2024 Kia Sportage vs Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento and Sportage could serve many of the same drivers. They are both good family cars, excellent commuters, and long distance sprinters. 

They have somewhat similar packaging with the same high tech toys available or standard on both. Here’s how these two Kia SUVs go up against each this model year.

1. Two Row vs 3 Row SUV

   To many shoppers, the third row in the 2024 Kia Sorento is the main aspect to be considered. Otherwise, families will happily look at the Sportage, too. It has more space than most in its class, and this means a big backseat with plenty of cargo space.

   On the exterior, the Sorento is a bit longer and taller than the Sportage. That allows it to have a third row. While it has a small cargo hold, the Sorento has a generous 38.5 cubic feet beyond the second row. Sorento families have the ability to choose between extra seats and extra cargo space at a moment's notice.  

   However, families still have many reasons to favor the 2024 Kia Sportage vs Sorento when it comes to size. There’s plenty of second row space with 41.3 inches of legroom.  

   Furthermore, the cargo hold has 36.6 cubes in the cargo hold and can expand that to 39.6 cubic feet. The secret to gaining more space is the dual-level cargo floor.  

2. Gas Engines

   Naturally the Sorento has a slight edge in power output as the bigger of the two SUVs. Plus the 2024 Kia Sorento is offered in a high-powered performance engine that delivers 311 lb-ft of torque to assist its 281 horsepower.

   Standard Sportage output is 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Sorento output is 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. These two come in front-wheel or all-wheel drive models and have an 8-speed automatic transmission.  

3. Sorento vs Sportage Utility

   With the standard engine, the 2024 Kia Sportage can tow 500 lbs more than the Sorento. However, the high-performance engine allows the Sorento to reclaim the lead in that area.

   Both of these SUVs can be equipped for rugged use, but It should be noted that the compact Kia SUV has more standard ground clearance with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive.  

   Sorento X-Line models gain an inch of ground clearance and more capability. However, the 2024 Sportage X Pro trim is the best equipped off-roader of the two. It has extra ground clearance and beefy BF Goodrich tires.  

   Drivers can choose specific settings on a multi-terrain system to get the best traction on dirt, mud or sand. Your Phoenix Kia dealer staff has the answers you need if you want an SUV for towing or off-roading.  

4. Hybrid Engines

   So what’s the difference between Sorento vs Sportage hybrids?

   The 2024 Kia Sportage HEV offers to drive faster and smarter. The hybrid-electric lineup (HEV) includes four trim levels. The hybrid turbo engine delivers 177 horsepower and a very helpful 195 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is either 38 or 43 mpg combined, depending on the trim level.  

    Ready to go faster and further, the 2024 Kia Sportage PHEV is a plug in hybrid. It earns 35 mpg in combined driving, but it also has an all-electric range that’s perfect for the daily commuter. This allows it to claim 84 mpg-equivalent.

   Output is solid at a combined rate of 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It runs just fine on regular unleaded, keeping costs low.  

   Sorento Hybrids come in EX FWD, EX AWD, and SX-P trim levels. Output is 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is 37 mpg (FWD) or 34 mpg (AWD) in combined driving.  

   The Sorento PHEV is offered with the SX-P trim level. It has the same plug-in capability of the Sportage PHEV. This 3 row SUV promises 79 mpg-equivalent in combined driving.  

5. Ratings and Recognition

   When it comes to value, the new Kia Sportage has proven itself in spades. It earned the Top Compact SUV from the J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study in 2023. It nabbed a spot on the Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX List. Money Magazine gave it the Best Value Award for its class in 2023.

   The new generation made the Autotrader’s 11 Best New Cars of 2023 List. And now the 2024 Kia Sportage has earned the all important IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus. US News and World Report praises it for its extensive rear legroom and cavernous cargo hold.  

   The Sorento lineup is no stranger to awards either. It earned a 2022 Editors’ Choice Award at Car and Driver and a 2022 Top Safety Pick Plus Award. In the first year of this Sorento generation, it took home a Best Car for the Money Award from US News and World Report.  

   Currently Autoblog and Kelley Blue Book rate the Sorento at number 3 in its crowded midsize 3 row class. Motor Trend likes what it calls the Sorento’s newly toughened up looks.  

Conclusion

The Sportage and Sorento hold many good qualities in common. For most shoppers, choosing between them will come down to the need for five seats or seven seats. If you are focused on utility, you can tow more with the turbo Sorento or do more off-road with the Sportage X-Pro.

Check out the Sorento vs Sportage side by side at our Phoenix Kia dealership. Earnhardt Peoria Kia offers a large selection of Kia SUVs. Why not schedule a test drive?