2026 Kia Sorento Research: Trims, Specs & Features
The 2026 Kia Sorento is a three-row SUV that perfectly balances family-friendly utility with adventurous capability. It offers a sophisticated and rugged design, seating for up to seven passengers, and a choice of powerful and efficient engines. With standard third-row seating, available all-wheel drive, and a cabin packed with next-generation technology, the Sorento is engineered to adapt to every part of your life. This versatile SUV is now available for you to explore in our new Kia inventory at Mike Kelly Kia.
- Introducing the 2026 Sorento
- Key Features
- Why Lease
- Trim Levels
- Modern Exterior Styling
- Engine Options and Driving Dynamics
- Advanced Safety and Security
- Technology and Connectivity
- Cabin Comfort and Versatility
- Find Your 2026 Sorento
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introducing the 2026 Kia Sorento
The 2026 Sorento arrives with a confident, modern design and a feature set aimed at providing comfort, safety, and power. Drivers can choose between a capable 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or a potent 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers an impressive 281 horsepower. Inside, the cabin is a showcase of technology, featuring a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Every 2026 Sorento is equipped with an extensive suite of Kia Drive Wise safety features, including Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, making it a secure choice for family transportation.
Key Features of the 2026 Kia Sorento
The 2026 Sorento stands out with its standard three-row seating and a robust selection of features. The available turbocharged engine, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, provides responsive and powerful acceleration. For those seeking adventure, the X-Line and X-Pro models offer standard all-wheel drive with a center-locking differential, higher ground clearance, and rugged body styling. The X-Pro trim further enhances this capability with 17-inch all-terrain tires and an increased towing capacity of 4,500 pounds. Inside, the Sorento offers premium amenities like available second-row captain's chairs, a Smart Power Liftgate, and an available panoramic sunroof. The cockpit can be equipped with dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays, creating a seamless digital hub for navigation and vehicle information.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-Cylinder (191 hp) or 2.5L Turbo (281 hp) |
| Seating Capacity | Standard 7-passenger (3-row) or available 6-passenger |
| Standard Tech | 12.3-inch Touchscreen w/ Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto ™ |
| Available Tech | Dual 12.3-inch Panoramic Displays, Bose® Premium Audio |
| Standard Safety | Kia Drive Wise suite with Smart Cruise Control & Blind-Spot Detection |
| Cargo Space | 12.6 cu. ft. (behind 3rd row) |
| Capability | Available All-Wheel Drive; X-Pro trim w/ 4,500-lb. towing |
Why Lease the 2026 Kia Sorento?
Leasing a 2026 Kia Sorento at Mike Kelly Kia is an excellent choice for drivers in Butler, PA, who want to enjoy the latest SUV technology and performance for a lower monthly payment. Leasing allows you to drive a new vehicle every few years, ensuring you are always covered by Kia's outstanding factory warranty and benefiting from the newest safety and comfort features. Our finance team is ready to show you our flexible lease terms and current new vehicle specials to help you get behind the wheel of a Sorento trim that fits your budget.
2026 Sorento Trim Levels
The 2026 Kia Sorento is available in a wide array of trims, allowing you to find the perfect blend of efficiency, power, and rugged capability.
LX
The LX trim provides exceptional value, equipped with the 2.5L 191-hp engine, 7-passenger seating, 17-inch alloy wheels, and the standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
S
The S trim adds more style and convenience with 18-inch alloy wheels, SynTex seat trim, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver's seat, and a wireless phone charger.
EX
Moving up to the EX introduces the powerful 2.5L turbocharged 281-hp engine with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. It also adds 20-inch alloy wheels, second-row captain's chairs for 6-passenger seating, and a Smart Power Liftgate.
SX
The SX trim enhances the tech and luxury, featuring the available dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays, a Bose® premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and heated and ventilated front seats for maximum comfort.
X-Line EX AWD
This trim takes the features of the EX and adds standard all-wheel drive, 8.2 inches of ground clearance, X-Line body styling, and high-utility roof rails.
X-Line SX AWD / SX-Prestige AWD
These trims combine the rugged X-Line exterior with the premium features of the SX and SX-Prestige models, including advanced safety features like the Blind-Spot View Monitor.
X-Pro SX Prestige AWD
The most capable Sorento, the X-Pro is built for the trail. It features 17-inch matte black alloy wheels with all-terrain tires and an increased towing capacity of 4,500 pounds.
| Trim Level | Engine | Horsepower | Drivetrain | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LX | 2.5L 4-Cylinder | 191 hp | FWD | 7-Pass Seating, 12.3-in Screen, Wireless Apple CarPlay®, Smart Cruise Control |
| S | 2.5L 4-Cylinder | 191 hp | FWD / Avail. AWD | SynTex Seats, Heated Front Seats, 18-in Alloys, Wireless Charger |
| EX | 2.5L Turbo | 281 hp | FWD/Avail. AWD | 6-Pass Seating, 20-in Alloys, 8-Speed DCT, Smart Power Liftgate |
| SX | 2.5L Turbo | 281 hp | FWD/Avail. AWD | Dual 12.3-in Displays, Bose® Audio, Panoramic Sunroof, Ventilated Seats |
| X-Line EX AWD | 2.5L Turbo | 281 hp | Std. AWD | X-Line Styling, 8.2-in Ground Clearance, High-Utility Roof Rails |
| X-Pro SX Prestige AWD | 2.5L Turbo | 281 hp | Std. AWD | 17-in All-Terrain Tires, 4,500-lb. Towing, X-Pro Styling |
Modern Exterior Styling
The 2026 Kia Sorento features a bold, confident exterior that blends SUV toughness with refined style. The front end is defined by its signature grille and striking LED projector headlights. Its profile is both athletic and elegant, with available 20-inch alloy wheels and gloss-black accents. For those who need extra capability, the X-Line and X-Pro models feature unique, rugged front and rear bumpers, high-utility roof rails, and increased ground clearance for a more assertive stance.
