What's The Difference Between The Kia Sportage & Kia Sorento?
Uncover the differences and similarities between the Kia Sportage vs. Sorento with our comprehensive guide. These midsize SUVs each offer many benefits and versatility. Choosing the right model for you comes down to comparing the size, interior features, and technology. Our Gunther Motor Company team will help you consider your driving and lifestyle needs to find the right vehicle.
Kia Sportage vs. Sorento at a Glance
- The main difference between Kia Sportage and Sorento SUVs is that the Kia Sportage has two-row seating for five, and the Kia Sorento can seat up to seven passengers with three rows.
- The Kia Sorento offers more robust performance in terms of horsepower, torque, and towing capacity.
- The Kia Sportage offers better fuel economy than the Kia Sorento due to its smaller size.
- Each SUV is great for families, road trips, and commuting.
Explore our new Kia inventory to find the perfect Kia model for your lifestyle and needs today.
Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento Specs
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| 2025 Kia Sorento | 2025 Kia Sportage | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5L I-4 | 2.5L I-4 |
| Standard Horsepower | 191 | 187 |
| Standard Torque | 181 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs1 | 2,500 lbs1 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 23 / 31 / 262 | 25 / 32 / 282 |
| Seating Capacity | 6-7 | 5 |
Diving into the specs, the Kia Sorento stands out as the more powerful option between the two SUV models. Although they each feature a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the Kia Sorento lineup also offers a turbocharged version of its engine in higher-level trims. If you're seeking a three-row SUV with up to 4,500 pounds1 of towing capacity and modern features at a competitive price, the Kia Sorento with the available 281-horsepower engine is your best pick.
Alternatively, the Kia Sportage offers more efficient power. This two-row SUV can achieve up to an EPA-estimated 25/32 MPG (City/Highway),2 making it a great choice for drivers looking for an efficient commuter or road trip vehicle.
If you're ready to get into a new Kia vehicle today, explore our Kia lease deals to find great new Kia vehicle specials.
Kia Sorento Vs. Kia Sportage Size
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| 2025 Kia Sorento | 2025 Kia Sportage | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 189.6 - 189.8 in | 183.5 in |
| Width | 74.8 in | 73.4 in |
| Height | 66.7 - 70.3 in | 65.4 - 66.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 in | 108.5 in |
| Ground Clearance | 6.9 - 8.2 in | 7.1 - 8.3 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,814 - 4,250 lbs | 3,396 - 3,809 lbs |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd rows w/o sunroof) | 40.3 / 39.1 / 36.8 in | 39.6 / 39.4 in |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd rows) | 41.4 / 41.7 / 29.6 in | 41.4 / 41.3 in |
| Cargo Capacity (Behind 1st row / 2nd row / 3rd row) | 75.5 / 38.5 - 45.0 / 12.6 cu ft | 74.1 / 39.6 cu ft |
When comparing the Kia Sorento versus Sportage size and dimensions, the Kia Sorento is the larger SUV of the two. This SUV is up to 189.8 inches long and up to 70.3 inches tall. The true length and seating capacity varies slightly throughout the lineup of Kia Sorento trims.
The Kia Sportage SUV is a smaller, more maneuverable vehicle. This SUV is around six inches shorter in length. While its height depends on the model, there is less size variation with the Kia Sportage trim levels when compared to the Sorento.
Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento Interior
The biggest difference in the interior of the 2025 Kia Sportage vs. Sorento lies in the seating and cargo capacities.
The Kia Sorento provides three rows of seating for six to seven passengers, depending on your chosen trim level. In contrast, the 2025 Kia Sportage SUVs have two rows of seating for up to five passengers.
Although the Sorento offers more available passenger seating space, the extra row of seating means sacrificing some cargo volume. In the Kia Sportage, the trunk space offers 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space, with a maximum of 74.1 cubic feet when the Sportage SUV's rear seats are folded. The Sorento provides a minimum of 12.6 cubic feet. However, you can enjoy a maximum of 75.5 cubic feet if you fold the rear two rows down, making them comparably cargo capable.
Either model is a practical and versatile choice. You can further your research into your next family SUV by comparing the Kia Sportage vs. Hyundai Tucson.
Compare Kia Sportage and Sorento Features
Regardless of whether you select the new 2025 Kia Sportage or 2025 Kia Sorento SUV, you'll enjoy a well-appointed, comfortable interior filled with intuitive amenities, advanced technology, and cutting-edge safety and driver assistance features.
Each SUV is equipped with available dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents for passenger comfort throughout the entire cabin. In addition, both SUVs offer available heated and ventilated front seats in their higher trims. However, while the Sorento progresses from Black woven cloth seat trim to three different hues of leather upholstery, the Kia Sportage lives up to its sporty name with sporty, easy-to-clean SynTex upholstery on all but the entry-level trim.
When it comes to technology, the 2025 Kia Sportage offers a standard 8-inch touchscreen display but can substitute it for an available 12.3-inch touchscreen display with navigation. The Kia Sorento takes it up a notch with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen.
When you compare Kia Sportage and Sorento models in all vehicle inventory at our dealership, you'll find more compelling standard and available features in the Sorento. However, the smaller Kia Sportage is well-equipped with advanced tech, comfort, and safety features for a smaller starting price.
Take a Test Drive at Gunther Motor Company Today
The right SUV can make mornings with your family run more smoothly. Let us show you around our selection of comfortable, high-performing models that can support your everyday routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is bigger: Kia Sorento or Sportage?
The Kia Sorento is larger than the Kia Sportage SUV. The Sorento is around six inches longer and offers an additional row of seating compared to the Kia Sportage. The Kia Sorento provides seating for up to seven passengers, while there is five-passenger seating in the Sportage. However, the Sportage offers more standard cargo capacity than the Sorento due to the lack of third-row seating.
Why is the Kia Sportage so popular?
The Kia Sportage is popular due to its blend of affordability, reliability, and stylish design. This SUV offers a comfortable ride with advanced safety features and excellent cargo space. The fuel efficiency and strong performance of the Kia Sportage appeal to many drivers, making it a versatile choice for both city and highway driving. This SUV is an all-around practical model for families and commuters alike.
Which Kia Sportage model is best?
Choosing the best Kia Sportage model depends on individual preferences and needs. The LX model offers great value with essential features, while the Sportage X-Line AWD model provides a rugged aesthetic and additional technology. The EX balances comfort and advanced features, making it a popular choice. If you want all the top amenities, the X-Pro Prestige ups the ante with powerful performance and premium features.
Is the Kia Sorento roomy?
The Kia Sorento is a roomy SUV with seating for up to seven passengers, depending on the model. This vehicle provides up to 75.5 cubic feet of available cargo capacity behind the first row of seats, which is plenty of space for hauling a lot of cargo or long pieces of equipment. With all seats in use, the rear seat passengers have adequate headroom and legroom for comfort.
Contact us for more information on the Kia Sportage & Kia Sorento
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1Towing requires additional equipment. See Owner’s Manual for towing capacity, additional instructions and warnings. Always use caution while towing.
2Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
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