2021 Kia Sorento

For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento rank near the top in their respective classes for their nice interiors, ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. SUVs like the Telluride have ride comfort, interior space, and overall value that earn it regular placement near the top of Consumer Reports’ ratings. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, ranging from compact sedans up to a three-row SUV. Kia’s reliability scores have been improving, but other brands score higher in our rankings. Specific Kia models have earned our recommendation among used cars.

Kia redesigned its Sorento SUV for 2021, with new engines and an available hybrid version. Three rows of seating are standard, in either six- or seven-passenger configurations. The base four-cylinder engine is neither quick nor quiet, but the 281-hp, turbo four-cylinder that comes on EX trims and higher gives strong acceleration and commendable fuel economy. Unfortunately, its dual-clutch automatic causes some low-speed vibrations. The 1.6-liter turbo hybrid version is pleasantly powerful, beyond an initial delay off the line. All-wheel drive can be had with either gas engine, but the hybrid is front-drive only. Handling is responsive but the ride is rather stiff. Standard active safety features include FCW and AEB with pedestrian detection, while BSW and RCTW are standard on all but the base trim. A 261-hp plug-in hybrid with 32 miles of electric range joins the Sorento lineup for 2022. The 2025 model includes ACC, LCA, LKA, and LDW as standard.