Kia Sorento X-Line — Impressive compact crossover



By Jim Meachen and Ted Biederman

(June 13, 2021) Earlier this year we spent a week with the hybrid version of the all-new 2021 Kia Sorento and we were impressed with the compact crossover's combination of fuel efficiency and performance. In fact we were as impressed with the whole package that delivers ample passenger and cargo space, which includes a small third-row seat; comfortable seats including a great driver's perch; the latest in safety technology; and all-around class-leading styling.


Now we've had the opportunity to drive the optional turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder that provides rewarding acceleration with 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. In-between the bigger engine and the hybrid, the Sorento offers a standard 2.5-liter making 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. Both 2.5-liter engines are mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission while the hybrid gets a six-speed shifter.

We applaud Kia's decision not to use the usually uninspiring continuously variable transmission (CVT) that so many other manufacturers employ for their hybrid models.

The Sorento comes in seven trim levels — LX, S, EX, SX, SX Prestige, SX Prestige X-Line, and Hybrid. The bigger engine comes in the EX and higher trims. We got our taste of the turbocharged engine in the top line SX Prestige X-Line. The X-Line package with an upgraded all-wheel-drive system includes a locking center differential and downhill descent control, one-inch of additional ground clearance, unique bumpers front and rear, a roof rack, and 20-inch matte finish alloy wheels.

If your off roading is limited to a few weekend trips to your favorite rutted-path fishing hole and you don't need the admittedly good-looking exterior treatments, but you desire all-wheel drive and the bigger engine with its 3,500-pound towing capacity, the EX for thousands less brings a full load of safety technology, an impressive 12.3-inch fully digital gauge display and a 10.3 inch touchscreen.

While all-wheel drive is standard in the SX lineups, it is a $1,800 option in all other trim levels.


The turbocharged 2.5-liter brings satisfying performance measured at about 6.5 seconds with smooth and timely shifts from the eight-speed. While it might not be the sportiest vehicle in the segment, we found it was well planted and handled our usual winding back-road "test track" in good fashion. In addition to a nimble feeling through the corners, the Sorento's interior is quiet and the ride comfortable.

The turbocharged engine also brings surprisingly good gas mileage measured on regular gas at 22 mpg city, 29 highway and 26 combined in front-wheel drive, and 21/28/24 with AWD. That's nearly as good as the smaller 2.5-liter at 24/29/26 in FWD. If gas mileage is imperative, opt for the Hybrid with an excellent 39/35/37.

The Sorento's exterior styling is spot-on with crisp lines, bold fascias and distinctive details exuding a stylish rugged elegance. The Kia signature "tiger nose" grille similar to the larger and very popular Telluride resides up front. In fact, we thought the Sorento looked like a slightly downsized version of Telluride. And that's a good thing. The interior is spacious and well designed. And for the first time, captain's chairs are available for the second row. The new crossover is totally an American product designed inside and out at Kia's Irving, Calif., studio.

The interior design blends tall-vertical-shaped air vents, integrated ambient lighting, and intricately stitched surfaces on the door panels and seat inserts. The center console hosts a rotary shift knob as well as a drive-mode selector and other vehicle functions. A variety of storage spots and cupholders are located in the console.

Infotainment and connectivity features are extremely important these days, and the Sorento is at the forefront of new-car technology, supporting loads of desirable content. It comes standard with an 8.0-inch or the aforementioned optional 10.3-inch touchscreen. Along with a wireless charging pad, there's also a 12-speaker Bose sound system  available for those who prefer an upscale audio experience. And we can attest to its pleasing sound.

If you use the third row for little passengers, it will cut into your cargo space leaving only 12.6 cubic feet behind the seat. However, if you choose to keep the rear-most seats folded, cargo space increases to 38.5 cubic feet, and balloons to 75.5 cubic feet with all rear seatbacks folded.

The base LX starts at $32,170 and is well equipped with the standard 191-horsepower engine, seven-passenger seating, 8-inch infotainment screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, and such safety features as forward collision mitigation, driver attention warning, lane departure mitigation, lane keep system, and backup camera. The lineup tops out with the SX Prestige X-Line. Our X-line test vehicle carried a bottom line of $44,285 including a $1,170 destination charge.

Like its big brother the Telluride, we think the all-new Sorento with its choice of three drivetrains (soon to be four with a plug-in hybrid on the way), eye-catching styling, standard safety features, and all-around comfort and utility will become one of if not the most popular crossover in the compact segment.

2021 Kia Sorento X-Line

Essentials

Base price: $43,760; as driven, $44,285
Engine: turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 281 @ 5,800 rpm
Torque: 311 foot-pounds @ 1,700 rpm
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drive: all-wheel
Seating: 2/2/3
Wheelbase: 110.8 inches
Length: 189 inches
Curb weight: 4,120 pounds
Turning circle: 37.9 feet
Luggage capacity: 12.6/38.5 cubic feet
Cargo capacity: 75.5 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds
Fuel capacity: 17.7 gallons (regular)
EPA rating: 21 city, 28 highway, 24 combined
0-60: 6.5 seconds (Car and Driver)
Also consider: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Bronco Sport

The Good
• Energetic engine
• Third-row seat available
• Easy-to-use infotainment system
• Loaded with safety technology

The Bad
• Small cargo area with third row up

The Ugly
• X-line can take price to $45,000