The 2024 Kia Sorento is a midsize AWD SUV that has captured the attention of car enthusiasts and families alike. With its impressive blend of quality, practicality, and available performance, this SUV is an enticing option for those seeking a versatile and well-rounded vehicle.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the details of the 2024 Kia Sorento, exploring its key features, capabilities, and overall value proposition. Whether you’re in the market for a family-friendly SUV or simply seeking a capable and well-equipped on-road companion, the Sorento is certainly worth a closer look.
So, let’s dive in and uncover everything this midsize SUV has to offer.
A Versatile and Quality-Driven Small SUV
The 2024 Kia Sorento is a small SUV that offers an impressive level of versatility and quality. With seating for up to 7 passengers, the Sorento provides ample space for both passengers and cargo.
In fact, the Sorento offers more legroom in the second row than dedicated two-row SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Even the third-row seats are hospitable for adults, though access to them can be a bit of a squeeze. The interior quality is also noteworthy, with thoughtful detailing and premium touches throughout the cabin.
While some hard plastic surfaces are present, the Sorento still manages to feel well-built and upscale, especially in the higher trim levels. In terms of comfort, the Sorento delivers a mixed experience. The front seats are well-cushioned and provide heating, ventilation, and a good range of adjustments.
The second-row captain’s chairs (standard on higher trims) are firm yet supportive. However, the ride quality can be a bit jittery at lower speeds, likely due to the large 20-inch wheels on the test vehicle.
On the highway, the 2024 Kia Sorento’s ride is well-controlled, imparting a sense of stability and confidence. The dual-zone climate control system is efficient and easy to use, though the touch-sensitive buttons can be less responsive than traditional buttons.
Spacious Design for All Three Rows
The 2024 Kia Sorento defies its small SUV classification by offering an impressively spacious interior. Contrary to typical expectations, the Sorento provides ample room for adults in all three rows of seating.
In fact, the second-row legroom measures 41.7 inches, which is more than you’ll find in larger, dedicated two-row SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Even taller passengers will have plenty of space to stretch out and get comfortable.
The third-row seats, while a bit of a squeeze to access, are also quite hospitable for adults. With 31.7 inches of legroom, the third row can accommodate most passengers without significant compromise.
This is a notable achievement for a small three-row SUV. The Sorento’s generous interior dimensions translate to a versatile and accommodating cabin that can easily adapt to the needs of growing families or those with active lifestyles.
Interior Space and Accessibility: Ample Room in a Compact Frame
Despite its compact footprint, the 2024 Kia Sorento offers a surprisingly spacious and accessible interior. Getting in and out of the vehicle is an easy affair, thanks to the Sorento’s thoughtful design.
The ample-size windows and good sight lines throughout the cabin also contribute to the SUV’s overall sense of openness and visibility. The Sorento’s cargo capacity is another strong suit, with 12.6 cubic feet of space available with the third-row seats in use.
With the third row folded down, this expands to a more generous 38.5 to 45 cubic feet, depending on the position of the second-row seats. This is more than what you’d find in smaller two-row SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.
For those who need to haul bulky items, the Sorento’s towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds (on the X-Pro model) is also noteworthy, exceeding the capabilities of many other small three-row SUVs.
Technology and Driver Assistance Features for an Enhanced Ride
The 2024 Kia Sorento comes equipped with a range of advanced technology and driver assistance features that elevate the driving experience.
At the heart of the Sorento’s tech lineup is a new infotainment system featuring a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen display and a matching digital instrument cluster across all trim levels. This setup offers clear, responsive, and user-friendly controls that even those new to the Kia brand will have no trouble navigating.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity come standard, providing seamless smartphone integration without the hassle of cables. The available Bose audio system, while impressive, could use a bit of fine-tuning to find the sweet spot across a wide range of music genres.
Kia also offers an impressive suite of driver assistance technologies, including surround-view cameras, automatic lane changing, and enhanced forward collision mitigation. These systems work cohesively to provide a confident and stress-free driving experience, with no false alerts or sudden braking interventions.
