In the crowded midsize SUV space, standing out takes more than sharp styling or a long features list. It requires balance between comfort and capability, efficiency and performance, technology and usability. The 2022 Kia Sorento manages that balancing act with surprising confidence, evolving from a dependable family hauler into a genuinely versatile, near-premium SUV that adapts to very different lifestyles without feeling compromised.
For 2022, the Sorento lineup expands in meaningful ways rather than flashy gimmicks. The biggest news is the arrival of a plug-in hybrid variant, which joins the existing gasoline and conventional hybrid options. This means buyers can now choose from four distinct powertrain philosophies, ranging from traditional internal combustion to electrified daily driving, all within the same well-designed body.
Design that blends rugged and refined
The Sorento’s exterior walks a careful line. It looks athletic without being aggressive, upscale without appearing overstyled. The squared-off shoulders, wide grille, and slim LED lighting give it a planted, confident stance, while X-Line trims lean into a more adventurous personality with higher ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive.
Inside, the cabin is where the Sorento quietly punches above its weight. Materials feel thoughtful, especially in higher trims, and the layout prioritizes usability over novelty. Controls fall easily to hand, the driving position suits long journeys, and the third row while still best for children feels more usable than many rivals in this segment.
I still remember spending an entire afternoon behind the wheel of a Sorento on mixed city and highway roads, and what stood out most wasn’t any single feature, it was how relaxed and unintimidating the whole driving experience felt.
Powertrains for very different drivers
One of the Sorento’s strongest advantages is choice. Kia didn’t assume every buyer wants the same thing, and the engine lineup reflects that.
The standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder is tuned for everyday use. It won’t thrill, but it delivers predictable power and respectable fuel economy, making it well-suited to commuting, school runs, and weekend errands.
Step up to the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine and the character changes noticeably. With significantly more torque, acceleration feels confident even with passengers and cargo on board. Merging onto highways or overtaking slower traffic becomes effortless, especially when paired with all-wheel drive.
The hybrid option targets efficiency-focused drivers without sacrificing usability. Its electric motor smooths out low-speed driving, making stop-and-go traffic quieter and more refined. For many urban families, this variant strikes the best balance between fuel savings and convenience.
Then there’s the plug-in hybrid, which adds a layer of flexibility few competitors offer. With enough electric-only range for short daily trips, some owners may find themselves visiting fuel stations far less often—yet still enjoying the freedom of a gasoline engine for longer journeys.
Technology that supports, not distracts
Technology in modern SUVs often walks a fine line between helpful and overwhelming. The Sorento mostly lands on the right side. From the S trim upward, a large touchscreen with navigation comes standard, offering crisp graphics and intuitive menus. Wireless connectivity, voice commands, and seamless smartphone integration make it easy to stay connected without digging through submenus.
Driver-assistance systems are another strong point. Features like forward collision avoidance, lane following assist, and driver attention monitoring are standard, reinforcing a sense of security even on lower trims. Higher models add advanced highway assistance, smart cruise control that adapts to road curves, and parking collision avoidance—features that genuinely reduce fatigue on longer drives rather than just sounding impressive on paper.
Space and practicality in real life
Numbers tell one story, but real-world usability tells another. On paper, the Sorento offers up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded flat. In practice, that translates into genuine flexibility.
Imagine a family road trip: luggage stacked neatly behind the second row, kids comfortable in the back, and still enough space for groceries picked up along the way. Or consider a weekend hardware run, where folding seats transform the Sorento into a surprisingly capable cargo carrier without requiring a pickup truck.
This versatility is what makes the Sorento particularly appealing to buyers who need one vehicle to serve many roles—daily commuter, family transporter, and occasional adventure companion.
How it stacks up against key rivals
Rather than relying on marketing language, it helps to see how the Sorento compares against familiar names in the midsize SUV segment:
| Vehicle | Powertrain Options | Electrification Availability | Interior Flexibility | Technology Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sorento | Gas, Turbo, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid | Hybrid & PHEV | High (3-row, flexible seating) | Strong driver assistance |
| Toyota Highlander | Gas, Hybrid | Hybrid only | High but bulkier | Conservative, proven tech |
| Honda Pilot | Gas only | None | Spacious but less efficient | Practical, minimal electrification |
| Mazda CX-9 | Turbo gas only | None | Sporty but tighter third row | Driver-centric |
This comparison highlights a subtle advantage: few rivals offer such a wide range of powertrains under one nameplate, especially with a plug-in hybrid option.
Ownership considerations and long-term value
Beyond features and specs, long-term ownership matters. Kia’s reputation for reliability has steadily improved over the years, and strong warranty coverage adds peace of mind—particularly for buyers new to the brand.
Fuel efficiency across the lineup helps reduce running costs, while the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models offer tangible savings for drivers with predictable daily routines. Add in competitive pricing across trims, and the Sorento positions itself as a value-forward option that doesn’t feel budget-driven.
Why the 2022 Sorento makes sense today
The real strength of the 2022 Sorento lies in how naturally it adapts to changing needs. A young professional might start with a fuel-efficient hybrid, later appreciating the space for a growing family. An adventure-minded buyer could opt for an X-Line trim, while someone focused on sustainability may gravitate toward the plug-in hybrid.
Instead of forcing buyers into a single identity, the Sorento flexes with them—and that’s a rare quality in this segment.
Related: 2021 Kia Sorento Overview
Conclusion
The 2022 Kia Sorento isn’t trying to be the loudest or flashiest midsize SUV on the road. Instead, it succeeds by being thoughtfully engineered, broadly adaptable, and quietly confident. With its wide range of powertrains, refined interior, strong safety tech, and real-world practicality, it appeals to buyers who value substance over hype. Whether you’re navigating daily city traffic, planning long highway trips, or preparing for a more electrified future, the Sorento proves itself as a well-rounded companion rather than just another SUV option.
FAQs
Is the 2022 Sorento suitable for families?
Yes. Its three-row seating, strong safety features, and flexible cargo space make it well-suited for family use, especially for those who occasionally need extra passenger capacity.
Which engine option is best for fuel efficiency?
The hybrid delivers excellent fuel economy for daily driving, while the plug-in hybrid can significantly reduce fuel use if you frequently drive short distances and can charge regularly.
Does the Sorento feel underpowered with the base engine?
For normal commuting and city driving, the base engine is adequate. Drivers who prioritize quicker acceleration or frequent highway use may prefer the turbocharged option.
How does the Sorento handle long trips?
Its comfortable ride, supportive seats, and advanced driver assistance systems make long-distance driving less tiring than many competitors.
Is the plug-in hybrid worth the premium?
For drivers with predictable daily routes and access to charging, the plug-in hybrid can offer long-term fuel savings and a quieter driving experience, making the higher upfront cost easier to justify over time.
