Is the 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid a BETTER midsize 3-row SUV than a Toyota Highlander?

The Sorento Hybrid is getting some big changes for 2025. On the outside you will find a totally new front end, lighting and wheels. On the inside there are two 12.3in screens and leather seating. Under the hood is a 1`.8L turbocharged inline-4 hybrid that is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Is the 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid a BETTER midsize 3-row SUV than a Mazda CX-90?
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videography: Steven Flood 🎥

[TheEasyeman]

Just test drove this this week. Got 41+ mpg during my test drive. Watching this video intently 😊😊

[ivandoneshefsky]

Joe, did you say 0-60 in 6 seconds or so? Anyway, very good review. The hybrid seems to be the best way to go for Sorento. Great gas mileage, no dual-clutch transmission issues, plenty of power and I’m assuming it’s quieter. I like the changes made to the front end and especially the upscale interior. $48k is stretching it but it’s less expensive than a Telluride and way more cost effective than a Grand Highland. I have no qualms about the 1.6 motor with turbo. It’s been out a number of years and has been reliable. Well done Kia IMO. Cheers👍

[gdcc]

I have to admit the 34 mpgs across-the-board is a real eye-catching feature for this hybrid suv

[timothystafford]

Great review Joe! I was looking to buy the 24' but now I'm waiting for the 25' after seeing this vid. A lot of "bang for your buck" at $48k. 34 mpg, great interior/tech, pana roof, leather, great ride/power, warranty 10 a no brainer.

[JKHan-yodj]

just got mine, love the smooth switch and panoramic sunroof. and most of all the infotainment is just awesome.

[rickjames]

Not diggin the wheels. Paint Color is righteous. The interior is superb. I like the 6 speed Auto. My 14 Optima has the 6 speed Auto and it is wonderful. Good modern transportation for the money. Take care of it and it will last well beyond the awesome warranty they come with.☮️💙

[fl]

The cameras and the screens look great. Wished Honda and Toyota had similar style.

[senorgato]

But the Sorento is a rival to the Highlander, not the Grand Highlander. The Sorento is about a foot shorter than the GH. Same with the CX-90, which is more of a rival for the Telluride, not the Sorento.

[CS_]

Stop trying to cramp 3rd row in these mid size. Two rows with more leg room would be sufficient.

[abdulgimba]

I love that SMILE on your face Joe”No wiper” 😂😂😂

[omarcortes]

Great for daily driving but I feel like 2 rows would be better for the size of this vehicle.

[mjg]

I agree with you Joe on the missing HUD for 48K.

[CS_]

Get rid of the 3rd row, ventilated seats in the back with adult size armrest, & add panoramic sunroof for 50k

[retgi]

I have a 2022 Sorento PHEV and plug it in anytime I go more than a few miles. Most of my driving is local under 30 miles so I fill it up about every 10 to 12 weeks. Averaging some 92 mpg at the moment.

[quaizers]

Joe, I love when you mess with Steven 😂😂😂😂😂

[joanaparicio]

We just got one. I'm very happy with it.

[Ricky-momv]

The 2025 Highlander refresh killed the currently very nice looking Highlander, which was certainly the best design Toyota had to offer. Not anymore! It is being stripped of its personality and is becoming a plain box with wheels. I think I read that they are even considering renaming it “Them.”

In terms of the interior, we all know that Toyota doesn’t even try to compete with KIA. So, I think it’s pretty clear how I feel about this situation.

[sansin]

2025 Sorento Hybrid SX Prestige vs 2025 Santa Fe hybrid Calligraphy, which one is a quieter, smoother ride?

[styner]

Too bad you can't get the SX with a bench 2nd row.

[dcrijo]

That # 34 is winning it for me...great review!!