2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid Review

Kia redesigned its popular Sorento SUV model last year, introducing it with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an available turbocharged four-cylinder and turbocharged hybrid powertrains. Now, for the 2022 model year, the Sorento lineup adds a plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) version rated by the EPA to deliver 32 miles of electric driving range and 34 mpg in combined driving when used as a gas-electric hybrid.

The new Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is based on the Sorento Hybrid. Kia swaps in a more powerful 66.9-kW electric motor and a bigger 13.8-kWh battery pack but keeps the turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline-fired four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Kia also adds a standard torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. The result is a bump to 261 horsepower, 34 more ponies than you get in the Sorento Hybrid. Torque remains the same at 258 lb-ft.

Despite its more powerful engine and larger battery pack, the upgraded PHEV powertrain has minimal impact on interior space. According to Kia's numbers, you'll lose just a bit of second-row legroom. Otherwise, this three-row SUV's passenger volume and cargo space match the Sorento Hybrid equipped with the panoramic sunroof (an option available on both trims of the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid).

Few plug-in hybrid SUVs are available from mainstream brands, so the new Kia Sorento PHEV faces only a handful of potential rivals. The Kia's kissing cousin, the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid, is similarly outfitted but seats no more than five people. The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is also a five-seater, but it is more expensive than the Kia. Otherwise, your options are smaller compact models like the Toyota RAV4 Prime or pricier luxury alternatives such as the Volvo XC60 Recharge. Check out our test team's scoring and Expert Rating of the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid below to help you decide.

The 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is available in SX and SX Prestige trim levels. Each one has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, a 66.9-kW electric motor, and a 13.8-kWh battery pack. Together, these components produce 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission powers a standard torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system with a locking center differential. Standard equipment highlights are as follows: