Get ready to rumble as the Sorento enters the ring against the Toyota Highlander. The Sorento may seem like an underdog to the incredibly popular Highlander, but it actually packs some serious punch. It has three advantages over the 2023 Toyota Highlander.
2023 Kia Sorento vs. 2023 Toyota Highlander
The 2023 Kia Sorento and 2023 Toyota Highlander are both excellent three-row SUVs to consider. But it seems the Highlander is the more popular option. This makes sense because it has a reliable reputation and high resale value.
for around $29,990, while the higher-end X-Line SX Prestige model bumps the price up to $43,590. Eight Kia Sorento wheels are available to meet the different needs of buyers.
The 2023 Highlander starts at $36,420, while the top-of-the-line Highlander Platinum trim raises the price to $49,275. Six configurations are available, but you can still save thousands on each Sorento option.
Both SUVs come with standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, LED headlights, keyless entry, 8.0-inch infotainment system, heated mirrors, forward collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assist.
But the Highlander also has three-zone climate control, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, keyless ignition and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
2. The 2023 Sorento has more engine options
The 2023 Kia Sorento starts with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque.
You can upgrade to the Kia Sorento Hybrid, which combines a turbocharged 1.6-litre inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to deliver 227PS and 258Nm of torque.
Additionally, the Sorento PHEV adds a battery pack to the 1.6-litre engine and electric motor to generate 261PS and 258Nm of torque.
Kicking off with a standard 2,4-liter four-cylinder engine with 265PS and 309Nm of torque. The Highlander Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors for 243PS and 310Nm of torque.
It doesn’t have a plug-in hybrid powertrain yet. The Sorento Hybrid is slightly more fuel efficient, and the Sorento has a .
3. The Sorento has more room for passengers
Both the 2023 and 2023 Kia Sorento have a tight third row. However, the Sorento’s third row offers slightly more room for passengers, while the Highlander is reserved for younger children.
However, the Highlander has more cargo space overall. Both SUVs have flat-folding seats with plenty of room for child seats. However, the Highlander does not have child seat anchorages in the third row.
Also, both SUVs have an abundance of compartments and trays for storing personal items. The Sorento and Highlander can also tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The Highlander may be more popular with a higher reliability ranking, but the Sorento keeps pace by being more affordable, having more configurations, being greener, and having more passenger space.
