# Kia Sorento specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2027
- **MPG (combined):** 23-37
- **Drive:** AWD, FWD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2027

## Quick answer

The 2027 Kia Sorento is a small SUV rated at 23-37 mpg combined. Engines: 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo.

## Every 2027 Kia Sorento version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Sorento Hybrid FWD | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid | FWD | Automatic | 37/36 | 37 mpg | $1,800 | 240 g/mi |
| Sorento Hybrid AWD | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid | AWD | Automatic | 32/35 | 34 mpg | $1,950 | 264 g/mi |
| Sorento FWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | FWD | Automatic | 23/31 | 26 mpg | $2,600 | 342 g/mi |
| Sorento AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl | AWD | Automatic | 23/28 | 25 mpg | $2,700 | 359 g/mi |
| Sorento FWD | 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | FWD | Automatic | 20/29 | 23 mpg | $2,900 | 382 g/mi |
| Sorento AWD | 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | AWD | Automatic | 20/27 | 23 mpg | $2,900 | 390 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Kia Sorento specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2027 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-37 |
| 2026 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 1.6L 4-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-37 |
| 2025 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 1.6L 4-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-36 |
| 2024 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 1.6L 4-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 23-37 |
| 2023 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 1.6L 4-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 24-37 |
| 2022 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; 1.6L 4-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 24-37 |
| 2021 | 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 24-37 |
| 2020 | 2.4L 4-cyl; 3.3L V6 | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 20-25 |
| 2019 | 2.4L 4-cyl; 3.3L V6 | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 21-25 |
| 2018 | 2.4L 4-cyl; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 3.3L V6 | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 19-24 |
| 2017 | 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.4L 4-cyl; 3.3L V6 | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 19-24 |
| 2016 | 3.3L V6; 2.0L 4-cyl turbo; 2.4L 4-cyl | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 19-24 |
| 2015 | 3.3L V6; 2.4L 4-cyl | Automatic | AWD, FWD | 20-23 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Sorento changed over the years?

- **2027:** dropped 1.6L 4-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid.
- **2026:** combined mpg went from 23-36 to 23-37.
- **2025:** combined mpg went from 23-37 to 23-36.
- **2024:** combined mpg went from 24-37 to 23-37.
- **2022:** added 1.6L 4-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid.
- **2021:** added 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid, 2.5L 4-cyl and 2.5L 4-cyl turbo; dropped 2.4L 4-cyl and 3.3L V6.
- **2020:** combined mpg went from 21-25 to 20-25.
- **2019:** dropped 2.0L 4-cyl turbo.
- **2016:** added 2.0L 4-cyl turbo.

## What does it cost to run a Sorento?

The EPA puts the 2027 Kia Sorento's fuel cost at **$1,800-$2,900 a year**, against about $2,263 for other current small SUVs: roughly 4% more. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $11,750 in fuel.

## Sorento vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [Toyota RAV4](/vehicles/toyota-rav4) | Hybrid | 38-43 mpg | $1,550-$1,750 |
| [Toyota Corolla Cross](/vehicles/toyota-corolla-cross) | Gas, Hybrid | 30-42 mpg | $1,600-$2,250 |
| [Ford Escape](/vehicles/ford-escape) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 26-40 mpg | $1,700-$2,600 |
| [Honda CR-V](/vehicles/honda-cr-v) | Gas, Hybrid, Hydrogen | 29-40 mpg | $1,700-$2,300 |
| [Lexus NX](/vehicles/lexus-nx) | Gas, Hybrid | 24-40 mpg | $2,050-$3,400 |
| [Hyundai Tucson](/vehicles/hyundai-tucson) | Gas, Hybrid, Plug-in hybrid | 26-38 mpg | $1,750-$2,600 |
| [Mazda CX-50](/vehicles/mazda-cx-50) | Gas, Hybrid | 25-38 mpg | $1,750-$2,700 |
| [Lexus RX](/vehicles/lexus-rx) | Gas, Hybrid | 24-36 mpg | $2,300-$3,400 |

Other current small SUVs from other makes, most efficient first.

## Kia Sorento problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Engine | 1899 |
| Electrical System | 485 |
| Power Train | 419 |
| Exterior Lighting | 359 |
| Structure | 305 |
| Steering | 274 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 198 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 168 |

From 4,128 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2016**.

## Guides for common Kia Sorento problems

- **Engine** (1,899 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Electrical** (485 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (419 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Exterior lighting** (359 complaints): [headlight bulb replacement cost](/cost/headlight-bulb-replacement)
- **Steering** (274 complaints): [Why is my steering wheel hard to turn](/symptoms/steering-wheel-hard-to-turn) - [Why does my car pull to one side](/symptoms/car-pulls-to-one-side) - [Why does my steering wheel shake at high speeds](/symptoms/steering-wheel-shakes-at-high-speed) - [rack and pinion replacement cost](/cost/rack-and-pinion-replacement) - [power steering pump replacement cost](/cost/power-steering-pump-replacement) - [tie rod replacement cost](/cost/tie-rod-replacement)

## Kia Sorento warning lights

- [Sorento: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/kia-sorento): 578 complaints
- [Sorento: Oil pressure warning light](/warning-lights/oil-pressure/kia-sorento): 216 complaints
- [Sorento: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/kia-sorento): 138 complaints
- [Sorento: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/kia-sorento): 81 complaints
- [Sorento: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/kia-sorento): 37 complaints
- [Sorento: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/kia-sorento): 36 complaints
- [Sorento: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/kia-sorento): 34 complaints
- [Sorento: Battery (charging system) warning light](/warning-lights/battery/kia-sorento): 29 complaints
- [Sorento: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/kia-sorento): 24 complaints
- [Sorento: Tire pressure (TPMS) light](/warning-lights/tire-pressure/kia-sorento): 14 complaints

