If you are considering buying a Kia Sorento, it’s essential to know what are the different Kia Sorento models available. The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that has undergone numerous modifications throughout its production history.
However, the LX, S, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige are the most popular Sorento models available on the market.
The Sorento is typically equipped with a four-cylinder or V6 engine with variable horsepower and torque outputs depending on the model year and specification level. Typically, the engine is coupled with an automatic transmission, with the number of gears varying by model year and engine.
Let’s dig in to learn about the different Kia Sorento models available.
1. Sorento LX:
The Kia Sorento LX is the mid-range trim level of the Kia Sorento SUV. This is the entry-level Sorento model.
Engine
The Sorento LX’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Some older models may have a V6 engine, for example.
Transmission
A 8-speed automatic transmission is included with the Sorento LX.
Seating
The Sorento LX’s third row accommodates up to seven passengers.
Safety features
Standard Sorento LX features include a rearview camera, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.
2. Sorento S:
The Kia Sorento S is a premium midsize SUV Kia Sorento trim. This model adds 20-inch rims, a sport-tuned suspension, LED headlamps and ambient lights, and a panoramic sunroof to the LX.
Engine
Approximately 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque are produced by the Sorento S’s standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Some older models may have a V6 engine.
Transmission
The standard transmission for the Sorento S is an eight-speed automatic.
Seating
The third row of seats in the Sorento S accommodates up to seven occupants.
3. Sorento EX:
The Kia Sorento EX is a mid-to-upper-level trim of the midsize SUV Kia Sorento. Some features of the model include:
Engine
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the Sorento EX produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Some older variants may have alternative engines, such as a V6.
Infotainment
The Sorento EX’s 10.25-inch touchscreen multimedia system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other features
Depending on the model year, the Sorento EX may include leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Additional bundles or options, such as a 12-speaker Bose audio system or a hands-free power liftgate, may be available for some models.
4. Sorento SX:
The top-tier variant of the midsize SUV from Kia is the Sorento SX. The SX variant includes wireless charging, a 12-speaker Bose music system, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
Engine
The Sorento SX’s 2.5-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Older versions could feature a different engine, such as a V6.
Transmission
The Sorento SX usually comes with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Infotainment
The Sorento SX is usually equipped with a bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, and a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system.
5. Sorento SX-P:
The SX-P is a variation of the top-tier SX trim of the Kia Sorento midsize SUV. A heated steering wheel, head-up display, and 360-degree video system are standard on this Sorento’s top trim.
Engine
The Sorento SX-P is powered by a four-cylinder, 2.5-liter accelerated engine with 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. A V6 engine, for example, may be found in certain earlier vehicles.
Transmission
The Sorento SX-P comes standard with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Other features
Several unique features are added to the Sorento SX-P, including 20-inch black alloy wheels, gloss black exterior elements, black roof rails, a black headliner, a panoramic sunroof, and a black leather inside with gray stitching. Depending on the model year, the Sorento SX-P could include options like a power driver’s seat with memory settings.
If you are considering purchasing a Kia Sorento, learn about what are the different Kia Sorento models available, including the LX, S, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige.
Kia Sorento Generations
There are several generations and trims of the Sorento since it has undergone numerous redesigns and modifications. The several Kia Sorento models are summarized as follows:
1. 2021 – Present Kia Sorento (MQ4 4th Generation)
The fourth generation of the Kia Sorento was introduced for the 2021 model year with a brand-new exterior design that was significantly boxier and more striking than its predecessors.
This generation offers front- or all-wheel-drive engine options. You may choose between a normal 2.5-liter engine with 191 horsepower and a supercharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine with 281 horsepower.
2. 2016 – 2020 Kia Sorento (UM 3rd Generation)
Five specification levels were available on the third-generation Sorento. In addition to the four versions of the preceding iteration, a primary L model was added. This model is equipped with a 190-horsepower, 2.4-liter inline-four-cylinder engine.
A 290-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6 engine was available to enhance the LX, which replaced the L as the base model. The EX has a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine with 240 horsepower.
3. 2010 – 2014 Kia Sorento (XMA 2nd Generation)
The new Sorento was called the XMA, the first Kia car made in the United States. It also featured Kia’s first UVO infotainment system.
The outside of this generation was very different from the last, which almost made Kia think about changing the car’s name. You might be wondering where is the transmission dipstick on a kia sorento of this model. The placement of the gearbox dipstick varies based on the model year and engine type, but it is normally found at the back of the engine compartment, on the passenger side of the car.
4. 2003 – 2009 Kia Sorento (BL 1st Generation)
The first version of the Kia Sorento was a body-on-frame SUV, like many SUVs of the time. It could be bought with a four-wheel-drive system, and the low-range setting was praised for its ability to go off-road.
This generation’s main engine was a 3.5-liter V6 made by Hyundai. This V6 engine made 192 hp and 217 lb-ft of torque.
The Sorento also had disc brakes on all four wheels, ABS as an option, and a fuel tank that could hold up to 21.1 gallons.
Final Thought
The Sorento has undergone several redesigns and modifications, giving rise to numerous generations and trims. Therefore, if you are interested in purchasing a Kia Sorento, it’s important to know what are the different Kia Sorento models available, including the generations.
Every model has its own characteristics and capabilities, including various engine choices, seating capacities, and cutting-edge safety and entertainment technologies.
The Kia Sorento is a well-liked family SUV that provides comfort, adaptability, and usefulness. It is a great pick for individuals looking for a dependable and fashionable SUV due to its sleek external design, roomy interior, and contemporary amenities. There is always a Kia Sorento model that may suit your requirements and tastes. No matter whether you need a car for everyday transportation, road trips, or weekend excursions.
FAQs
Where is the transmission dipstick on a Kia Sorento?
Locate the gearbox fluid dipstick by opening the car’s hood. It’s often found in front-wheel-drive vehicles to the right of the oil dipstick.
What are the differences between the different Kia Sorento models?
The Kia Sorento models differ in their features and specifications, including engine options, seating capacity, and advanced safety and infotainment features.
How do I choose the right Kia Sorento model for me?
Consider your needs and preferences, such as how many passengers you must transport, the cargo space you require, and the features and technology you prioritize. Driving various vehicles also helps you make an informed decision.
Do all Kia Sorento models have the same engine options?
Not necessarily—the available powertrains change yearly and trim to trim. For example, the 2022 Kia Sorento LX and S come standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the EX, SX, and SX-Prestige come standard with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
Which Kia Sorento model has the most advanced safety features?
The most cutting-edge safety technologies, such as blind-spot monitoring, frontal collision warning, automated emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control, are included with the Kia Sorento SX-Prestige.