2025 Kia Sorento Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Kia Sorento has stepped into the market as a solid choice in the crowded midsize SUV arena. Now, this isn’t just any three-row crossover—it finds its own sweet spot, sitting right in between compact and midsize categories. What does that mean? Well, you get a bit more room than what you’d find in a Honda CR-V or a Toyota RAV4, but without the bulkiness of larger three-row SUVs like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. It’s got some stiff competition too, like the Volkswagen Tiguan, Mitsubishi Outlander, and of course, its bigger brother, the Kia Telluride.

When you look at how the Sorento stacks up against the Telluride, it’s pretty intriguing. Sure, both vehicles offer three rows of seating, but the Sorento has a smaller footprint and comes with a bunch of different powertrain options, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. This really appeals to a different kind of buyer. The Telluride is all about maximizing space and that premium vibe, while the Sorento is more about being versatile and efficient.

Moving into the luxury space, the Sorento holds its own against the base models of the Acura RDX and Lexus RX. It packs in similar features but at a friendlier price point. And let us tell you, those higher trims like the SX Prestige X-Line come with some really nice touches, making it a great pick for folks eyeing entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2025 model is carrying on with the refreshed design we saw in 2024. It’s got this bold front fascia that nods to the larger Telluride without trying to copy it. The lineup is diverse, going from the budget-friendly LX trim all the way up to the off-road-ready X-Pro variant, with prices ranging from roughly $33,365 to $48,765.

But beyond just where it fits in the market, the real beauty of the Sorento is its versatility. It can be your everyday commuter or a reliable family hauler, and with that X-Pro trim, it can even tackle some off-road adventures. When you mix this kind of adaptability with Kia’s solid warranty coverage, it makes the Sorento a tempting choice for anyone looking for maximum utility in a nicely sized package.

The base engine is a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder that puts out 191 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a regular eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive is standard, but hey, you can opt for all-wheel drive if you want.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more oomph, there’s a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out a whopping 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. This engine teams up with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is a big change from the usual automatic in the base model. The dual-clutch setup means quicker shifts and better efficiency, but just a heads up—some folks might take a bit of time getting used to how it handles at lower speeds.

Performance-wise, this turbocharged engine is no slouch. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.0 seconds for the front-wheel-drive version. That’s quick for its class! But, you know, there’s always a catch—the fuel economy isn’t as great. The EPA says you’re looking at around 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, and in real life, you might see combined numbers closer to 20-22 mpg.

On the other hand, the base engine, while decent for everyday driving, might leave you planning a bit more when it comes to passing on the highway. It hits 0-60 mph in roughly 9.6 seconds, showing it’s more about efficiency than speed. But hey, at least it does better on gas, with EPA ratings of up to 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

Towing capacity? It changes a bit depending on the trim. If you go for the X-Pro trim, you can tow up to 4,000 pounds when it’s properly equipped—that’s a nice bump from the standard turbocharged model’s 3,500 pounds and the base engine’s 2,000 pounds.

About the drivetrain – It’s refined overall. The standard powertrain gives you smooth acceleration, even if it’s not lightning-fast. But the turbocharged version? It really delivers its power with a bit more authority. The dual-clutch transmission in those models might hesitate a little at low speeds, which is common for this kind of system, but once you get going, those shifts are quick and sharp, making your drive more enjoyable.

If you’re eyeing the all-wheel drive models, you’ll find they come with a torque-vectoring system that can send power where it’s needed between the front and rear axles. The X-Pro trim even throws in a center-locking differential, which is great for tackling tough conditions. This setup shines when the weather turns bad or if you decide to explore some light off-roading. So, there’s a lot to consider with the Sorento!

The Sorento’s braking system demonstrates considerable thought in its engineering and execution. All models feature four-wheel disc brakes, with ventilated rotors in the front and solid rotors in the rear. This setup provides consistent stopping power and a good pedal feel across various driving conditions.

When you first hit the brakes, the response is gradual and easy to control. This means you can make smooth stops during your everyday drives without much fuss. Plus, the brake pedal offers solid feedback, which boosts your confidence, especially when you need to brake a bit more forcefully. And honestly, considering the size and weight of the Sorento, that’s pretty impressive.

Now, on to the tech side of things. The brake system comes equipped with standard electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. These work together with the anti-lock braking system to help keep everything stable when you have to stop suddenly. You won’t even notice these systems kicking in during regular driving—they just work seamlessly.

