Kia Sorento: Top 7 pros and 5 cons

Kia Sorento Pros and Cons: Kia recently launched the new Sorento in India, with two engine options: a 1.6-litre petrol-hybrid and a 2.2-litre diesel unit. The SUV is priced between Rs 27.99 lakh and Rs 40.39 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes in 6- and 7-seater configurations. A few days ago, I spent some time with the Kia Sorento in Udaipur, and here are its top pros and cons.

Kia Sorento Pros
1. It is a capable 7-seater with strong looks. It looks handsome, and the build quality feels solid.

2. The cabin is roomy and well-made. Everything fits together nicely. The quality of the materials is impressive. It comes in 6- and 7-seater configurations.

3. The engines are easy to live with. The 1.6-litre petrol-hybrid and the 2.2-litre diesel engine both feel easy to drive and are very efficient. AWD is also on offer.

4. The ride is comfortable and mature. The Sorento behaves in a grown-up way on the road. It feels very stable on the highway.

5. It has almost every feature I could ask for. It gets a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a digital IRVM and remote parking assist, Kia AI Assistant with real-time generative AI, a digital key, rear ventilated seats, and one-touch seat adjustment (Boss Mode). There is a 220V power outlet and six Type-C USB charging ports too. Captain seats are optional, and the list goes on.

6. Safety is top class too. The Sorento has earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. It comes with 10 airbags, 12 parking sensors and 5 radars. It gets a front and rear dashcam and a full set of electronic aids. The Level 2+ ADAS brings over 29 features.

7. With the third row folded down, you get a massive boot of 813 litres.

Kia Sorento Cons
1. The top variant feels expensive at around Rs 47 lakh on-road. However, the base and mid variants are priced well.

2. There is no FWD on the top variant. The top-end HTX comes only with AWD. That adds a Rs 5 lakh premium.

3. It isn't sporty. I didn’t find the hybrid or the diesel that much fun to drive. Brakes on the hybrid version lack bite and feel. Not very confidence-inspiring.

4. The design is getting old. This 4th-generation Sorento is over 6 years old globally. The 5th-generation model is expected to arrive towards the end of 2027.

5. The third row is strictly for children. Adults get almost zero thigh support here.