The 2022 Kia Sorento: Preview, Pricing, Features

The 2021 Kia Sorento marked the nameplate’s fourth generation and featured an all-new design. Though the 2022 rendition has yet to debut officially, Kia recently flaunted the latest model at the Chicago Autoshow in July. 

The midsize SUV does not have an official release date yet, but based on previous releases, drivers can expect the 2022 Kia Sorento to arrive late this fall. 

2022 Kia Sorento Overview: What’s New, MPG, Trims 

In its 2021 model, the Sorento was reimagined with a bolder exterior, upgraded cabin, and sleek new infotainment system. This redesign rivaled class leaders of midsize 3-row crossover SUVs, such as the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer. Both of these vehicles have hybrid options, and for the first time, the Sorento will also arrive with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model. 

Aside from its new PHEV model, the 2022 Sorento features minor cosmetic and safety upgrades. Nonetheless, the Sorento offers generous standard technology, a luxurious interior, and enough power for family-hauling. Another perk is its industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. 

The Sorento is fuel-efficient, promising an estimated 24 MPG city and 29 MPG highway for its base model. The turbocharged engine offers a similar estimate with 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. On its base AWD model, drivers can expect 23 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. Hybrid and plug-in hybrids are excellent on the road offering roughly 37 MPG city/highway.

The 2022 Kia Sorento will be available in six trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, SX Prestige, and SX Prestige X-Line. There are also three hybrid configurations: S, EX, and PHEV. Additionally, drivers can choose between 9 exterior colors. 

Engine + Powertrain

The 2022 Sorento will come with four powertrain options. The base model is powered by a naturally-aspirated inline-4 engine, which can be upgraded to a more potent turbocharged version. In addition, there will also be two hybrid options; a turbocharged hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. 

The base engine performs with 191-horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel drive options are available. On EX trims and higher, the turbocharged inline-4 performs at 281-horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Similar to the base, it is also linked with an 8-speed automatic transmission. However, it’s also dual-clutch, meaning it shifts faster.

For hybrid models, the engine makes a total output of 227-horsepower and a fuel economy rating of 37 MPG. This outperforms the hybrid models of the Highlander and Explorer. The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and is only available in FWD.

All-new for 2022 is the Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid. Like the conventional hybrid, it’s based on the same turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4 engine, but it’s paired with a 66.9-kW electric motor. The PHEV, unlike the conventional hybrid, can run on electricity alone without burning any gas. Kia estimates the PHEV will have an all-electric range of 30 miles before the gas engine kicks in. Official EPA range and fuel economy estimates are not available yet. 

Exterior 

Like the Telluride, the Sorento has a premium look combined with the ruggedness of an outdoorsy SUV. New for 2022 is minor cosmetic updates like Kia’s new logo on the grille, wheel, and tail, as well as interior upgrades. 

The Sorento has an attractive look, featuring Kia’s signature “tiger nose” grille and a distinct, horizontal LED headlight design. In addition, 20-inch sport alloy wheels and increased ground clearance come together to provide better off-road performance. 

For higher trims, the Sorento changes some features. For example, the S trim adds black exterior accents and roof rails. For the SX-Prestige model, the X-Line package adds revised bumpers with skid plates, a roof rack, and bold “Rust Color.”

Pictured: 2021 Sorento X-Line Interior

Interior 

The design philosophy of the Sorento is “Refined Boldness.” Kia drives this home with an upscale interior, comfortable 6-to-7 passenger cabin, and versatile cargo space. While 7 seats are standard, turbocharged models will receive a 2nd-row captain’s chair, making for a roomy 6-seat cabin. Additional features include open-pore wood interior trim, diamond-quilted leather seats, and luxe satin finishes. 

Though the Sorento is smaller compared to other midsize 3-row SUVs, it maximizes interior space. For example, there is 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. When folded down, that blooms to 38.4 cubic feet. For a vehicle that’s on the smaller side in its class, that’s both efficient and practical. 

Pricing and release date

At the time of writing, the 2022 Kia Sorento is not available. Drivers can expect an official debut soon. Though prices are not concrete, the base model of the Kia Sorento is expected to start at around $30,000. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest Kia news. 

In the meantime, you can shop our current selection of Sorento’s here. We also have a vast inventory of new and used vehicles for sale. For all additional questions, please contact us.