2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid
2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid Review
- Impressive number of standard and optional features
- Lots of second- and third-row legroom for the class
- Sharp-looking and easy-to-use infotainment system
- Not so compact anymore
- All-wheel drive is unavailable
- New hybrid powertrain for the redesigned Sorento
- Gets an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined
- More interior room and new technology features
- Part of the fourth Sorento generation redesigned for 2021
The Kia Sorento has always tried to go above and beyond as one of the few small crossover SUVs with a third row of seats — even if the back row was pretty cramped. As a result, the Sorento has long led a fairly compromised life straddling the two- and three-row SUV segments. But Kia is determined to make the small three-row SUV formula work. The redesigned 2021 Kia Sorento has more interior room and all-new powertrain choices, including a new hybrid.
The 2021 Sorento Hybrid pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 227 horsepower. The EPA estimates that it gets 37 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is a significant 11 mpg more than a regular Sorento (with front-wheel drive and the 2.5-liter engine). This is a bit less what the EPA estimates for a Honda CR-V Hybrid (38 mpg combined) or a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (40 mpg), but it's certainly competitive.
Kia will also offer a plug-in hybrid version later in the model year. It uses the same gasoline engine but adds a more powerful electric motor to churn out 261 horsepower. With the plug-in's 13.8 kWh of battery capacity, Kia estimates it can travel up to 30 miles on all-electric power before switching over to regular hybrid operation.
Overall, we're intrigued by the new Sorento Hybrid. It has a mix of luxury, space and high fuel economy that rival hybrid SUVs — such as Ford Escape Hybrid Honda CR-V Hybrid and Toyota Venza — can't quite match. Check back in the coming months for additional impressions once we are able to get a Sorento Hybrid in for a full evaluation.
Which Sorento Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?
Kia Sorento Hybrid models
The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid is a small SUV with three rows of seating that can seat up to six people. (The second row's seating consists of captain's chairs.) It's available in two trim levels: S and EX. Both are powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired to an electric motor and a six-speed automatic transmission. Combined output is 227 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard but, unlike most other hybrid crossover SUVs, the Sorento Hybrid is not available with all-wheel drive.
2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid pricing
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid.
Trending topics in reviews
- fuel efficiency
- safety
- spaciousness
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Safety
Our experts’ favorite Sorento Hybrid safety features:
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Accelerates and decelerates the car automatically, keeping a user-defined distance between the Sorento and the car in front.
- Lane Following Assist
- Keeps the Sorento in the middle of its lane at low speeds. The upgraded Highway Driving Assist does the same at higher speeds.
- Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Projects an image of the Sorento's blind spot onto the digital instrument panel when the turn signal is flipped on.
Kia Sorento Hybrid vs. the competition
2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid
2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Kia Sorento Hybrid vs. Honda CR-V Hybrid
Honda recently introduced a hybrid version of one of its most popular models, the CR-V. It's a bit smaller than the Sorento and doesn't offer a third row, but the Honda is less expensive and offers standard all-wheel drive, a feature that's not available on the Sorento. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Honda CR-V Hybrid.
Kia Sorento Hybrid vs. Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford Escape Hybrid is a compelling alternative to the Sorento. It lacks a third row, but otherwise it's spacious and comfortable. It's also available with all-wheel drive (something you can't get on the Sorento) and gets slightly better fuel economy. But the Sorento is the better buy if you want a third row or more interior space and refinement than the Ford provides.
Kia Sorento Hybrid vs. Toyota Venza
Toyota recently brought back the Venza after a few years on hiatus. This time around, the Venza is only available as a hybrid. It also comes with standard all-wheel drive, a boon for those who live in wet or snowy climates. It doesn't offer a third row like the Sorento, but we found the interior to be comfortable, spacious and nearly on the same level as the cabins of some luxury vehicles.
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FAQ
Is the Kia Sorento Hybrid a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid:
- New hybrid powertrain for the redesigned Sorento
- Gets an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined
- More interior room and new technology features
- Part of the fourth Sorento generation redesigned for 2021
Is the Kia Sorento Hybrid reliable?
Is the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid?
The least-expensive 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid is the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid S 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $33,590.
Other versions include:
- S 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A) which starts at $33,590
- EX 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 6A) which starts at $36,590