If you opt for the higher trim levels, you get larger front brake rotors. This means better thermal capacity, which is a huge plus if you’re pushing the vehicle in tougher driving situations. And if you’ve got an all-wheel-drive model, the brake-based torque vectoring system is a neat feature. It improves cornering stability by applying brake pressure to individual wheels as needed.

Here’s something handy: the auto-hold function available on the higher trims is super useful in stop-and-go traffic. Once you activate it, it keeps the brake pressure on after you’ve come to a stop, so you can take your foot off the pedal until you’re ready to move again. It engages and disengages smoothly, which is great for convenience and doesn’t compromise safety at all.

For those X-Pro models, there’s some specific brake tuning done to match the all-terrain tires and their off-road capabilities. This includes tweaking the ABS settings to better manage loose surfaces while still delivering solid stopping power on regular paved roads.

The Sorento nails it when it comes to steering—it’s a great mix of comfort and engagement. With the electric power-assisted steering, you get this nice, precise response that feels just right, especially when you’re cruising on the highway. It’s all about that relaxed vibe, you know? As you pick up speed, the steering effort naturally increases, giving you the right feedback without feeling too heavy.

About the suspension—it uses a MacPherson strut design up front and a multi-link setup in the back. This combination does wonders for smoothing out those bumpy roads while keeping the car steady when you’re taking sharp turns. They’ve tuned it to be a bit sporty, but don’t worry, it’s not so stiff that you lose comfort.

Ride quality can change a bit based on the wheel size and trim level. If you’re rolling with the 17-inch wheels, like on the X-Pro, you’re going to feel the smoothest ride. On the other hand, if you opt for the 20-inch wheels, you might give up a little comfort for better handling. But no matter which models you choose, they all handle different road surfaces well—just a heads up, though: some road noise does sneak into the cabin when you hit highway speeds.

Speaking of trims, the X-Line and X-Pro have a special suspension setup that raises the ground clearance and tweaks the damping rates. This makes a huge difference, especially when you’re tackling rougher terrain, while still keeping things comfy. Plus, don’t worry—this extra height doesn’t really mess with how it handles on smooth roads.

As for body roll, it’s surprisingly well-controlled for a vehicle of this size and height. You know, during quick turns, the Sorento stays composed, and its reactions are predictable, which is reassuring. The way the suspension is tuned keeps head toss and those other annoying motions to a minimum, so your passengers can actually relax.

Special attention has been paid to the front suspension geometry to minimize torque steer in the more powerful turbocharged models, particularly in front-wheel drive configurations. This engineering consideration helps maintain a consistent steering feel under acceleration.

The 2025 Sorento has a variety of tire options that depend on the trim level and how you’re planning to use the vehicle. For the base models, you’ll find 235/65R17 all-season tires. These are solid in terms of providing comfort, keeping noise down, and handling different weather conditions. They give you predictable handling and decent performance when it’s wet outside.

Now, if you step it up to the luxury trims, you’ll get 235/55R19 tires. These tires offer better handling and look a bit more upscale. With the bigger wheels and lower-profile tires, you can expect more precise steering, but just keep in mind, that you might feel a bit less comfortable on bumpy roads. Still, they do a great job in all seasons and give you more grip when the weather’s nice.

As for the top-of-the-line models, except for the X-Pro, they roll on 255/45R20 tires. This setup amps up the handling, giving you a sporty feel with a better cornering grip and steering response. Sure, the wider tires help with stability when you’re going fast, but you might notice a bit more road noise compared to those smaller wheel/tire combos.

The X-Pro trim is a whole different story with its 245/60R17 all-terrain tires. These tires really boost the vehicle’s off-road capability, thanks to their rugged design that enhances traction and durability. They’ve got those aggressive shoulder blocks that help grip loose surfaces. While they’re fantastic off the beaten path, they do tend to be a bit louder on the road and can slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to the regular all-season tires.

Continental is behind many of the original tires that come with the Sorento, using specific compounds and tread patterns that suit its various needs. Plus, the tire pressure monitoring system is a handy feature, giving you individual pressure readings for all four tires, so you can keep everything running smoothly.

When it comes to tire wear, there’s a noticeable difference among the options. Generally, the all-season tires last longer than the performance-focused ones on those larger wheels. And don’t forget about the X-Pro’s all-terrain tires—they’re built tough and hold up well, even with that more aggressive tread.

The interior of the 2025 Sorento marks a big leap in terms of design and material quality. You’ve got this dashboard layout that stretches out horizontally, and it’s pretty much dominated by a panoramic display that features two 12.3-inch screens—one for the instrument cluster and the other for infotainment. This modern setup gives the cabin a premium, tech-savvy vibe that definitely boosts its overall appeal.

