Ever since its debut in 2020, the fourth-generation Kia Sorento has remained a reliable contender in the world of three-row SUVs. However, Kia has recognized the need for a significant rejuvenation, and in the forthcoming 2024 Sorento, we can expect substantial updates, with a particular focus on its front-end design. While Kia has yet to reveal all the details regarding the 2024 Sorento, one thing is clear: the Sorento is in for a major facelift.
Anticipate the 2024 Sorento to continue offering gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models, likely retaining the powertrains from the 2023 Sorento. Additionally, Kia is expected to maintain the choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. However, the most noticeable changes are found in its exterior, which has undergone a significant transformation.
EXTERIOR TRANSFORMATION: The 2024 Kia Sorento’s midcycle refresh is primarily centered around enhancing its visual appeal. Although not all the details have been unveiled, photos from the Korean market provide a glimpse of striking exterior updates. Among the standout changes are a revamped front fascia and redesigned taillights, breathing new life into the Sorento’s overall aesthetics.
The newly redesigned headlights and grille adopt a design language reminiscent of the sleek and contemporary aesthetics seen in the all-electric EV9, resulting in a more modern and sophisticated appearance.
INTERIOR ENHANCEMENTS: Inside the 2024 Kia Sorento, you’ll discover a welcoming ambiance characterized by an attractive layout, premium materials, and impeccable build quality. The dashboard has received a refreshing update, now featuring Kia’s latest infotainment software. A larger digital gauge cluster takes center stage behind the steering wheel, likely surpassing the 12.3-inch unit found in the current top-tier trims. The interior design also incorporates ambient lighting and sophisticated stitched surfaces on the door panels and seat inserts.
Images released by Kia hint at a console that offers multiple storage compartments and cupholders, underscoring Kia’s dedication to optimizing interior practicality. It appears that the Sorento will also continue to offer standard third-row seating, with the possibility of second-row captain’s chairs for added passenger comfort.
TECHNOLOGICAL UPGRADES: The updated Sorento is expected to feature larger and more modern touch screens compared to the current model’s 8-inch or optional 10.3-inch displays. Other tech features, such as the optional wireless charging pad, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, and a rear-seat entertainment system, are likely to carry over from the previous model.
VERSATILE POWERTRAINS: The current Kia Sorento offers a broad selection of engine choices and can be configured with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The standard powertrain consists of a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine, with an available 281-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder option. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For eco-conscious consumers, the Sorento hybrid combines a turbo 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 227 horsepower. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive Sorento plug-in hybrid employs a similar setup, producing a combined 261 horsepower due to a more potent electric motor.
While not officially confirmed, it’s highly likely that the 2024 Kia Sorento will continue to offer these powertrain configurations, ensuring that you’ll find a Sorento tailored to your specific needs.
TOWING CAPABILITY: While the Kia Sorento may not boast the towing capabilities of some larger SUVs, its modest towing capacity remains a valuable asset in various situations. When equipped with the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and the optional towing package, the 2023 Sorento can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Opting for the base naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine or forgoing the towing package reduces this figure to 2,000 pounds.
While it may not match the Kia Telluride’s impressive 5,000-pound towing capacity, the Sorento remains versatile, capable of towing jet skis or accommodating various lifestyle needs. Assuming that the 2024 model retains the same powertrain configurations, you can expect similar towing capabilities as the 2023 model.
FUEL EFFICIENCY: Official EPA estimates for the 2024 Sorento are still pending, but we don’t anticipate significant changes. Currently, the Sorento achieves up to 24 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The more powerful turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder yields ratings of 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The Sorento hybrid stands out as the most fuel-efficient option, with an estimated 39 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The plug-in hybrid model boasts a combined rating of 79 MPGe. In Hybrid mode, the Sorento plug-in hybrid garners EPA-estimated figures of 35 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Moreover, it can travel approximately 32 miles on electric power alone with a fully charged battery.
SAFETY: Kia has consistently offered an impressive suite of driver safety and assistance features in its vehicles, and the Kia Sorento is no exception. The Sorento boasts a comprehensive array of standard and optional driver-assistance technologies, ensuring peace of mind on the road. While substantial changes for 2024 are not expected, it’s possible that some optional safety features may become standard. Key safety elements encompass standard forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additionally, available features include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
WARRANTY: Kia’s warranty plan remains one of the most generous in the industry, offering long-term peace of mind. While it doesn’t include complimentary maintenance, it still provides substantial coverage. Kia offers a limited warranty covering five years or 60,000 miles, as well as a powertrain warranty providing 10 years or 100,000 miles of protection.
