The 2020 Kia Sorento offers two powerplants--a 2.4L 4-cylinder that makes 185 horsepower and a 3.3L V6 that makes a full 290 horsepower. The 4-cylinder is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, and the V6 is paired with an 8-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is an option across the entire lineup, save base L models. Kia says the Sorento V6 with all-wheel-drive returns 18 mpg in the city, while the 4-cylinder without all-wheel drive can achieve up to 29 mpg on the highway.
The Sorento comes in five trim levels: L, LX, EX and SX. All but the L model are available with the V6.
The L may be the lowest trim level for the Sorento, but it's far from just a basic people mover. The entry-level trim comes with plenty of features. Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls, a USB input jack, power windows and door locks, heated outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and keyless-remote entry.
LX models feature a UVO eServices infotainment system, a rear-mounted camera, additional USB charging ports, the option of adding third row seating, automatic headlights and a set of roof rails. Optional equipment for the LX includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, parking sensors, a powered driver's seat, leather steering wheel and dual-zone climate control.
Buyers opting for the EX get dual-zone climate control, heated, eight-way power adjustable front seats, a backup warning system, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather seating trim, a gloss black grill, fog lamps and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The top-of-the-line SX trim rides on 19-inch wheels and several body-colored exterior additions give the SUV a more cohesive look. The SX trim also includes a panoramic sunroof, a power rear liftgate, a 10-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, voice recognition, a blind-spot detection system with rear cross-traffic alert, a ThinFilm Technology (TFT) instrument cluster and rear seat sunshades.
Clean Styling
Multiple Engine Options
Versatile Interior
Available All-wheel Drive
High-end Features
The Kia Sorento is updated for 2020 with lightly revised styling and a consolidation of its trim levels. The new SX model now comes equipped with an 8-inch infotainment system, app-based remote start and a rear-seat occupant alert.
The Kia Sorento competes in a crowded segment against other mid-sized SUVs. The Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander and Subaru Ascent all offer similar capacities, power and towing capacity, but the Kia's price starts about $5000 lower. The Sorento's strong fuel economy numbers, bold styling and extensive standard equipment set makes it an extremely versatile 7-passenger carrier. With a base price of about $26,000 and a 5-year bumper-to-bumper warranty, the 2020 Kia Sorento is extremely competitive.
