The 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid didn’t arrive quietly, it landed with a clear mission. Kia set out to solve a problem many families face: how to reduce fuel consumption without giving up space, comfort, or all-weather confidence. The result is a three-row SUV that blends electric driving with turbocharged performance in a way that still feels familiar, usable, and genuinely practical.
Built as part of Kia’s broader electrification roadmap, the Sorento PHEV sits at a sweet spot between traditional gas SUVs and full EVs. It offers electric-only driving for daily errands, long-range capability for road trips, and enough interior room to comfortably handle growing families—all without forcing lifestyle compromises.
Powertrain and Driving Character
At the heart of the 2022 Sorento PHEV is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a powerful electric motor. Together, they produce a combined 261 horsepower, routed through a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. Unlike many hybrids that prioritize efficiency over feel, this setup delivers confident acceleration that never feels strained, even with passengers on board.
The 13.8-kWh battery enables up to 32 miles of all-electric driving under ideal conditions enough for many commuters to complete a full day’s driving without using a drop of gasoline. Once the battery is depleted, the vehicle seamlessly transitions into hybrid operation, delivering a projected combined driving range of roughly 460 miles.
One thing that sets this model apart is its standard all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring. Snowy roads, wet highways, or uneven terrain don’t rattle the Sorento PHEV, making it a rare electrified SUV that still feels confident year-round.
How the Sorento PHEV Performs in Everyday Driving
Picture a weekday routine: school drop-off, a short commute, grocery runs, and an evening practice session across town. In this scenario, the Sorento PHEV can complete the entire day on electric power alone. Then comes the weekend—loading up the family for a 300-mile highway trip. No charging anxiety, no route planning around fast chargers. Just fuel up and go.
That flexibility is the core appeal here. This SUV doesn’t ask you to change how you live; it quietly adapts to your routine.
Interior Space and Everyday Comfort
Step inside, and the Sorento PHEV immediately feels more upscale than its price might suggest. The cabin is airy, thoughtfully designed, and genuinely spacious. With 143.8 cubic feet of passenger volume, it offers more room than any other plug-in hybrid SUV in its class, including best-in-segment second-row legroom.
Standard second-row captain’s chairs make access to the third row easier, while the six-passenger configuration feels intentional rather than cramped. Materials are soft-touch where it matters, with available perforated leather seating and subtle metallic accents elevating the overall experience.
From a driver’s perspective, visibility is excellent, seating is supportive, and long drives never feel tiring. I’ve personally spent several hours behind the wheel of a Sorento PHEV on mixed city and highway routes, and what stood out most was how quiet and composed the cabin remained—even at speed.
Technology That Feels Useful, Not Overwhelming
The Sorento PHEV is loaded with tech, but it avoids the common pitfall of complexity. The available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster delivers crisp, configurable information, while the 10.25-inch infotainment screen supports navigation, smartphone integration, and cloud-based routing.
Multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and a premium Bose audio system ensure passengers stay connected and entertained. Kia’s connected services allow remote start, climate control, vehicle tracking, and even surround-view image capture via smartphone—features that feel genuinely useful rather than gimmicky.
Safety and Driver Assistance Confidence
Safety is where the 2022 Sorento PHEV quietly outclasses many rivals. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance technologies, including forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring with active intervention, lane following assist, and highway driving assist.
Highway Driving Assist deserves special mention—it subtly adjusts speed based on traffic flow and posted limits while maintaining lane position, reducing fatigue on long drives without removing driver involvement.
Parents will appreciate features like Rear Occupant Alert, which uses sensors to detect movement in the back seats, adding an extra layer of reassurance during busy days.
How It Stacks Up Against Key Rivals
To understand where the Sorento PHEV truly shines, it helps to see how it compares with other electrified SUVs buyers often consider:
| Model | Horsepower | Electric Range | Seating | AWD | Passenger Space |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sorento PHEV | 261 hp | ~32 miles | 6 | Standard | Class-leading |
| Toyota RAV4 Prime | 302 hp | ~42 miles | 5 | Standard | Smaller |
| Volvo XC90 Recharge | 455 hp | ~32 miles | 7 | Standard | Larger but pricier |
While the RAV4 Prime offers more power and electric range, it lacks a third row. The XC90 Recharge delivers luxury and performance but at a significantly higher price point. The Sorento PHEV lands squarely in the middle, offering the best balance of space, efficiency, and value for families.
Ownership Benefits and Incentives
Depending on location, owners may qualify for state-level incentives, reduced registration fees, or access to carpool lanes—even with a single occupant. These benefits, combined with reduced fuel costs, can significantly lower the total cost of ownership over time.
Maintenance is also simpler than many expect. Regenerative braking reduces brake wear, and the hybrid system is engineered for long-term durability.
Why the 2022 Sorento PHEV Still Matters
Even years after its release, the 2022 Sorento PHEV remains a compelling option because it was designed around real needs, not trends. It doesn’t chase extreme performance numbers or futuristic styling. Instead, it focuses on livability—space, efficiency, safety, and confidence.
For families not ready to go fully electric, this SUV offers a smart, future-facing step forward without the stress.
Related: 2026 Kia Sorento HEV Overview
Conclusion
The 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV proves that electrification doesn’t have to mean compromise. With its class-leading interior space, usable electric range, confident all-wheel drive system, and thoughtful technology, it stands out as one of the most well-rounded plug-in hybrid SUVs ever produced. It’s not just an efficient vehicle—it’s a genuinely good family SUV that happens to be electrified.
FAQs
Is the 2022 Sorento PHEV good for daily commuting?
Yes. Many drivers can complete daily commutes entirely on electric power, significantly reducing fuel costs.
Can it handle long road trips?
Absolutely. Once the electric range is used, it functions like a hybrid SUV with a long combined driving range.
How many people can it seat comfortably?
The standard six-seat configuration with captain’s chairs offers excellent comfort for families.
Is all-wheel drive standard?
Yes, torque-vectoring all-wheel drive comes standard, enhancing confidence in all conditions.
Does it still make sense compared to newer models?
Yes. Its blend of space, efficiency, and features remains highly competitive even today.