## Kia Sorento recalls (26)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [26V046000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V046000) | 2025-2026 | Electrical System:  Instrument Cluster/Panel | 2026-01-27 |
| [25V745000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V745000) | 2026 | Tires: Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire | 2025-10-31 |
| [25V649000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V649000) | 2021-2023 | Electrical System: Wiring | 2025-09-26 |
| [25V548000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V548000) | 2025 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Critical Fasteners | 2025-08-25 |
| [25V006000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=25V006000) | 2024-2025 | Electrical System: Body Control Module | 2025-01-13 |
| [24V287000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V287000) | 2024 | Electrical System: Wiring | 2024-04-23 |
| [23V639000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V639000) | 2019 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2023-09-16 |
| [23V610000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V610000) | 2022-2023 | Back Over Prevention:  Sensing System | 2023-08-31 |
| [23V579000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=23V579000) | 2023 | Equipment: Other | 2023-08-15 |
| [22V760000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V760000) | 2021-2022 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2022-10-11 |
| [22V703000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V703000) | 2016-2022 | Trailer Hitches | 2022-09-19 |
| [22V612000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V612000) | 2016 | Power Train: Automatic Transmission | 2022-08-10 |
| [22V509000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V509000) | 2022 | Tires: Temporary/Emergency Spare Tire | 2022-07-19 |
| [22V202000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V202000) | 2022 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine | 2022-03-29 |
| [21V519000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V519000) | 2021 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2021-07-08 |
| [21V331000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V331000) | 2015 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip | 2021-05-10 |
| [20V519000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V519000) | 2015 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip | 2020-08-27 |
| [18V907000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V907000) | 2015-2017 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2018-12-19 |
| [18V656000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V656000) | 2018 | Steering: Electric Power Assist System | 2018-09-21 |
| [17V784000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V784000) | 2018 | Air Bags: Side/Window | 2017-12-08 |
| [17V586000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V586000) | 2017 | Engine And Engine Cooling: Engine | 2017-09-21 |
| [16V862000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V862000) | 2016-2017 | Trailer Hitches | 2016-11-30 |
| [16V770000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V770000) | 2016 | Seats | 2016-10-24 |
| [16V480000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V480000) | 2016 | Suspension: Rear | 2016-06-29 |
| [15V446000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V446000) | 2016 | Seat Belts: Front | 2015-07-14 |

Showing the 25 most recent of 26. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2027 Kia Sorento get?

The 2027 Kia Sorento is EPA-rated at 23-37 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2027 Kia Sorento have?

The 2027 Kia Sorento comes with: 1.6L 4-cyl turbo hybrid; 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.5L 4-cyl turbo. It uses automatic transmission and is offered with AWD and FWD.

### Is there a hybrid Kia Sorento?

Yes. The Kia Sorento has been offered as a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid in some model years; the table above shows which.

### Which Kia Sorento year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2027 Kia Sorento has the highest combined rating, up to 37 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2027 Kia Sorento for a year?

About $1,800-$2,900 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2027 Kia Sorento?

The most efficient 2027 version, the Sorento Hybrid FWD, is rated 37 mpg city and 36 mpg highway (37 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2027 Kia Sorento emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 240-390 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2027 Kia Sorento come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2027 Kia Sorento is offered with AWD and FWD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Kia Sorento cheap to run compared with other small SUVs?

No, dearer than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $1,800-$2,900 compares with about $2,263 for other current small SUV models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Kia Sorento have?

NHTSA lists 26 recalls for 2015-2026 Kia Sorento models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2026-01-27 (26V046000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Kia Sorento?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is engine, followed by electrical system. The 2016 model year has the most complaints (1262), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Kia SUVs

- [Kia EV6](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-ev6)
- [Kia Seltos](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-seltos)
- [Kia Sportage](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-sportage)
- [Kia EV9](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-ev9)
- [Kia Telluride](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-telluride)

## More Kia models

- [Kia Carnival](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-carnival)
- [Kia K4](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-k4)
- [Kia K5](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-k5)
- [Kia Niro](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-niro)
- [Kia Forte](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-forte): discontinued
- [Kia Rio](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-rio): discontinued
- [Kia Sedona](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-sedona): discontinued
- [Kia Soul](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-soul): discontinued
- [Kia Stinger](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-stinger): discontinued

## Other small SUVs

- [Lexus NX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lexus-nx)
- [Lexus RX](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lexus-rx)
- [Lexus RZ](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lexus-rz)
- [Lincoln Corsair](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lincoln-corsair)
- [Lincoln Nautilus](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/lincoln-nautilus)
- [Mazda CX-30](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-30)
- [Mazda CX-5](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/mazda-cx-5)

## Compared with

- [Ford Bronco Sport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-bronco-sport)
- [Ford Bronco](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-bronco)
- [Ford Escape](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-escape)
- [Honda CR-V](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/honda-cr-v)
- [Honda Passport](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/honda-passport)
- [Hyundai Kona](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-kona)
- [Hyundai Nexo](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-nexo)
- [Hyundai Santa Cruz](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-santa-cruz)
- [Hyundai Santa Fe](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-santa-fe)
- [Hyundai Tucson](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/hyundai-tucson)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

---

Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/kia-sorento
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.
