Archived model-year dossier
2026 Kia Sorento
The 2026 Kia Sorento's FuelEconomy.gov record holds 7 EPA certification records across 5 model/option labels (Sorento AWD, Sorento FWD, +3 more), spanning All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive drivetrains and Regular, Regular Gas and Electricity fuel types across 3 engines (1.6L 4-cyl SIDI; Hybrid, 1.6L 4-cyl SIDI; PHEV, 2.5L 4-cyl SIDI & PFI). EPA classifies it under Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD, Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD vehicle classes, built on Conventional, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid powertrain technologies. Across those configurations, expect combined efficiency of 23–37 MPG/MPGe, an electric range of 30 miles, an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,700–$2,700/yr. NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for this model year.
Configurations7
Model/option labels5
Combined efficiency23–37 MPG/MPGe
Electric range30 mi
Decision answers17
Trim-by-trim specifications
The 2026 Kia Sorento: 8 trims compared.
Kelley Blue Book specifications, one row per trim.
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drive | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | Top speed | EPA city / hwy / comb | Seats | Basic warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd | FWD | 191 | 181 | 124 mph | 23 / 31 / 26 mpg | 7 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| S | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd | AWD | 191 | 181 | 124 mph | 23 / 28 / 25 mpg | 7 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| EX | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo, GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | AWD | 281 | 311 | 131 mph | 20 / 27 / 23 mpg | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| SX | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo, GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | FWD | 281 | 311 | 131 mph | 20 / 29 / 23 mpg | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| X-Line EX | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo, GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | AWD | 281 | 311 | 20 / 27 / 23 mpg | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi | |
| X-Line SX | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo, GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | AWD | 281 | 311 | 131 mph | 20 / 27 / 23 mpg | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| X-Line SX Prestige | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo, GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | AWD | 281 | 311 | 131 mph | 20 / 27 / 23 mpg | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| X-Pro SX Prestige | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo, GDI) | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | AWD | 281 | 311 | 20 / 27 / 23 mpg | 6 | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
| Trim | Curb weight | Length | Height | Wheelbase | Ground clearance | Turning circle | Fuel tank | Front headroom | Front legroom | Towing | Tires |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 3,814 lb | 189.6 in | 66.7 in | 110.8 in | 6.9 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 2,000 lb | P235/65R17 |
| S | 4,045 lb | 189.6 in | 70.3 in | 110.8 in | 8.2 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 2,000 lb | P235/60R18 |
| EX | 4,211 lb | 189.6 in | 70.3 in | 110.8 in | 8.2 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 3,500 lb | P255/45R20 |
| SX | 3,979 lb | 189.6 in | 66.9 in | 110.8 in | 6.9 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 2,000 lb | P255/45R20 |
| X-Line EX | 4,211 lb | 189.8 in | 70.3 in | 110.8 in | 8.2 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 3,500 lb | P255/45R20 |
| X-Line SX | 4,211 lb | 189.8 in | 70.3 in | 110.8 in | 8.2 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 3,500 lb | P255/45R20 |
| X-Line SX Prestige | 4,211 lb | 189.8 in | 70.3 in | 110.8 in | 8.2 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 3,500 lb | P255/45R20 |
| X-Pro SX Prestige | 4,213 lb | 189.8 in | 70.3 in | 110.8 in | 8.2 in | 37.9 ft | 17.7 gal | 40.3 in | 41.4 in | 4,500 lb | P235/65R17 |
Equipment by trim
Which 2026 Kia Sorento trim has what.
Std is standard, Opt is optional, a dash means Kelley Blue Book lists it as not available.
| Equipment | LX | S | EX | SX | X-Line EX | X-Line SX | X-Line SX Prestige | X-Pro SX Prestige |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | ||||||||
| Anti-theft alarm | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Blind-spot alert | – | – | – | Std | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Child door locks | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Child-seat anchors | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Forward collision warning | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hill-descent control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hill-start assist | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Pedestrian detection | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | – | – |
| Rearview camera | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Surround-view camera | – | – | – | Std | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Electronic stability control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Traction control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Technology | ||||||||
| Bluetooth audio streaming | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Bluetooth | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hands-free calling | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| IPod connector | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| IPod interface | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Built-in internet access | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Navigation system | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Premium audio system | – | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Satellite radio | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Apple CarPlay or Android Auto | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Steering-wheel audio controls | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Voice recognition | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Comfort | ||||||||
| Heated front seats | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Heated rear seats | – | – | – | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Heated steering wheel | – | – | – | Std | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Heated mirrors | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power front seats for driver and passenger | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power driver's seat | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Leather seats | – | – | – | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Leather-wrapped steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Panoramic moonroof | – | Opt | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Tilt steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Cup holders | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Third-row seat | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Folding rear seat | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Exterior and convenience | ||||||||
| Alloy wheels | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Fog lights | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Privacy glass | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rear spoiler | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Roof rails | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power-folding mirrors | – | – | – | Std | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Power liftgate or trunk | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| 12-volt power outlet | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power windows | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote engine start | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Proximity keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Push-button start | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Cruise control | Std | Std | – | – | – | – | Std | Std |
| Rear-window defroster | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rain-sensing wipers | – | – | – | Std | – | Std | Std | Std |
| Dual-clutch automatic transmission | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
Complete certification table
7 configuration records.
