(September 25, 2020) IRVINE, Calif. — The all-new fourth-generation Kia Sorento changes the game again. Since its debut in 2002, the Sorento is one of Kia’s best-known and best-selling vehicles, becoming progressively more powerful, more attractive, better engineered and more technologically advanced in each new iteration. The 2021 model sets a new standard for Sorento’s sustained excellence and leadership in the compact SUV segment as the only vehicle in its class to offer the best estimated fuel economy for a 3-row SUV with 37 mpg combined.

“Sorento has always been one of Kia’s premier products,” said Sean Yoon, president & CEO, Kia Motors North America & Kia Motors America. “Its combination of style, utility, safety and comfort have made it a perennial customer favorite. This stunning new Sorento sets the bar in the compact SUV class even higher and represents the pinnacle of Kia design and engineering. We’re extremely proud to add it to our line-up of incredible automobiles.”

The 2021 Sorento is expected to go on sale later this year and pricing will be announced closer to its on-sale date.

The 2021 Sorento will be offered in five trims: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige and available with either FWD or AWD. Initially available with three powertrains, including a turbo hybrid, a PHEV will be introduced in the next model year. The hero model is the SX-Prestige AWD with X-Line appearance package, a variant that further demonstrates the transformation of the Sorento into a more premium and tech-oriented SUV.

The exterior of the 2021 Sorento presents a study in stylish architectural structure defined by sharp, modern lines and accented with high-tech details - more authentic SUV than soft crossover. This evolution of Kia’s dynamic aesthetic is exemplified best in the following details:

    •    Kia’s modernized “tiger nose,” with new “eyeline” DRL details and a wide grille extending into the headlight and hood structure

    •    The hood edge wraps around the body side and integrates into the rear shoulder line, enhancing length and width

    •    Standard LED headlamps and optional signature LED forward lighting includes daytime running lights. Headlamp and DRL modules are separated for a high-tech look

    •    Strong side character line emphasizes muscular and athletic profile

    •    Distinctive dynamic wave shape at base of the C pillar

The 2021 Sorento is built on an all-new third generation “N3” platform that is a lighter, stronger and more flexible design than previous models. Wheelbase has been increased by nearly 1.4 inches for more interior space. Body-in-white weight is reduced by 5.6% and overall weight is reduced by 3.1% (119 pounds).



Average tensile strength is improved by 4% compared to the previous Sorento. The new crossover has improved driving dynamics, including acceleration, ride and handling, and noise vibration and harshness (NVH), and a new aluminum bumper plate for improved durability.

Four engines are offered including two internal combustion powerplants and two electrified motors in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations: A 2.5-liter GDI 4-cylinder with 191 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission;  a 2.5-liter GDI 4-cylinder Turbo bringing 281 hp and 311 pound-feet of torque mated to an exclusive 8-speed wet dual clutch automatic transmission; a 1.6-liter GDI 4-cylinder Turbo Hybrid with 44 kW electric motor with a total of 227 horsepower and a combined 37 mpg; and a 1.6-liter GDI 4-cylinder Turbo Plug-in Hybrid with 66.9 kW electric motor (available in 2021).