When it comes to materials, there’s a lot of thought put into what’s used throughout the interior. The upper dash is lined with soft-touch materials that have a nice grain to them, and even the lower sections, which use harder plastics, still feel decent. If you opt for the higher trim levels, you’ll be treated to genuine leather upholstery and some simulated wood trim that adds a cozy touch to the overall look of the cabin. Plus, the X-Line and X-Pro models come with unique interior accents that play up their rugged character.

The center console is sleek, but there’s a bit of a head-scratcher with its switchable control panel. This thing toggles between climate and audio controls, which means you have to take an extra step to switch functions. It looks great—very elegant with crisp displays and touch-sensitive surfaces—but, honestly, it might be more about style than practicality when you’re using it every day.

Ambient lighting, available on higher trims, enhances the interior’s premium feel during nighttime driving. The lighting is tastefully integrated into the cabin architecture, highlighting design elements without appearing overly dramatic. The available panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, making the interior feel more spacious and upscale.

The gauge cluster is pretty nifty too; it offers a bunch of display configurations, so drivers can focus on the info that matters most to them. The graphics are sharp and easy to read, with smooth animations that hit the mark when it comes to premium tech vibes. And if you have the head-up display, it gives you important info right in your line of sight, so you don’t have to take your eyes off the road.

As for the seats, upholstery varies depending on the trim level. You’ve got everything from tough cloth in the base models to luxurious quilted leather in the higher-end ones. The seat designs are not just comfortable; they also showcase cool stitch patterns and perforations that make them visually appealing. If you go for the second-row captain’s chairs, available on some trims, they echo the front seat design, creating a nice flow throughout the cabin. It all comes together nicely, giving it a cohesive and stylish look.

The 2025 Sorento nails that mix of modern Kia design with some standout features that make it pop in a sea of crossovers out there. Up front, it shows off a bold take on Kia’s famous “tiger nose” grille, and it’s flanked by some cool LED lights. Those daytime running lights? They’ve got this neat vertical stack look with four projector units, which definitely gives it a unique vibe.

When you look at the side, you can see there’s a lot of thought put into the proportions. The hood is pretty long, and the roofline has a gentle slope that cleverly hides the fact that it’s a three-row vehicle. And that little upward curve at the C-pillar? Just adds a bit of flair without messing with how well you can see out the back. The body sculpting is subtle too—not all those overdone curves you see on some other models.

If you check out the different trims, you’ll notice some cool exterior features that set them apart. The X-Line and X-Pro trims come with their own unique wheel designs, beefier bumpers, and special accents outside. Speaking of the X-Pro, it’s got these 17-inch wheels with rugged all-terrain tires that totally boost its off-road cred.

The LED lights are a big deal for the Sorento’s sleek look. The front signature lighting stretches all the way across, while the back LED taillights have this distinctive pattern that makes it super easy to spot at night. And if you go for the higher trims, you’ll even get extra LED fog lights built into the lower bumper.

As for paint options, there are a bunch of classy choices, like the eye-catching Jungle Green that changes its look depending on the light. Plus, the gloss black trim around the windows and roof rails gives it that upscale feel, fitting right in with what’s hot in car design these days.

Turning to the back, it’s just as interesting, with a sculpted tailgate, a roof spoiler that’s neat and tidy, and exhaust outlets on the turbo models that look well-integrated. The lower bumper has skid plate-style details that hint at capability but without being too in-your-face about it. Overall, it’s a well-rounded design that’s easy on the eyes.

The front seats offer excellent support with multiple adjustment options, including an available thigh extension for the driver’s seat on higher trims. Both heated and ventilated functions provide effective temperature management, with multiple intensity levels to suit different conditions.

Now, about the climate control—it works well, but you might need a little time to get used to the interface. The dual-zone automatic system keeps the temperatures steady, and those rear vents? They really help circulate air throughout the cabin. If you go for the fancier trims, you’ll also get heated second-row seats and extra climate controls in the back, which is a nice touch for your passengers.

As for storage, you won’t be disappointed. There are thoughtfully designed door pockets, a wireless phone charging pad, and various compartments in the console. The center console even has a customizable storage area with dividers you can remove if you need more space. Plus, the backs of the front seats have mesh pockets for the folks riding in the back.

When it comes to noise, the Sorento has some good measures in place. The windshield and front side windows use acoustic glass to help keep wind and road noise at bay. That said, you might still hear some tire noise creeping in, especially if you go with the bigger wheels or the X-Pro’s all-terrain tires. They’ve added extra sound insulation in the wheel wells and floor pan to help with all that, too.