| EPA ID / label | Engine / technology | Drive / transmission | Fuel | City | Hwy | Combined | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49508Sorento AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl SIDI & PFIConventional | All-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8) | Regular | 23 | 28 | 25 | N/A |
| 49509Sorento AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl SIDI & PFIConventional | All-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S8) | Regular | 20 | 27 | 23 | N/A |
| 49460Sorento FWD | 2.5L 4-cyl SIDI & PFIConventional | Front-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S8) | Regular | 23 | 31 | 26 | N/A |
| 49461Sorento FWD | 2.5L 4-cyl SIDI & PFIConventional | Front-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S8) | Regular | 20 | 29 | 23 | N/A |
| 49507Sorento Hybrid AWD | 1.6L 4-cyl SIDI; HybridHybrid | All-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S6) | Regular | 32 | 35 | 34 | N/A |
| 49457Sorento Hybrid FWD | 1.6L 4-cyl SIDI; HybridHybrid | Front-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S6) | Regular | 37 | 36 | 37 | N/A |
| 49766Sorento Plug-in Hybrid | 1.6L 4-cyl SIDI; PHEVPlug-in Hybrid | All-Wheel DriveAutomatic (AM-S6) | Regular Gas and Electricity | 33 | 34 | 33 | 30 mi |
Model-specific answer center
17 answers for this exact family-year.
Q01What changed on the 2026 Kia Sorento versus the 2025 Kia Sorento?
Model year
Against the 2025 Kia Sorento: Midpoint combined efficiency moved from 29.5 to 30.0 MPG/MPGe. Federal recall campaigns on file went from 3 for the 2025 to 2 for the 2026.
Source: FuelEconomy.gov certification records for both model years
Q02Which engine oil does each 2026 Kia Sorento engine take?
Maintenance
The 2026 Kia Sorento owner's manual lists SAE 0W-20 for the Smartstream G2.5 GDi (6.13 US quarts), and SAE 0W-30 for the Smartstream G2.5 T-GDi (6.13 US quarts). Source: 2026 Kia Sorento owner's manual.
Source: Manufacturer owner's manual
Q03What torque do the 2026 Kia Sorento's wheel nuts need?
Wheels and tires
The 2026 Kia Sorento owner's manual gives a wheel-nut tightening torque of 79–94 lb-ft. Source: 2026 Kia Sorento owner's manual.
Source: Manufacturer owner's manual
Q04How do the 2026 Kia Sorento trims differ from one another?
Trims
The S has AWD instead of FWD and heated front seats, built-in internet access, a power driver's seat and roof rails as standard equipment over the LX. The EX has 281 hp against 191 and a dual-clutch automatic transmission, power front seats for driver and passenger, fog lights and 2 more as standard equipment over the S. The SX has FWD instead of AWD and blind-spot alert, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic moonroof and 4 more as standard equipment over the EX. The X-Line EX has AWD instead of FWD over the SX. The X-Line SX has blind-spot alert, a heated steering wheel, power-folding mirrors and 2 more as standard equipment over the X-Line EX.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Q05What colors does the 2026 Kia Sorento come in?
Colors and options
Kia lists 8 exterior colors for the 2026 Kia Sorento: Panthera Metal, Wolf Gray, Ivory Silver, Glacial White Pearl, Ebony Black, Midnight Lake Blue, Jungle Green, Road Rider Brown. Which colors are offered depends on the trim. Source: Kia published specifications for the 2026 model year, read 2026-09-25.
Source: kia.com (opens in a new tab)
Q06What is the destination charge on the 2026 Kia Sorento?
Pricing
The destination charge on the 2026 Kia Sorento is $1,495. MotorTrend lists it, and MotorTrend's MSRP plus this charge matches Kelley Blue Book's national price, which includes destination (FWD LX: MotorTrend MSRP $32,390 plus this charge equals Kelley Blue Book's $33,885; the same on 6 trims). Source: MotorTrend and Kelley Blue Book, read 2026-09-25.
Source: kia.com (opens in a new tab)
Q07What suspension does the 2026 Kia Sorento use?
Brakes and suspension
MotorTrend describes the 2026 Kia Sorento's suspension this way. Front: a MacPherson-type strut design. Rear: a multi-link design. Source: MotorTrend, read 2026-09-25.
Source: kia.com (opens in a new tab)
Q08Did the 2026 Kia Sorento earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick award?
Safety
IIHS lists the 2026 Kia Sorento as a Top Safety Pick+. IIHS states the rating applies to 2021-26, 2024-26, 2025-26 and 2026 models, based on a test of the 2021 Kia Sorento S 4-door 4wd. Source: IIHS vehicle ratings, read 2026-09-24.
