2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid

There are just two trim levels for the new hybrid Sorento, but they offer enough variation for you to consider your options. The base level is known as the EX, and it comes with an impressive host of exterior features from the start, including a dark Hyper Silver grille and LED fog lights. A gloss-black rear spoiler also comes standard in addition to a power rear liftgate. Plus, there's an optional upgrade package with a panoramic glass sunroof. If you're looking for more, consider the SX-P model, which has a bit more style expressed with its 17-inch alloy wheels. The overall design is a bit sleeker, but most of the upgrades for the top trim level are related to technology and interior features, though it still includes the smart power liftgate.

With just a single engine available for the Sorento hybrid, you can be sure that it will provide plenty of power. It's a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four mated to a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor that boasts 227 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The new Sorento hybrid strives to create a balance between efficiency and performance with less time at the pump and more time behind the wheel for thrilling and responsive drives. The drive is smooth and quiet, and the decisive shifts from the six-speed automatic are a bit more responsive than you'd get from other hybrid SUVs that use a continuously variable transmission instead. Plus, it offers a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds when properly equipped if you need to take a little extra something on your next adventure.

Inside the new Sorento hybrid, you'll find a welcoming interior that's comfortable and spacious with an impressive maximum cargo capacity of 75.5 cubic feet. Even if you keep the second-row seats up, you'll still get 45 cubic feet of space. The seating can be quite luxurious too, with synthetic leather upholstery, heated seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat. In terms of tech, the standard Sorento hybrid offers a 10.25-inch touchscreen with the option to upgrade to a 12.3-inch screen complemented by a Bose premium stereo system.

Safety features are abundant with the Sorento hybrid, letting you drive with peace of mind. For example, forward collision warning with automated emergency braking as well as lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist are standard on all models. You can upgrade the safety features even further with options like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.