Engine Options and Driving Dynamics
The 2026 Sorento offers two distinct gasoline engine choices to match your driving needs. The 2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine, standard on the LX and S trims, produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. For those who desire more power, the EX, SX, X-Line, and X-Pro trims come standard with the 2.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine. This 281-horsepower engine delivers 311 lb-ft of torque through a quick-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing strong acceleration and a 3,500-pound towing capacity (4,500 pounds on X-Pro). Front-wheel drive is standard on non-X-Line trims, while an available all-wheel-drive system with a center-locking differential provides enhanced traction in challenging weather conditions.
| Powertrain | Drivetrain | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4-Cylinder | FWD | 23 | 31 | 26 |
| 2.5L 4-Cylinder | AWD | 23 | 28 | 25 |
| 2.5L Turbo | FWD | 20 | 29 | 23 |
| 2.5L Turbo | AWD | 20 | 27 | 23 |
Advanced Safety and Security
Safety is a top priority in the 2026 Kia Sorento, which comes equipped with the robust Kia Drive Wise suite of driver-assistance features. Standard on every trim, this suite includes:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Higher trims offer even more advanced systems, such as a 360° Surround View Monitor for a complete view around the vehicle, and the Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live video feed of your blind spot in the instrument cluster.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2026 Sorento is a leader in in-cabin technology. The standard 12.3-inch touchscreen is the hub for your entertainment, featuring seamless, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. This system allows you to access your maps, music, and messages without plugging in your phone. For a truly immersive experience, the available dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays combine the main touchscreen with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This creates a stunning, wide-screen interface for all your driving information and navigation. Other available technology features include a wireless phone charger, a Bose® premium audio system, and Kia Connect services, which allow you to remotely start your vehicle and adjust the climate from your smartphone.
Cabin Comfort and Versatility
Inside, the 2026 Sorento is designed for ultimate family comfort and flexibility. Standard 7-passenger seating includes a versatile second-row bench, while higher trims offer 6-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs that provide easier access to the third row. Premium materials are used throughout the cabin, from standard cloth to available SynTex seat trim and genuine leather options. Comfort can be enhanced with available heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Sorento also excels in practicality, offering 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. When you need more room, the split-folding rear seats can be lowered to open up a vast cargo area for luggage, groceries, or gear.
Find Your 2026 Sorento at Mike Kelly Kia
The 2026 Kia Sorento is the complete package, offering powerful engine choices, standard three-row seating, and some of the most advanced safety and technology features available. Whether you need a capable AWD adventurer or a comfortable and connected family hauler, the Sorento is ready to impress in our new Kia inventory. We also invite you to browse our selection of quality used Kia vehicles for even more options.
We invite you to visit us at Mike Kelly Kia to experience the 2026 Sorento in person. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you find the perfect trim for your lifestyle. Check our hours and directions and stop by our dealership at 252 Pittsburgh Road Suite A, Butler, PA 16002. You can also contact us or call our sales team at 724-602-2812 to schedule your test drive today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What's new for the 2026 Kia Sorento?
The 2026 Sorento features a bold design and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ on the LX trim. It also introduced the rugged X-Pro trim, which is designed for off-road capability with all-terrain tires and a 4,500-lb. towing capacity.
Which 2026 Sorento trims have the turbocharged engine?
The 2.5L turbocharged engine (281 hp) comes standard on the EX, SX, X-Line EX AWD, X-Line SX AWD, X-Line SX-Prestige AWD, and X-Pro SX Prestige AWD trims.
Does the 2026 Kia Sorento have all-wheel drive?
Yes, all-wheel drive is available on the S, EX, and SX trims. It comes standard on all X-Line and X-Pro models.
Does the 2026 Kia Sorento have Apple CarPlay®?
Yes, wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ are standard on every 2026 Kia Sorento trim. Thanks to the new ccNC infotainment system, this wireless connectivity works on all models, including those with the standard 12.3-inch screen and those with the available dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays.
What is the difference between the Sorento X-Line and X-Pro?
Both are rugged, AWD-standard models. The X-Line focuses on style with 20-inch wheels, X-Line body styling, and 8.2 inches of ground clearance. The X-Pro is the most capable, with 17-inch all-terrain tires and a higher towing capacity of 4,500 pounds.
How many passengers can the 2026 Sorento seat?
The LX and S trims come standard with 7-passenger seating (second-row bench). The EX, SX, X-Line, and X-Pro trims come standard with 6-passenger seating (second-row captain's chairs).
What safety features are standard on the 2026 Sorento?
Every 2026 Sorento comes with the Kia Drive Wise safety suite, which includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Lane Keeping Assist.
Does the 2026 Sorento have a panoramic sunroof?
Yes, a panoramic sunroof is available, and it comes standard on the SX, X-Line SX, and X-Pro SX Prestige trims.
How much cargo space does the 2026 Sorento have?
The Sorento provides 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats. You can fold the third and second rows flat to accommodate much larger items.
Where can I test drive the 2026 Kia Sorento in Butler, PA?
You can test drive the 2026 Kia Sorento at Mike Kelly Kia. We are located at 252 Pittsburgh Road Suite A, Butler, PA 16002. Contact us or call our sales team at 724-602-2812 to set up your visit!
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.