Source: iihs.org (opens in a new tab)
Q09How did the 2026 Kia Sorento do in IIHS crash tests?
Safety
IIHS rated the 2026 Kia Sorento: Good in the small overlap front test, Good in the updated moderate overlap front test, Good in the updated side test. IIHS states the rating applies to 2021-26, 2024-26, 2025-26 and 2026 models, based on a test of the 2021 Kia Sorento S 4-door 4wd. Grades run Good, Acceptable, Marginal, Poor. Source: IIHS vehicle ratings, read 2026-09-24.
Source: iihs.org (opens in a new tab)
Q10What warranty does the 2026 Kia Sorento EX FWD come with?
Specifications
CarBuzz lists the 2026 Kia Sorento EX FWD with basic coverage of 60 months or 60,000 miles, powertrain coverage of 120 months or 100,000 miles, corrosion coverage of 60 months or 100,000 miles and roadside assistance of 60 months or 60,000 miles.
Source: CarBuzz model-year specification page
Q11What is the GVWR of the 2026 Kia Sorento LX 4dr SUV?
Specifications
CarDealerships.com lists a gross vehicle weight rating of 5,401 pounds for the 2026 Kia Sorento LX 4dr SUV.
Source: CarDealerships.com model-year specification page
Q12What is the payload capacity of the 2026 Kia Sorento LX 4dr SUV?
Specifications
CarDealerships.com lists a maximum payload of 1,587 pounds for the 2026 Kia Sorento LX 4dr SUV.
Source: CarDealerships.com model-year specification page
Q13How quickly does the 2026 Kia Sorento accelerate from 0 to 60 mph?
Specifications
The most recent instrumented 0 to 60 mph tests of this model that 0-60Specs.com lists are of earlier model years than the 2026 Kia Sorento: 6.7 seconds for the 2024 Kia Sorento X-Line SX Prestige (Motor Trend) and 6.9 seconds for the 2024 Kia Sorento X-Pro SX Prestige (Motor Trend).
Source: 0-60Specs.com model-year specification page
Q14What does the 2026 Kia Sorento cost across its trims?
Pricing
Kelley Blue Book's national base prices for the 2026 Kia Sorento run from $33,885 for the LX to $49,285 for the X-Pro SX Prestige, across 8 trims. Those figures include the destination charge.
Source: Kelley Blue Book
Q15What brake fluid, refrigerant and key-fob battery does the 2026 Kia Sorento use?
Maintenance
The 2026 Kia Sorento owner's manual names DOT 4 brake fluid and R-1234yf air-conditioning refrigerant. Source: 2026 Kia Sorento owner's manual. The 2025 model year has the same figure.
Source: Manufacturer owner's manual
Q16What is the 2026 Kia Sorento's top speed?
Performance
The 2026 Kia Sorento's top speed is 124 mph on the LX and S and 131 mph on the EX, SX, X-Line SX and X-Line SX Prestige. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications. The 2025 model year has the same figure.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Q17What size wheels does the 2026 Kia Sorento have?
Wheels and tires
The 2026 Kia Sorento's wheel diameter is 17 inches on the LX and X-Pro SX Prestige, 18 inches on the S and 20 inches on the 5 trims (EX, SX and X-Line EX and 2 more). Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications. The 2025 model year has the same figure.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
This model year’s federal safety record
2 federal recall campaigns are on file for the 2026 Kia Sorento.
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.
Federal filings for the 2026 Kia Sorento name tires, electrical system. These are the systems cited in recall documents for this model year specifically, not a survey of every fault owners report, and not a statement that any individual 2026 Kia Sorento is affected.
The 2025 Kia Sorento carries 3 recall campaigns: 1 more recall than the 2026. Open the 2025 Kia Sorento record
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation: Recalls API; NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation: Complaints API.
Live NHTSA evidence
Current federal safety records for 2026 Kia Sorento.
Exact-vehicle evidence desk
Check the exact vehicle, not just the model name.
Recalls, build data and service applicability are determined at VIN level, not by model name.
01 · NHTSASafety ratings, recalls, complaints and manufacturer communicationsExact model-year search → (opens in a new tab)02 · NHTSACheck open safety recalls by 17-character VINOfficial VIN remedy status → (opens in a new tab)03 · vPICDecode manufacturer-submitted vehicle attributesInternal VIN tool →04 · EPAQuery another year, make, model and option1984–current browser →
FuelEconomy.gov data source (opens in a new tab) · Methodology
Other model years
Compare the Kia Sorento across model years.
Ownership desk
Problems and maintenance decisions worth checking next.
Engine and coolingEngine ticking noise: normal operation or warning sign?Depends →Transmission and drivetrainHumming or growling that changes with road speedSoon →Brakes, tires and steeringWhat uneven tire-wear patterns meanSoon →Climate and electricalHeadlights or interior lights flickerSoon →Maintenance and fluidsWhen to replace the cabin air filterRoutine →Hybrid and electric vehiclesHybrid fuel economy suddenly lower than expectedRoutine →