Cargo and Storage Options for Everyday Practicality
In addition to its spacious interior, the 2024 Kia Sorento also excels in the practicality department, offering ample storage and cargo capacity to meet the needs of daily life. With the third-row seats in use, the Sorento provides 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which is decent for a smaller three-row SUV.
Fold down the third-row, and this expands to a more generous 38.5 to 45 cubic feet, depending on the position of the second-row seats. The Sorento’s interior storage is also well-thought-out, with ample and well-placed storage options in all three rows.
This includes convenient pockets, cubbies, and USB-C ports to keep your belongings organized and your devices charged on the go.
For those who need to tow, the Sorento with the turbocharged engine can handle up to 3,500 pounds, while the X-Pro model can tow up to an impressive 4,500 pounds – more than what is typically found in this class of small three-row SUVs.
2024 Kia Sorento Fuel Economy and Performance
The 2024 Kia Sorento offers a range of powertrain options to suit different driving needs and preferences. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the available 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers a more potent 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
When equipped with the turbocharged engine, the 2024 Kia Sorento is capable of delivering a spirited and smooth driving experience that is quite enjoyable for a small SUV. In terms of fuel economy, the Sorento with the turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive is estimated by the EPA to achieve 24 mpg combined.
During our mixed-driving evaluation, we achieved an impressive 25.2 mpg average, exceeding the EPA’s estimates. While not quite as frugal as the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, the Sorento’s fuel efficiency is still commendable, especially when considering its available power and performance capabilities.
Value and Warranty Coverage for Long-Term Peace of Mind
The 2024 Kia Sorento delivers excellent value for the money, with a well-equipped and well-built interior that belies its price point. Even at the higher trim levels, the Sorento manages to maintain a sense of premium quality, with thoughtful detailing and materials that create a cohesive and upscale cabin experience.
Kia’s industry-leading warranty coverage is another major selling point for the Sorento. The SUV comes standard with a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Additionally, the Sorento is backed by 5 years/60,000 miles of roadside assistance, providing long-term peace of mind for owners. This comprehensive warranty coverage is unmatched in the small SUV segment, further enhancing the Sorento’s value proposition.
Experience the Power of the Sorento’s Turbocharged Engine
For those seeking a more engaging driving experience, the 2024 Kia Sorento offers an optional 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers impressive power and performance.
Producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, this turbocharged powertrain provides a significant boost in straight-line acceleration, making the Sorento feel much more sprightly and eager than its base engine counterpart.
The smooth and seamless power delivery of the turbo engine is addictive, especially when paired with the SUV’s well-tuned handling characteristics. While the Sorento may not be the most thrilling small SUV to drive, the available turbocharged engine does lend it a heightened sense of fun and excitement that belies its family-friendly nature.
For those who want a bit more pep in their step without sacrificing the 2024 Kia Sorento’s everyday practicality, the turbo option is certainly worth a closer look.
Kia Sorento Trim Levels and Options for Every Driver’s Needs
The 2024 Kia Sorento is available in a variety of trim levels and configurations to cater to the diverse needs of SUV buyers. The lineup starts with the well-equipped LX model, which comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, and a host of driver assistance features.
Moving up the trim ladder, the S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige models offer increasingly more premium features, including turbocharged power, all-wheel drive, and advanced technology. For those seeking a bit more off-road capability, the Sorento X-Line and X-Pro trims provide a rugged twist, with unique exterior styling, all-terrain tires, and a raised ride height.
No matter which Sorento model you choose, you’re sure to find a configuration that matches your lifestyle and budget.
Final Words
The 2024 Kia Sorento is a truly impressive small SUV that excels in areas of space, comfort, technology, and overall value. With its versatile seating, generous cargo capacity, and available turbocharged power, the Sorento offers a compelling package for families and individuals alike.
Kia’s commitment to quality and its industry-leading warranty coverage further solidify the Sorento’s position as a top contender in the small SUV segment. Whether you’re in the market for a practical daily driver, a capable road-trip companion, or something in between, the 2024 Kia Sorento deserves a spot on your shopping list.
And don’t forget to keep visiting the Auto Freak website, as we’ll continue to provide the latest updates, insights, and in-depth analysis on this impressive midsize SUV and many other vehicles in the coming months. Stay tuned for more!