The power liftgate, standard on most trims, includes hands-free operation and adjustable height settings. This proves particularly useful when accessing the cargo area with full hands. The system also includes a close-and-lock function that secures the vehicle with a single button press.

The Sorento’s tech features are impressive, starting with its dual 12.3-inch display setup. It offers loads of customization options and presents information clearly. The digital instrument cluster is pretty cool, with different themes and layouts that let you choose what info you want front and center based on how you’re driving.

Speaking of tech, the infotainment system is quite powerful. It responds quickly to your inputs and has smooth animations. The layout is user-friendly, with big touch targets and a logical menu structure. Plus, it integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly, though some folks might miss the physical controls from older models.

If you’re worried about visibility, the available digital rear-view mirror gives you a clear view behind, which is especially helpful when the third row is in use or when you’ve got cargo piled high. It performs well in different lighting conditions too, with minimal glare at night.

The Bose premium audio system, standard on higher trims, delivers impressive sound quality with good spatial imaging and strong bass response. The system includes 12 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, creating an immersive listening experience for all passengers.

Voice recognition capabilities show significant improvement, with good natural language understanding and quick response times. The system can control various vehicle functions, including climate settings, audio selection, and navigation input, reducing the need for manual interactions while driving.

The connected car features are pretty neat. You can start the vehicle from your smartphone, check its status, and even send navigation destinations directly to it. Plus, it supports over-the-air updates, which means you might get new features and improvements down the line.

The 2025 Sorento really shows how much Kia cares about safety. They’ve packed it with a whole bunch of features—both standard ones and some that you can opt for. At its core, the vehicle’s structure is built with high-strength steel and has been designed with crumple zones that work to absorb impact forces well.

When it comes to driver assistance, you’ve got standard features like forward collision warning that can detect pedestrians and cyclists. This works together with automatic emergency braking, which is a big plus for accident prevention. What’s nice is that this system is pretty sensitive, but not so much that it freaks you out with false alarms. This makes it more likely that drivers will actually keep it on.

The lane-keeping assistance and lane departure warnings? They’re impressive too. The lane-keeping system nudges the steering just enough to help you stay in your lane without being annoying about it. Plus, you can choose whether you want to get alerts through sound or vibration, which is cool because it lets you pick what works best for you.

The blind spot monitoring system includes an innovative camera-based display that shows a video feed of the blind spot in the instrument cluster when the turn signal is activated. This feature proves particularly useful in urban environments and during lane changes, providing an additional layer of safety beyond traditional warning lights.

For those who go for the higher trims, there’s the Highway Driving Assist 2.0. This system puts together adaptive cruise control, better lane centering, and even adjusts your speed based on navigation info. It’s great on marked highways, helping to cut down on driver fatigue during those long drives while still keeping safety in check.

The 360-degree camera system is a game-changer for low-speed maneuvers. You get different views, including a top-down look. The cameras are high-res and work smoothly, giving you clear images, and those dynamic guidelines help you figure out where your vehicle is headed.

The Sorento showcases its role as a family vehicle that’s got a bit of a sporty edge. The turbocharged engine? It kicks in when you need it, yet it still manages to be efficient during everyday driving. Power delivery is nice and smooth, with hardly any turbo lag most of the time, which is a plus.

Now, if you’re looking at the turbo models, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission takes a little getting used to, especially at lower speeds. But honestly, once you get the hang of it, those shifts are quick and smooth, helping you get the most out of that engine. On the other hand, the base models come with a traditional automatic that feels a bit more familiar, but you do miss out on some of that snappy responsiveness.

When it comes to handling, the Sorento leans toward the sporty side without sacrificing comfort. You’ll notice the body roll is kept in check while cornering, and the suspension does a great job of soaking up those bumps in the road. As for the steering, it gives you decent feedback and feels just right, though some folks might think it’s a bit light when you’re cruising on the highway.

About the X-Pro trim—it’s surprising how well it handles off-road situations for a family crossover. Thanks to the extra ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and that center-locking differential, it really holds its own when you venture off the beaten path. It’s especially handy in tough weather or on rough roads.

Visibility is generally good; the A-pillars are relatively slim, and those large side windows really help. Plus, there are blind-spot cameras and a 360-degree view system that makes it easier to navigate tight spaces or switch lanes without too much hassle.

Road noise can be a bit of a mixed bag depending on the trim and tires you choose. If you go for the 17-inch wheels, you’ll find they do a great job of keeping noise levels down. But with the 20-inch wheels and the X-Pro’s all-terrain tires, you might notice it gets a bit louder at highway speeds. Wind noise, though? That stays pretty well in check across all versions.

