Used 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid is a midsize crossover that seats six and saves fuel. Yes, Kia makes another midsize 3-row crossover, the popular Telluride. So why buy the Kia Sorento instead of the Telluride? For a start, there isn’t a hybrid version of Kia’s largest SUV. The Sorento is slightly smaller and a touch more athletic because of it.

Based on an all-new platform, the 2021 Sorento Hybrid is part of a wider lineup whose fourth generation debuts this year. The rest of the 2021 Sorento range is reviewed separately. And a plug-in hybrid version (PHEV) is due later in the year.

The combined energy of a turbocharged gasoline engine and an electric motor gives the 2021 Sorento Hybrid an enjoyable amount of thrust. The push from the electric motor is especially noticeable when accelerating off the line.

One thing that’s much more subtle, though, is the way the whole system flows between its modes. There’s no sudden jolt when the engine restarts. The suspension is also jolt-free while feeling simultaneously stable. And Kia has given the Sorento’s steering a well-judged weight.

A neat dashboard with a design that might be described as “robust” forms the focal point of the 2021 Sorento Hybrid’s cabin. That’s not a criticism. The whole thing is easy on the eye and looks like it belongs in something more expensive than the average Kia.

This hybrid model comes with a pair of captain’s chairs in the second row. With two seats in the third row, the total occupant count adds up to six. How much room is in the Sorento Hybrid’s third row? Not that much, as it turns out. It has just 29.6 inches of rear legroom. Compare that with the second row’s 40.7 inches.

Cargo space runs from 12.6 cubic feet to 38.5 to 75.5 cubic feet, depending on how many seats are folded. If this is an important consideration, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid can take more.

Every new Kia design seems to convey the company’s growing confidence. The 2021 Sorento has an assertive presence that looks more SUV than mere crossover.

Alloy wheels (17-inch) are standard. The S model has a black grille mesh; the slightly posher EX gives that black mesh a gloss finish, which perfectly matches the rear spoiler.

You can order both versions with either Runaway Red and Snow White Pearl premium paint colors, each costing $445.

SECOND-ROW CAPTAIN’S CHAIRS
Having a pair of these for the second seating row provides a luxury touch right at the Sorento Hybrid’s entry level. They’re more comfortable than regular seats and provide easier access to the third row.

6-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
A lot of hybrid vehicles, and some non-hybrid vehicles, use a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Car company accountants like them because they’re relatively cheap. Driving enthusiasts don’t because they’re slow to respond and have a tendency to drone. We realize that keen drivers are not likely to have a Kia Sorento Hybrid as their dream ride, but most people will find its 6-speed automatic transmission to add some satisfaction to life behind the wheel.

The non-hybrid 2021 Sorento starts off at a lower trim level, so the S trim hybrid model already comes with an advantage. Its standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, roof rails, keyless entry/start, dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated/power-adjustable front seats (10-way for the driver, 4-way for the passenger), plus 50/50 split/folding 2nd-row and 3rd-row seats.

An 8-inch touchscreen controls the 2021 Sorento’s infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and eight USB ports.

In the safety department are rear parking sensors, rear occupant alert, Safe Exit Assist, lane-keeping assistance, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams.

The higher of the two 2021 Sorento Hybrid trims, EX, adds LED fog lights, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, height-adjustable powered tailgate, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, front parking sensors, and a more sophisticated forward-collision avoidance system.

Both versions are eligible for a few extras such as crossbars for the roof rails, cargo cover, side steps, self-dimming rearview mirror with a remote garage door opener, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The drivetrain for the 2021 Sorento Hybrid consists of a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine, an electric motor (running off a lithium-ion polymer battery), and a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is the only configuration.

Towing capacity for this hybrid variant is 1,653 pounds. The regular Sorento can pull up to 3,500 pounds.

Turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4
Permanent magnet synchronous electric motor
227 horsepower (total system output)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 39/35 mpg