7 Key Differences Between the Kia Sportage Vs Kia Sorento

When comparing the Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento, here are some important points to keep in mind 
  1. The Sorento can accommodate 6 to 7 passengers, while the Sportage seats up to 5
  2. The Sorento generally carries a higher price tag than the Sportage.
  3. Under the hood, the Sorento offers more power compared to the Sportage.
  4. The Sportage delivers better fuel efficiency than the Sorento. 
  5. The Sportage is available in six trim levels, whereas the Sorento offers eight.
  6. Color options differ as well: the Sorento comes in nine monotone shades, while the Sportage offers seven monotone and four two-tone color choices.
  7. The Kia Sorento has a higher ground clearance than the Kia Sportage
 

Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento Engine Specs

 Kia Sportage  Kia Sorento
Standard Engine  2.5-liter I-4 2.5-liter I-4
Standard  Horsepower  187 hp  191 hp 
 Standard Torque  178 lb.-ft.  181 lb.-ft. 
 Maximum Towing Capacity  2,500 lbs.  4,500 lbs. 
 EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) 25 / 32 / 28 23 / 31 / 26
 Seating Capacity 6-7 5
   

When it comes down performance, the Kia Sorento has a slight edge over the Kia Sportage in terms of power. To demonstrate, the Kia Sorento comes standard with 191 horsepower 2.5-liter I-4 engine that can get up to 181 lb.-ft. of torque and a max towing capacity of 4,500 lbs. With the Kia Sportage, you get a 187 horsepower 2.5-liter I4 engine that can get up to 178 lb.-ft. of torque, and a max towing capacity of 2,500 lbs. 

But for what it's worth, the Kia Sportage surpasses the Kia Sorento  with an EPA rated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city 32 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg combined. The Kia Sorento, on the other hand comes standard with an EPA rating of 23 mpg in the city 31 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg combined. 

Looking at both vehicles, the Kia Sorento packs more power, but the Kia Sorento delivers a better fuel economy.  

Kia SUVs By Size: Sportage Vs Sorento 


DimensionKia SportageKia Sorento
Height: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)65.4 inches66.7 inches
Height: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)66.1 inches74.8 inches
Width73.4 inches74.8 inches
Length184.4 inches189.6 inches
Ground Clearance: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)6.9 inches6.9 inches
Ground Clearance: All-Wheel Drive (AWD)8.2 inches8.2 inches
Approach Angle16.8°16.8°
Departure Angle22.3°22.3°

Side by side, the Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento are both conveniently compact SUVs with generous proportions, making it easy to drive through Chicago. The key difference is the Sorento tops the list for drivers needing more space for family adventures, carpooling, and packing extra gear. The Sportage, meanwhile, is a go-to favorite for those who need to slip into tight parking spots downtown or navigate rush hour traffic with ease.

Kia Sorento Dimensions

  • Height (FWD): 66.7 inches
  • Height (AWD): 74.8 inches
  • Width: 74.8 inches
  • Length: 189.6 inches
  • Wheelbase: 110.8 inches
  • Ground Clearance (FWD): 6.9 inches
  • Ground Clearance (AWD): 8.2 inches
  • Approach Angle: 16.8°
  • Departure Angle: 22.3°

Kia Sportage Dimensions

  • Height (FWD): 65.4 inches
  • Height (AWD): 66.1 inches
  • Width: 73.4 inches
  • Length: 184.4 inches
  • Wheelbase: 108.5 inches
  • Ground Clearance (FWD): 7.1 inches
  • Ground Clearance (AWD): 8.3 inches
  • Approach Angle: 18.7°
  • Departure Angle: 18.9°

Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento: Which Cabin Fits Your Lifestyle?

  

Step inside and the difference is immediate. The Kia Sorento is the family-hauler of the duo, offering seating for up to seven, while the Kia Sportage keeps it cozy with room for five.

Cargo Space Showdown

  • Sorento: 75.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, 45.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and 12.6 cubic feet behind the third.
  • Sportage: 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats down, and 39.6 cubic feet with them up.

For drivers juggling people and gear, the Sorento's extra row and larger cargo hold give it the advantage.

Stretching Out

  • Sorento: 41.4 inches of legroom up front, 41.7 inches in the second row, and 29.6 inches in the third.
  • Sportage: 54.8 inches in the front and 53.4 inches in the rear, giving passengers more lateral breathing room.

Bottom line? The Sorento is the one to pick when versatility is king, but the Sportage counters with a wide, comfortable cabin that makes every seat feel like the best seat in the house.