The second-row seating in the 2025 Sorento—it’s impressive when it comes to flexibility and comfort. If you opt for the models with captain’s chairs, you’re in for a treat. Those chairs come with individual armrests and a bunch of adjustments for reclining and moving back and forth.

Getting to the third row? Super easy! The second-row seats have this one-touch slide-and-fold feature that makes it a breeze. The captain’s chairs can slide forward quite a bit, and they stay stable, which opens up a nice path to the back row.

Now, if you’re sitting in the second row, you’ll be happy to find dedicated climate controls, USB ports right in the front seatbacks, and even optional window sunshades. The materials used are just as nice as those in the front seats, keeping that premium vibe going throughout the cabin.

For those who go with lower trims, the bench seat option still keeps things comfy for three passengers. Plus, the 60/40 split allows you to mix and match cargo and passenger space pretty easily.

When it comes to getting into the third row, it’s definitely easier with the captain’s chairs, but just a heads up—this means you can only fit six passengers instead of seven. And honestly, the third row is probably best for smaller folks or kids, especially if you’re not using it all the time.

For storage, second-row passengers have some nice options like seatback pockets, door bins, and a center console with cupholders if you’ve got the captain’s chairs. Oh, and USB-C ports are right there for charging your devices, which is super handy.

The cargo area of the Sorento is well thought out, and packed with practical features that make it super useful. So, when all the seats are in their place, you’re looking at about 13 cubic feet of cargo space. But if you fold down the third row, that jumps up to around 45 cubic feet, and if you fold down both rear rows, you can max out at a whopping 76 cubic feet!

Getting into the cargo area is a breeze, thanks to a low load height and a nice, wide opening. If you opt for the higher trims, there’s even a power liftgate that lets you operate it hands-free. Plus, it has adjustable height settings, which is great for fitting into different garage heights or just for your own preferences. And when you fold those seats down, the load floor stays nice and flat, which is perfect for loading up longer items.

There are some clever storage solutions, too. You’ve got underfloor compartments that are great for stashing away the cargo cover or any emergency supplies you might need. They’ve also added tie-down points throughout the cargo area, which is super handy. And those bag hooks on the seatbacks? Just perfect for keeping your shopping bags or lighter items from rolling around.

When it comes to accessing the third row, the second-row seats are designed to fold and slide forward really easily. You can find the releases from both the cargo area and the door opening, which is convenient. It’s an intuitive setup that doesn’t take much effort—definitely a plus for families with kids who are always hopping in and out of that third row.

About those third-row seats, they fold flat into the floor when you don’t need them. This creates a nice flat cargo space without having to remove any parts. The 50/50 split is a big win, too, allowing for flexible configurations depending on whether you need to prioritize passengers or cargo. It’s all about making life a bit easier, right?

The 2025 Kia Sorento stands out as a great option across its lineup. Starting with the base LX trim, which kicks off at around $33,365, you get a bunch of impressive standard features. We’re talking wireless smartphone integration, advanced safety systems, and the flexibility of three rows. Not too shabby, right? It gives a good fight against both compact and midsize crossover competitors.

Now, if you bump up to the EX trim—priced at $39,465—you hit that sweet spot. It comes with a more powerful turbocharged engine, some nice synthetic leather upholstery, and a few extra convenience features. The value is still pretty solid here, especially when you consider all the features you get along with a stronger performance.

Then there are the X-Line and X-Pro variants. Sure, they come with a heftier price tag, but they bring along some extra capabilities and unique styling that might just be worth it. The X-Pro, in particular, is interesting since it gives you real off-road capability while still being practical for everyday use. That’s not something you see often in this segment.

Plus, you can’t overlook Kia’s warranty coverage. With 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage and a generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, it really sweetens the deal. Who doesn’t want peace of mind and potentially lower costs down the line compared to other brands?

When you stack the Sorento against the competition, its mix of features, performance, and versatility makes it a strong player in the crowded crossover market. Sure, there are rivals that might offer more space or better fuel efficiency, but not many can match the Sorento’s combination of three-row flexibility in a manageable size, along with various powertrain choices.

Ultimately, whether you decide to go for it hinges on what you need and what you prioritize. If you’re in the market for a versatile family vehicle that’s packed with premium features and has reasonable dimensions, the Sorento is a fantastic choice. However, if you’re after maximum space or top-notch fuel efficiency, you might want to check out some alternatives, like Kia’s own Telluride or even the hybrid versions of the Sorento.