Kia has recently announced the 2024 Sorento Hybrid, a midsize SUV that combines turbocharged performance, spacious seating, and advanced technology. The Sorento Hybrid is part of Kia’s ambitious plan to offer 11 electrified models by 2026, including seven dedicated EVs. The Sorento Hybrid is expected to hit the U.S. market in the fall of 2023, joining the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid that was launched earlier this year.
What’s New for the 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid?
The 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid is not a completely new model but rather a facelifted version of the fourth-generation Sorento that debuted in 2020. However, the changes are significant enough to make the Sorento Hybrid more attractive and competitive in the crowded SUV segment. Some of the key updates for the 2024 model year include:
- A redesigned front end with new vertical headlights, a reshaped grille, and a smoother hood. The headlights feature four LED modules and two-star map DRLs that give the Sorento Hybrid a distinctive and futuristic look. The grille also has a new pattern and no longer bears the Kia logo, which is now placed on the hood.
- A revised rear end with new taillights, bumper, and skid plate. The taillights are connected by a star map graphic that forms an inverted U-shape, adding to the visual appeal of the Sorento Hybrid. The bumper and skid plate are also more refined and sporty.
- A revamped interior with a larger and curved dual display that combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The infotainment system runs on Kia’s new software, offering improved graphics, functionality, and connectivity. The dashboard also has slimmer air vents and a touchbar that can switch between HVAC and navigation controls.
- New wheel designs and color options. The Sorento Hybrid will offer new alloy wheel designs in 17-inch, 18-inch, and 19-inch sizes, depending on the trim level. The exterior color palette will also be expanded with new shades, such as beige, blue, and green. The interior will also have new upholstery and trim options, such as leather, wood, and metal.
What are the Features and Specs of the 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid?
The 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid will be available in two trim levels: S and EX. Both trims will come with a standard front-wheel-drive system, while the EX trim will offer an optional all-wheel-drive system with a center-locking differential. The Sorento Hybrid will also have four drive modes: Eco, Sport, Smart, and Snow, that can adjust the throttle response, gear shift points, regenerative braking, and more.
The powertrain of the Sorento Hybrid will consist of a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 44-kW electric motor that together produces 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Unlike other gearless hybrids, the engine and the motor will be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that electronically shifts through a full gearbox. The Sorento Hybrid will also have a 1.5-kWh lithium-ion battery that can be recharged while driving without the need for plugging in.
The fuel economy of the Sorento Hybrid will be impressive, especially for a three-row SUV. The Sorento Hybrid S FWD will have an EPA-estimated rating of 39 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined. The Sorento Hybrid EX FWD will have a slightly lower rating of 37 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined due to its larger wheels and heavier weight. The Sorento Hybrid EX AWD will have the lowest rating of 34 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined, but will also have the best performance and traction.
The Sorento Hybrid will also have a generous cargo capacity and towing capability. The Sorento Hybrid will offer up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded down and up to 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. The Sorento Hybrid will also be able to tow up to 2,000 pounds, which is enough for a small trailer or a jet ski.
The Sorento Hybrid will not skimp on comfort and convenience features, either. The Sorento Hybrid will come standard with three rows of seats that can accommodate up to six passengers, with second-row captain’s chairs and a third-row bench. The Sorento Hybrid will also offer heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a smart power tailgate, a wireless charging pad, a Bose premium audio system, and a 360-degree surround view monitor, among other features.
The Sorento Hybrid will also be equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and highway driving assist. The Sorento Hybrid will also feature a blind spot view monitor that displays a live view of the rear blind spots on the instrument cluster when the turn signal is activated.