Feature Kia Sorento Kia Sportage
Seating Capacity Up to 7 passengers Up to 5 passengers
Cargo Volume (Behind 1st Row) 75.5 cu-ft 74.1 cu-ft
Cargo Volume (Behind 2nd Row) 45.0 cu-ft 39.6 cu-ft
Cargo Volume (Behind 3rd Row) 12.6 cu-ft -
Legroom (1st Row) 41.4 in 54.8 in
Legroom (2nd Row) 41.7 in 53.4 in
Legroom (3rd Row) 29.6 in -

Kia Sportage Vs Kia Sorento Interior Features 

 
  Kia Sorento  Kia Sportage 
 12.3-inch Touchscreen Display Standard  Standard 
 12.3-inch Touchscreen Display w/ Navigation Standard Standard  
 4.0-inch Instrument Display Standard  Standard 
 12.3-inch Curved Instrument Display Available  Not Available 
 Over-the-Air System Updates (OTA) Standard  Standard 
 6-Speaker Audio System Standard  Standard 
 Bose® Premium Audio System, 12 Speakers Available  Not Available 
 Wireless Android Auto™ Standard  Standard 
 Wireless Apple CarPlay® Standard  Standard 
 SiriusXM® Satellite Radio Standard  Standard 
 Remote Start Standard  Standard 
 Wireless Phone Charger Available  Available 
 3rd-Row USB Charging Ports : 2 Standard  Not Available
 2nd-Row 12V Power Port: 1  Standard  Available 
 Cargo Area 12V Power Port: 1 Standard  Not Available
 115V Power Inverter Outlet, Rear Cargo Standard  Not Available
 Wi-Fi Hotspot Available  Not Available 
 Bluetooth® Wireless Technology w/ Multi-Device Connectivity* Standard  Standard 
 Schedule Maintenance Reminder through Kia Connect Standard  Standard 
   
 
When it comes down to the interior, the Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento both offer a wide-array of semi-similar tech features. For instance, both the Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento both come standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and Hands-Free Bluetooth Technology. The key difference is the Kia Sorento comes available with a 12.3-inch Curved Instrument Display, and a Bose® Premium Audio System, 12 Speakers. In addition to that the Kia Sorento also comes standard with two 3rd-row USB charging ports, and an Wi-Fi Hotspot.  However, as mentioned before, the Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento interior features are closely related. 

Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento Test Drive At Napleton River Oaks Kia 

Ultimately, the Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento are both tech-savvy compact SUVs, with a sleek, sporty exterior appearance. The key difference is the Kia Sorento has seven passenger seating and the Kia Sportage has 5-passenger seating. Another key aspect is, the Kia Sorento has a max towing capacity of 4,500 lbs. and the Kia Sportage has a max towing capacity of 2,500 lbs.  Therefore it all comes down to your preferences and priorities. For instance, if you're looking for a new SUV with a powerful fuel-economy that knows how to get around Chicago, the Kia Sportage is a top-pick. However, if you're looking for a reliable three-row SUV near Chicago with more room , comfort, and capability, the Kia Sorento is for you. But don't just take our word for it. Visit us today and let us show you why so many people are talking about the new Kia Sorento and the Kia Sportage in Calumet City, Chicago, Hammond, Munster, and surrounding areas. We are located at 1951 River Oaks Dr Calumet City, IL 60409. Our doors are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. We are also open on Saturday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Of course if you prefer shopping online, we encourage you to call 888-711-0920orapply online. 

Get A First Look At The Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento Photos 

  Kia Sportage Exterior   Kia Sorento Exterior 
  Kia Sportage Interior  Kia Sorento Interior 

Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento FAQ

Which is bigger, the Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento?

The Kia Sorento is larger than the Kia Sportage. The Sorento offers three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, while the Sportage has two rows and seats up to five. Cargo space is also greater in the Sorento, making it better for bigger families or those who need extra room.

Which is more affordable, the Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento?

The Kia Sportage is generally more affordable than the Kia Sorento. As a compact SUV, it has a lower starting price and fewer premium features in its base trims. The Sorento, being a midsize SUV with more seating and larger dimensions, typically costs more.

Which has better fuel economy, Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento?

The Kia Sportage usually offers better fuel efficiency compared to the Kia Sorento. Its smaller size and lighter weight make it more economical, especially in city driving. The Sorento provides more power and seating capacity, but at the expense of slightly lower MPG.

Which is better for families, Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento?

Both SUVs work well for families, but the Kia Sorento is better suited for larger households thanks to its three rows of seating and more cargo capacity. The Sportage is ideal for smaller families or those who prioritize maneuverability and fuel economy.

Do Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento offer all-wheel drive?

Yes, both the Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento offer available all-wheel drive. AWD provides better traction and control in rain, snow, and off-road conditions, making both SUVs versatile for different driving environments.

Which offers more cargo space, Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento?

The Kia Sorento offers more cargo space than the Kia Sportage. With all seats folded, the Sorento provides up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo volume, compared to the Sportage's 74.1 cubic feet. The difference is more noticeable when all rows are in use.

Which is easier to park, Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento?

The Kia Sportage is easier to park thanks to its smaller size and tighter turning radius. The Sorento is still manageable, but its longer body and extra seating make it slightly less nimble in tight spaces.

Which has more towing capacity, Kia Sportage or Kia Sorento?

The Kia Sorento offers more towing power, with a maximum capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Kia Sportage can tow up to 2,500 pounds, making the Sorento a better choice for hauling boats, trailers, or campers.

Contact

Napleton River Oaks Kia

1951 River Oaks Dr
Directions Calumet City, IL 60409

  • Sales: 888-711-0920
  • Service: 888-869-3305
  • Parts: 844-847-8438

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