We reviewed the Kia Sorento back in 2022 and came away feeling like the Sorento is one of the best bangs for the buck for 3-row SUVs. Not only is the Sorento priced well, but it’s one of the rare vehicles that feels a lot more expensive than it is.
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that slots in under the Telluride, but still offers up a third row for those that need it. Our tester is the 2023 Kia Sorento X-Line SX Prestige AWD, the range-topping model that starts at $43,690. The mid-line Sorento is the EX FWD, which starts at $35,990, and the entry-level Sorento LX starts at $30,090. All models are subject to a $1,325 destination charge.
That’s quite the spread in the Sorento base price across the lineup, but that means Kia has catered to all buyer demographics from a more basic (but still well-equipped) model, to the content-rich and upscale Sorento X-Line SX Prestige.
The interior features bold, contrasting rust-colored leather seats and door cards. The seats feature prominent diamond patterns on the bolsters, with a wood look veneer running across the dashboard into the door cards.
A 12.3″ user-customizable digital instrument cluster sits directly before the driver in the Sorento X-Line SX-Prestige, while a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen handles infotainment duties. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, with a wireless charger in the console. It is worth mentioning that larger phones with cases will not fit properly in the charger. Bose Premium Audio is also included.
The SX-Prestige also includes the Kia Drivewise package with a 360-degree surround view camera and blind spot monitor in the instrument cluster, which shows a camera view of the side of the car when the turn indicators are activated.
The Sorento X-Line SX Prestige trim level comes equipped with a strong 2.5-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft. of torque, which is combined with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
On the road, driving the Sorento is a very relaxing experience. It provides great ride quality and passenger comfort thanks to a suspension that is not overly stiff nor overly dampened. The cabin is quiet, and the seats are comfortable for first and second-row passengers. Third-row passengers might feel a little claustrophobic, though.
For 2023, Kia has updated the packaging for all Sorento trim levels, giving the Sorento an even more robust list of standard features. Our range-topping X-Line SX-Prestige now comes with standard all-wheel drive, a 115-volt power inverter, and door shades. The exterior of the X-Line provides a unique bumper and exterior details, X-Line-specific 20-inch wheels, a roof rack, and a slightly lifted suspension vs the normal Sorento.
The bottom line is that Kia remains the leader in quality for the dollar regarding their product. The 2023 Sorento is a great example of this, and there are price points for anyone interested in the vehicle. The Sorento is so good that this is the mid-size SUV we’d buy if we needed the extra third-row space.
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