2024 Kia Sorento SX-Prestige Review: Kia Gives The Sorento a Mid-Cycle Refresh Focused on Styling Upgrades

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The base of the Kia Sorento remains the same, but the styling takes several elements from the revamped EV9 and Carnival.

The midsize SUV segment is hotter than ever, and Kia is determined to keep its place at the front of the pack. Following the recent updates to the Telluride and the EV9 that I reviewed in March of this year, the 2024 Sorento is getting a refresh to maintain its appeal.

While the overall design of the 2024 Sorento remains largely unchanged from the South Korean model, Kia has introduced subtle styling tweaks to give the SUV a more modern look. The most noticeable changes are at the front, where the headlights now feature a sleek, connected light strip that flows into the grille. The Kia logo has also been repositioned closer to the hood, and the grille itself has been enlarged. At the rear, the vertical taillights now connect at the top, creating a more unified appearance.

Trims, Variations, and Pricing

At Kia, there is no risk of criticism for the lack of choice. For 2024, including the addition of the X-Pro, the Sorento arrives with 8 different versions: namely the base LX, S, EX, SX, EX X-Line, SX X-Line, SX Prestige and SX Prestige X-Pro. The base LX trim starts at $33,365 MSRP, while the top SX Prestige X-Pro comes with a $48,765 price tag. The SX-Prestige version that I am driving this week with 2.5T AWD is offered at $46,910 plus inland freight and handling.

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions retain the same design as in 2021 and the 2021 hybrid Sorento was one of the best hybrid SUV of this size that I have driven with 39 mpg. In 2024 EX, SX Prestige and are offered in hybrid versions, while the SX Prestige is also offered as PHEV for $51,665.

I think if you are willing to pay $46,910 for the SX-Prestige trim, it's perhaps better to pay $51,665 and buy the PHEV Sorento to get great mileage.

2024 Kia Sorento's Engine and Transmission

The 2024 Kia Sorento offers two engine options:  

  1. Standard Engine: A 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower.  
  2. Optional Turbocharged Engine: A more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 281 horsepower.  

Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. However, the hybrid model utilizes a six-speed automatic transmission.  

While the turbocharged engine provides ample power for most driving situations, some reviewers have noted that it can feel a bit sluggish off the line. The Sorento's handling is well-balanced, offering a comfortable ride and confident cornering. The X-Pro trim, a new addition for 2024, is specifically designed for off-road enthusiasts, featuring a center-locking differential, all-terrain tires, and increased ground clearance.

Exterior Design

The 2024 Kia Sorento offers a bold and refreshed exterior design. The front end has undergone a significant transformation, featuring a striking new headlight design. The vertical LED headlights are integrated into a complex structure that extends above the grille, housing the daytime running lights and turn signals. This bold design element gives the Sorento a distinctive and modern look.

The lower portion of the front fascia varies depending on the trim level. Base models like the LX and EX sport a more traditional design, while higher trims like the X-Line and X-Pro feature a more rugged and off-road-oriented appearance. The X-Line and above trims also come equipped with roof rails, increased ground clearance, and unique 20-inch wheels, further enhancing their adventurous character.

At the rear, the taillights have been redesigned as well. Gone are the four vertical stripes, replaced by a more connected and streamlined design. These subtle changes contribute to the Sorento's overall refined and contemporary look.

Interior

The 2024 Kia Sorento offers a modern and driver-focused interior. The most notable change is the integration of the two separate screens from the previous model into a single, curved display. This streamlined design enhances visibility and improves the overall aesthetic.

While the digital instrument cluster provides essential information, it lacks the flexibility to display maps or other advanced features. The multimedia system, however, has been improved with a more colorful and visually appealing interface. The physical controls for the multimedia system and climate control are well-placed and easy to use.

The Sorento's interior is designed with practicality in mind. The center console offers convenient features like a wireless charging pad and USB ports. The dual-role dial provides quick access to driving modes and terrain settings. The spacious cabin, especially in the second row, offers ample legroom and comfort. While access to the third row may be a bit tight, it's suitable for occasional use.  

The new and refreshed Sorento offers a spacious and comfortable interior, though its third-row seating is best suited for children. While the second-row seats provide ample legroom and comfort, the third-row seats are cramped and best suited for occasional use.

Cargo space is adequate for a midsize SUV, but it falls short of the larger Telluride. With the third row folded, the Sorento can accommodate a decent amount of luggage. However, with all rows in use, cargo space is limited.

The trunk offers ample space, and the flexible seating configuration allows for various cargo arrangements.

Overall, the Sorento's interior is well-appointed and offers a pleasant driving experience. While it may not be the most spacious three-row SUV on the market, it provides a comfortable and functional cabin for most families.

  • Is the Kia Sorento a good car for a growing family?

    My experience shows that the 2024 Kia Sorento is a very good vehicle for a growing family. The 2024 Kia Sorento is an excellent choice for a growing family because it offers a spacious interior with three rows of seating, making it perfect for accommodating larger families. The Sorento also comes with a variety of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, to keep your family safe on the road. Additionally, its comfortable ride and quiet cabin make it a great choice for long family road trips.

  • How does the Kia Sorento compare to other SUVs in its class, like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander?

    The 2024 Kia Sorento competes well against other midsize SUVs like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. It offers a stylish design, a comfortable interior, and advanced technology features. While the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander have strong reputations for reliability, the Kia Sorento has been improving in this area in recent years. Kia also offers competitive pricing and a longer warranty than many of its competitors.

  • What is the fuel economy like on the Kia Sorento?

    The fuel economy of the 2024 Kia Sorento varies depending on the trim level and engine configuration. While the base model with the standard engine offers decent fuel economy, the higher trim levels with more powerful engines tend to have lower fuel efficiency. The 2024 SX-Prestige with 2.5T AWD gets 23 MPG and 20/27 city/highway respective. However, the Sorento's fuel economy is still competitive with other midsize SUVs in its class.

  • Is the Kia Sorento reliable?

    Kia has made significant strides in improving the reliability of its vehicles in recent years. The 2024 Kia Sorento has received positive reviews for its reliability and build quality. While it's still too early to have long-term reliability data, Kia's strong warranty coverage and improved quality control processes suggest that the Sorento is a reliable choice.

  • What are the safety features on the Kia Sorento?

    The 2024 Kia Sorento comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and driver attention warning. These advanced safety features help to protect you and your passengers in the event of an accident.

Kia backs the 2024 Sorento with a comprehensive warranty package:

  • Limited Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
  • Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles
  • Hybrid Components Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

While Kia's warranty coverage is impressive, it's important to note that the company does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance, unlike its sister brand, Hyundai.

Overall, the 2024 Sorento is a well-rounded midsize SUV that offers a blend of style, comfort, and practicality. With its stylish design, spacious interior, and advanced features, the Sorento is a strong contender in its segment.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.