2022 Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento is a compelling substitute for the larger Kia Telluride. Both Kia models are handsome and have three rows, but adults won't want to spend much time in the Sorento's far-back seats, and when those seats are upright they limit its cargo capacity. Keep the third row stowed, however, and its nicely appointed cabin becomes a comfortable place for a small family. Unlike the Telluride, the Sorento is available as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, which help maximize fuel efficiency. No matter what's providing the motivation, the Kia has a smooth ride and satisfying handling characteristics.

Fuel

The Sorento with the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder is estimated to earn up to 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter four is rated up to 22 mpg city and 29 highway. The hybrid Sorento is the most fuel efficient with estimates of 39 mpg city and 35 highway. The plug-in hybrid has a combined rating of 79 MPGe, but its city and highway estimates are listed at 35 and 33 mpg, respectively. Kia also claims the PHEV can travel up to 32 miles on electricity alone on a single charge. Once we have the chance to run these powertrains on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, we can evaluate the SUV's real-world mpg.

Engine

The Sorento has a wide selection of engine options and is available with front- or all-wheel drive. A 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine is standard and a 281-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is available too. Both pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid model uses a six-speed automatic. We drove a top-of-the-line SX trim with the turbo four and appreciated its noticeable thrust, but we wish the powertrain felt more responsive off the line. The same model delivered poised handling, a nicely isolated ride, and firm brake-pedal feedback. The eco-friendly Sorento hybrid features the combination of a turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder gas engine and a 44.0-kW electric motor that together generate 227 horsepower. The plug-in version of the hybrid features the same engine and transmission, but it makes a combined 261 horsepower and has a larger 66.9-kW electric motor and is all-wheel drive only. When equipped with the towing package, the Sorento can pull up to 3500 pounds.