Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento: Everything You Need To Know 

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What's The Difference Between The Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento 

In recent discussions about the Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento there are several key differences: 

  • Seating: The Kia Sportage has has a maximum seating capacity of 5 passengers and the Kia Sorento has a maximum seating capacity of 7 passengers
  • Towing: The Kia Sorento has a maximum towing capacity of up to 4,500 lbs. and the Kia Sportage has a maximum towing capacity of up to 2,500 lbs. 
  • Cargo Space: The Kia Sportage offers more cargo space than the Kia Sorent
  • Price: Typically , Kia Sportage SUV's start at a lower price than the Kia Sorento

As far as the interior features, the Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento both come standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. We should also note that the Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento come standard with semi-similar safety features. Therefore it all comes down to your preferences and priorities. 

Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento Price

 
 
  • Kia Sportage: Typically priced between $28K and $40K.
  • Kia Sorento: Typically priced between $32K and $48K.

Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento Passenger and Cargo Space

 
  • Seating Capacity: The Kia Sportage seats up to five passengers, while the Kia Sorento accommodates six to seven passengers.
  • Cargo Volume: The Kia Sportage offers 74.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, compared to 75.5 cubic feet in the Kia Sorento.

Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento Towing Capacity

  • Kia Sportage: Maximum towing capacity ranges from 1,653 to 2,000 lbs.
  • Kia Sorento: Maximum towing capacity ranges from 2,000 to 4,500 lbs.

Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento Fuel Economy

  • Kia Sportage: EPA-estimated 25 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.
  • Kia Sorento: EPA-estimated 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined.

Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento: Which SUV Is Right for You?

Choose the Kia Sportage if you want a compact SUV with strong fuel efficiency and a lower starting price. Choose the Kia Sorento if you need more seating, higher towing capacity, and added versatility.

Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento Engine Configurations 

 Vehicle  Engine Type  Engine Configuration  Horsepower  Torque  EPA Estimated Mileage 
  •  Kia Sportage 
  • Kia Sorento 
  Gas-Powered 
  •  2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine 
  • 2.5 liter 4-Cylinder
  •  187 horsepower
  • 191 horsepower
  •  178 lb.-ft. of torque
  •  181 lb.-ft. of torque 
  •  Up to 33 MPG on the highway 
  • Up to 31 MPG on he HWY 
  •  Kia Sportage Hybrid 
  • Kia Sorento Hybrid 
 Hybrid 
  •  1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System
  • 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System
  •  232 combined horsepower
  • 227 combined horsepoweer
  •  271 lb.-ft. of combined torque 
  • 258 lb.-ft. of torque 
  •  Up to 44 MPG on the highway 
  • Up To 36 MPG on the highway 
  •  Kia Sportage Hybrid Plugin
  • Kia Sorento Hybrid Plugin 
 Plug-in Hybrid 
  •  1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System
  • 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System
  •  268 hp combined 
  • 261 hp
  •  271 lb.-ft. of torque combined 
  • 270 lb.-ft. of torque 
  •  83 MPGe
  • 74 MPGe

The Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento are both intuitively designed to deliver the perfect blend of power and fuel-efficiency. To achieve this, the Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento have three engine options including a 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder engine, a 1.6-liter Turbocharged And Full Parallel Hybrid Engine, and a 1.6-liter Turbocharged 4-cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System with a battery and an electric motor. Here's a quick breakdown on the Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento engine specs:
  • Kia Sportage Engine Configurations & Specs
    • 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine with 187 horsepower, 178 lb.-ft. of torque, up to 33 mpg on the highway 
    • 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 232 hp, 271 lb.-ft. of torque, Up to 44 mpg on the highway
    • 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System + Battery + Electric Motor: 268 hp, 271 lb.-ft. of torque, 83 MPGe
  • Kia Sorento Engine Configurations & Specs 
    • 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine with 187 horsepower, 178 lb.-ft. of torque, up to 31  mpg on the highway 
    • 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 227 hp, 258 lb.-ft. of torque, Up to 44 mpg on the highway
    • 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System + Battery + Electric Motor: 261 hp, 270 lb.-ft. of torque, 74 MPGe

Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento: Which SUV Has The Best Fuel Economy


In terms of fuel-efficiency, both the Kia Sportage and the Kia Sorento make it easy to save on gas. The key difference is the new front-wheel-drive Kia Sportage  SUV can get up to 25 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined. In comparison the new front-wheel-drive Kia Sorento has an EPA estimated mileage rating of 23 mpg in city, 31 mpg on the highway , and 26 mpg combined. Taking this into account, the Kia Sportage make easier for local Chicago residents to get up and go anywhere with less fuel. But don't just take our word for it. See for yourself. 

Kia Sportage Fuel Economy 

  • Kia Sportage 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine: 25 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 28 mpg combined
  • Kia Sportage 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System:41 mpg in the city ,44 mpg on the highway, and 41 mpg combined
  • Kia Sportage 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 74 MPGe Combined , 33 EPA-Estimated MPG ( Engine Only Combined) , 31 EPA-est. All Electric Range
Kia Sorento Fuel Economy:
  • Kia Sorento 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine: 23 mpg in the city, 31 mpg on the highway, 26 mpg combined
  • Kia Sorento 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 37 mpg in the city , 36 mpg on the highway, and 37 mpg combined
  • Kia Sorento 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 74 MPGe Combined , 33 EPA-Estimated MPG ( Engine Only Combined) , 31 EPA-est. All Electric Range 


Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento: Which SUV Has The Best Max Towing Capacity

When it comes down to max towing capacity, the Kia Sorento has a slight edge over the Kia Sportage. But for what it's worth the Kia Sportage is a solid runner up. To demonstrate, take a glance below:

Kia Sportage Max Towing Capacity 

  • Kia Sportage 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine: 2,500 lbs. with trailer brakes, and 1,653 without trailer brakes
  • Kia Sportage 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 2,000 lbs. with trailer brakes, and 1,653 lbs.  without trailer brakes
  • Kia Sportage 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 2,000 lbs. with trailer brakes and 1,653 lbs. without trailer brakes 

Kia Sorento  Max Towing Capacity 

  • Kia Sorento 2.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder Engine: 4,500 lbs. 
  • Kia Sorento 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 2,000 lbs. 
  • Kia Sorento 1.6 liter Turbocharged 4-Cylinder and Full Parallel Hybrid System: 2,000 lbs. 

Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento Size 

When comparing the exterior dimensions, the Kia Sorento is bigger than the Kia Sportage. To be specific, the Kia Sorento is 5.2-inches longer than the Kia Sorento, and 1.4-inches wider than the Kia Sportage. In terms of height, is 1.3-inches taller than the Kia Sportage. Take a glance below for an in-depth comparison of the Kia Sportage vs Sorento exterior dimensions:


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 sss
Wheelbase 108.5-inches110.8-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°

Kia Sorento Exterior  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 Exterior 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°
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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 -
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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 Autoâ„¢ 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. 
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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.
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Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento: Which SUV Is The Best For You 

All in all, both the Kia Sportage and the Sorento offer a unique driving experience. With this in mind, here's a quick breakdown on who the Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento are both ideal for: 
  • Everyday Commuters: The Kia Sportage is perfect for every day commuters  seeking more tech, style, and efficiency. 
  • Families: The Kia Sorento is perfect for family road trips, hauling extra cargo, and helping you and your family stay connected on the go. 
For an in-depth review of the Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento in person, visit our local River Oaks dealership near you. We are located at 17151 Torrence Ave. Lansing, IL, 60438, and our doors are Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 9:00pm and on Saturday we are open from 9:00 am to 6:00pm.

Contact

Napleton River Oaks Kia

17151 Torrence Ave.
Directions Lansing, IL 60438

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

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