2025 Kia Sorento Review: A Stylish, Fuel-Efficient, and Family-Friendly Midsize SUV
Looking for a well-rounded midsize SUV that offers performance, space, and cutting-edge tech without the premium price tag? The 2025 Kia Sorento might just be the perfect fit. It’s consistently ranked among the top midsize SUVs for its bold styling, hybrid powertrain options, family-friendly layout, and smart safety technology. Whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or hauling the kids to school, the Kia Sorento delivers a confident, versatile driving experience.
In this in-depth Kia Sorento review, we’ll explore what makes this SUV a favorite in its class—covering its design, performance, interior features, safety technology, hybrid fuel efficiency, and how it compares to other SUVs like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport.
Kia Sorento Exterior Design: Bold and Sophisticated
The 2025 Kia Sorento makes a strong impression at first glance. With a bold front grille, sleek LED headlights, and crisp body lines, this midsize SUV carries a premium look that rivals luxury competitors. It’s available in eye-catching colors and offers sporty trim levels like the Kia Sorento X-Line and X-Pro, which add rugged flair and off-road capability.
- LED daytime running lights and tail lamps
- 18” to 20” wheels depending on trim
- Sportier accents on X-Line and SX Prestige trims
Kia Sorento Interior: Comfort, Space, and Versatility
Inside, the Kia Sorento SUV feels more refined than its price suggests. The cabin is thoughtfully designed with soft-touch materials, premium stitching, and available leather upholstery. It comfortably seats up to seven passengers, with available second-row captain’s chairs for added comfort.
- Up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space
- Available panoramic sunroof
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Wireless phone charging and multiple USB ports
- Smart storage compartments for convenience
Infotainment and Technology: Smart and Intuitive
Tech-savvy drivers will appreciate the Sorento’s user-friendly infotainment system. Even the base Kia Sorento LX comes with a responsive 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. Upper trims upgrade to a 10.25-inch display with navigation and a digital instrument cluster.
- 10.25” HD touchscreen display (EX and above)
- 12.3” digital gauge cluster (SX and SX Prestige)
- Bose® premium sound system (SX Prestige)
- Kia Connect for remote start and vehicle status via app
- Surround-view monitor and parking sensors
Kia Sorento Engine Options and Performance
One of the biggest advantages of the Kia Sorento is its variety of engine choices. From fuel-efficient hybrids to turbocharged power, the Sorento offers a powertrain for every type of driver.
Available engines for the 2025 Kia Sorento:
- 2.5L 4-cylinder engine (191 hp) – Standard on LX and S trims
- 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (281 hp) – Standard on SX and SX Prestige
- 1.6L Turbo Hybrid (227 hp combined) – Available on EX and SX Prestige Hybrid
- Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) (261 hp and 32 miles of electric range) – Available on SX Prestige PHEV
Need confidence in tough conditions? Available All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and multiple drive modes (Sport, Eco, Comfort, Snow) make the Sorento adaptable to changing weather and terrain.
Fuel Economy: Efficient Driving Made Easy
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Kia Sorento shines—especially the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. You don’t have to sacrifice space or performance to save at the pump.
| Engine | Fuel Economy (est.) |
|---|---|
| 2.5L I-4 | 24 MPG city / 29 MPG hwy |
| 2.5L Turbo I-4 | 22 MPG city / 29 MPG hwy |
| Hybrid (1.6L Turbo) | 39 MPG city / 35 MPG hwy |
| PHEV (1.6L Turbo) | 32 miles electric + 34 MPG combined |
Advanced Safety Features: Confidence on Every Drive
The standard Kia Drive Wise suite offers a long list of driver-assist features—many of which are optional or unavailable in competing SUVs.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist
- Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Highway Driving Assist
- Safe Exit Assist
Trim Levels and Pricing for the 2025 Kia Sorento
The 2025 Sorento offers a wide variety of trims to suit different needs and budgets. From value-packed base models to fully loaded hybrids, there’s something for everyone.
Kia Sorento Trim Levels:
- LX – Starting around $31,000
- S – Adds more tech and style
- EX – Offers hybrid option, power liftgate, and upgraded interior
- SX – Premium audio, larger screen, and panoramic sunroof
- SX Prestige – Leather seating, surround-view camera, advanced driver aids
- X-Line & X-Pro – Rugged styling and enhanced off-road capability
- Hybrid & PHEV – Available in EX and SX Prestige trims
Kia Sorento vs. the Competition
See how the Kia Sorento compares to its top midsize SUV rivals:
| Model | Seats | Hybrid Option | Starting Price | Notable Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sorento | 6–7 | Yes (Hybrid & PHEV) | ~$31,000 | Multiple powertrains, tech |
| Toyota Highlander | 7–8 | Yes | ~$39,000 | Larger third row |
| Honda Passport | 5 | No | ~$41,000 | Strong V6, off-road trim |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 5–6 | Yes | ~$34,000 | Luxury feel, close cousin |
| Ford Edge | 5 | No | ~$39,000 | Turbo engine, performance |
Real-World Versatility: Everyday SUV with Adventure Spirit
The Kia Sorento isn't just great on paper—it excels in real life. Here’s what owners love most:
- Spacious third-row seating for growing families
- Easy-to-use infotainment system for all ages
- Comfortable ride for daily driving and long trips
- Confident towing capability (up to 3,500 lbs)
- Rugged trims like X-Line AWD for outdoor adventures
Why Choose the Kia Sorento in 2025?
- ✅ Stylish design that stands out
- ✅ Hybrid and plug-in hybrid options for better fuel economy
- ✅ Spacious, premium interior with up to 7-passenger seating
- ✅ Top-tier safety features included standard
- ✅ Value-driven pricing across all trims
Final Thoughts: Is the Kia Sorento Right for You?
The 2025 Kia Sorento is more than just a smart purchase—it’s a versatile companion built for life. Whether you’re a family looking for space, a commuter looking for efficiency, or a weekend warrior who loves the outdoors, the Sorento rises to meet your needs.
It’s efficient. It’s spacious. It’s safe. And most importantly—it’s ready.
Looking for Kia Sorento deals near you? Visit your local dealership or explore Kia.com to build and price your Sorento today.