The 2026 Kia Sorento remains one of the strongest values in the midsize 3-row SUV market. Just-right sized for many families, the Sorento strikes a good balance of size, modern looks, and technology. With flexible seating for up to seven people, the Sorento is easy to configure to meet most families’ needs.
Here are our three favorite things about the 2026 Kia Sorento.
1. Modern Technology
The Sorento features a 12.3-inch infotainment display that lets you control the cabin environment via its intuitive touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are also standard, while all but the base LX model have wireless device charging. Traveling these days might mean you need to plug in a phone or tablet, and the Sorento has multiple USB ports across all three rows, so no one needs to fight for a connection.
If you want a little more tech, upper trims include built-in navigation, a Bose audio system, and navigation-based adaptive cruise control that restarts from a stop. Even when well-optioned, the Sorento remains a bargain compared to other SUVs with similar space and features.
2. Multiple Engine Options
We always like to see variety under the hood, so we love that the Kia Sorento has four distinct engine options. The standard 191-horsepower 4-cylinder engine is affordable and good on gas, returning up to 26 combined mpg with front-wheel drive (FWD).
If fuel efficiency is a priority, then consider the Sorento Hybrid, which averages up to 37 mpg combined. There’s also a plug-in hybrid option with a 31-mile all-electric range, but it’s the most expensive version of the Sorento. For a little extra muscle (and cost), the lively turbocharged option delivers 281 hp and can tow up to 4,000 pounds.
3. Generous Standard Safety Tech
The Sorento features Kia’s Drive Wise safety suite, which includes automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, blind-spot warnings, driver attention warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. If you spring for the SX Prestige trim, you get the outstanding Highway Driving Assist 2 system. It’s not hands-free, but this is one of our favorite and most natural-feeling semi-autonomous highway driving systems we’ve tested.
More Kia Sorento
Read our full review of the Kia Sorento to find this week’s Fair Purchase Price, or see Sorento models for sale near you.
