2021 Kia Sorento

2021 Kia Sorento Highlights

The 2021 model year marks a complete redesign for the Kia Sorento, introducing a new platform, enhanced styling, and expanded powertrain options.

Key Details

• Midsize crossover SUV body style
• Three-row and six- or seven-passenger seating
• Complete exterior redesign with bolder styling
• New larger platform improving interior space
• Introduction of hybrid powertrain option
• Multiple engine choices, including turbo options
• Available all-wheel drive system

Benefits

• Choice of conventional or hybrid powertrains
• Improved passenger and cargo space
• Enhanced technology features
• Comprehensive safety systems
• Available luxury amenities
• Competitive fuel economy
• Strong value proposition in the segment

Related: Here Are The Kia Sorento Years To Avoid

2021 Kia Sorento Overview

Performance

The 2021 Kia Sorento offers three powertrain options:

2.5-liter four-cylinder engine:

• 191 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque
• Eight-speed automatic transmission
• Available in LX and S trims

2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder:

• 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque
• Eight-speed dual-clutch transmission
• Available in EX, SX, and SX Prestige trims

1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid:

• Combined 227 horsepower
• Six-speed automatic transmission
• Standard front-wheel drive

Key performance features include:

• Drive mode selector
• Available all-wheel drive with terrain modes
• Hill-start assist control
• Downhill brake control

Non-hybrid models offer available all-wheel drive, enhancing capability in various weather conditions.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2021 Kia Sorento a four-star (out of five) overall safety rating. Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2021 Sorento a Top Safety Pick when equipped with specific headlights. This is the group’s second-highest designation.

Standard safety features include:

• Advanced airbag system
• Electronic stability control
• Vehicle stability management
• Hill-start assist control
• Tire pressure monitoring system

Advanced driver assistance features include:

• Forward collision avoidance assist
• Lane-keeping assist
• Driver attention warning
• Blind-spot collision avoidance assist
• Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist
• Highway driving assist
• Safe exit assist

Driving

The 2021 Kia Sorento offers a driving experience that balances comfort with engagement. The new platform provides improved stability and handling compared to its predecessor.

The base 2.5-liter engine delivers adequate power for daily driving, while the turbocharged version offers a more spirited performance. The hybrid powertrain provides a good balance of efficiency and responsiveness.

Different drive modes allow drivers to customize the vehicle's response:

• Eco for maximum efficiency
• Comfort for daily driving
• Sport for enhanced response
• Smart for adaptive behavior

The all-wheel drive system, when equipped, enhances traction and includes terrain modes for different surfaces:

• Snow
• Mud
• Sand

Interior

The 2021 Kia Sorento's interior showcases significant design, materials, and technology integration improvements.

Key interior features include:

• Seating for six or seven passengers
• Available captain's chairs for the second row
• 50/50 split-folding third row
• Available leather upholstery
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Available heated second-row seats

Cargo capacity measurements:

• 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row
• 45 cubic feet with the third row folded
• 75.5 cubic feet with both rows folded

The front seats offer good comfort and support, with ample adjustment range. Second-row space is generous, particularly with captain's chairs. While tight for adults, the third row provides useful occasional seating for children.

Technology

The 2021 Kia Sorento comes equipped with a range of technology features:

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system (standard)
• Available 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Available wireless phone charging
• USB ports for all three rows

Fuel Economy

The 2021 Kia Sorento's fuel economy varies by powertrain configuration. EPA fuel economy estimates for the Sorento are:

2.5-liter four-cylinder engine:

• FWD (mpg): 24 city / 29 highway / 26 combined
• AWD (mpg): 23 city / 25 highway / 24 combined

2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine:

• FWD (mpg): 22 city / 29 highway / 25 combined
• AWD (mpg): 21 city / 28 highway / 24 combined

1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid:

• FWD (mpg): 39 city / 35 highway / 37 combined

2021 Kia Sorento Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book for the 2021 Kia Sorento are generally acceptable, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5. The Sorento gets above-average owner scores for comfort and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Multiple powertrain options, including hybrid
• Upscale interior design and materials
• Comprehensive technology features
• Strong safety ratings and features
• Flexible seating configurations
• Competitive fuel economy
• Available luxury amenities
• Good value in the segment

Problems

• The third row is best suited for children
• Limited cargo space behind the third row
• Some road noise with larger wheels
• Dual-clutch transmission may feel different from traditional automatic
• Hybrid available only in front-wheel drive

Explore: Which Years Of Used Kia Sorentos Are Most Reliable?

CoPilot's Take

The 2021 Kia Sorento represents a significant step forward in the midsize SUV segment. The complete redesign improves styling, technology, and efficiency while maintaining competitive pricing and a strong value proposition.

One of the Sorento's key strengths is its variety of powertrain options. Adding a hybrid variant and an upcoming plug-in model provides choices for different needs and priorities. The turbocharged engine option delivers robust performance, while the hybrid offers impressive fuel economy.

The interior shows notable improvements in both design and materials. While the third row is tight for adults, the flexible seating configurations and overall space utilization make it a practical choice for families. The technology integration is well-executed, with user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive features.

However, potential buyers should consider a few downsides. The third row is best suited for occasional use or children. Cargo space behind the third row is limited compared to some competitors. While efficient, the dual-clutch transmission in turbocharged models may require some adjustment for drivers who are used to traditional automatics.

2021 Kia Sorento FAQs

What should I pay for a 2021 Kia Sorento?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2021 Kia Sorento costs $16,000 to $36,000, depending on condition, mileage, equipment, and marketplace demand.

How many miles will a 2021 Kia Sorento last?

A 2021 Kia Sorento can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. Several factors affect longevity:

Maintenance:

• Regular oil changes
• Following service schedule
• Prompt repairs
• Using quality parts

Driving Conditions:

• Highway vs. city miles
• Climate conditions
• Driving style
• Load carried

Care Practices:

• Regular cleaning
• Proper storage
• Following break-in period
• Not overloading

How many gallons of gas does the 2021 Kia Sorento hold?

The 2021 Kia Sorento's fuel tank capacity varies by powertrain:

Non-hybrid models: 17.7 gallons

Hybrid models: 15.9 gallons

Approximate driving range:

• Non-hybrid FWD: up to 513 miles
• Non-hybrid AWD: up to 425 miles
• Hybrid: up to 588 miles

Actual range depends on the following:

• Driving conditions
• Driving style
• Climate
• Load
• Terrain

What is the predicted reliability of a 2021 Kia Sorento?

It's too early to make definitive statements about the 2021 Sorento's long-term reliability, as this represents the first year of a complete redesign. While Kia has a generally positive reputation for reliability, reports filed with NHTSA and carcomplaints.com indicate some examples have experienced engine and drivetrain issues, raising concerns about dependability. Key considerations:

First-Year Model:

• New platform and powertrains
• Limited real-world data
• Potential early production issues

Warranty Coverage:

• 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (doesn’t apply to subsequent owners)
• It provides some peace of mind

Mixed Reports:

• Some engine-related complaints
• Transmission concerns noted
• Electronic system issues reported

Given these factors, potential buyers should:

• Have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic
• Review service records carefully
• Research specific powertrains of interest
• Consider an extended warranty
• Stay current with any recalls or technical service bulletins

As more data becomes available, a clearer picture of the 2021 Sorento's reliability will emerge.

Check Out: How Long Do Kia Sorentos Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan