2022 Kia Sorento Review: Is This the Best Balanced 3-Row SUV?

The 2022 Kia Sorento represents a significant leap forward from the previous generation, transforming what was once a competent but forgettable midsize SUV into one of the most well-rounded three-row vehicles on the market. The current generation, which debuted for 2021, brought a complete redesign that fundamentally changed the Sorento’s character. It is a three-row SUV that sits squarely between the compact Sportage and the larger Telluride in Kia’s lineup, offering seven-passenger seating in a package that is more maneuverable and city-friendly than its bigger sibling.

The competition in this segment is fierce, and success depends on getting the balance right between size, price, and equipment. The 2022 Kia Sorento does exactly that. It offers three rows of seating, a choice of four powertrains including hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, and a level of standard equipment that makes many competitors look stingy. For families who need three rows but do not want to drive a full-size SUV, the 2022 Kia Sorento makes a compelling case.

Our Take

The 2022 Kia Sorento is one of the best-balanced three-row SUVs in its class. It delivers strong value, a refined interior, and a surprising amount of powertrain variety. But it is not the best in every category. The third row is tight, the cargo space behind it is limited, and the dual-clutch transmission can be hesitant at low speeds. Where the Sorento wins is in its ability to offer genuine three-row capability in a package that does not feel oversized or cumbersome.

This is the SUV for buyers who want three rows without the bulk. It is not the most spacious three-row SUV, but it is one of the most well-rounded and practical options in its class.

Pros

• The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivers 281 horsepower and brisk acceleration for a family SUV
• The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with premium materials on higher trims that rival more expensive vehicles
• Multiple powertrain options including hybrid (37 mpg combined) and plug-in hybrid (79 MPGe)
• Generous standard safety features with Kia Drive Wise, including forward collision avoidance and lane keeping assist
• The long warranty (10 years/100,000 miles powertrain) provides peace of mind

Cons

• Third-row seats are tight and best suited for children or short trips
• Limited cargo space behind the third row at just 12.6 cubic feet
• The dual-clutch transmission can feel hesitant and lacks refinement at low speeds
• Some rivals offer more cargo capacity and third-row room for adults
• The price climbs quickly in higher trims, reducing the value advantage

What’s New for 2022

The 2022 Kia Sorento is in its second year of the fourth generation, which debuted in 2021. The changes for 2022 are mostly additive rather than transformative. Kia has expanded the trim range to include two new off-road-oriented grades: the X-Line S and X-Line EX. These trims add unique styling elements and slight suspension tweaks, but they are more about appearance than capability.

The most meaningful improvement is the standard 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation on Sorento S and above, which significantly improves the user experience compared to the previous 8-inch unit. The larger screen is crisper, more responsive, and makes navigation and media controls far more intuitive. The SX Prestige models add a standard driver’s seat with greater adjustability and heated second-row captain’s chairs. Wolf Grey joins the exterior color palette on X-Line S and above.

It is worth noting that the X-Line trims are appearance-focused only. They add a more rugged look with unique bumpers, dark exterior trim, and roof rack cross rails, but they do not improve performance, suspension, or off-road capability. For buyers seeking actual capability improvements, the X-Line will disappoint.

Exterior Design

The 2022 Sorento is anything but anonymous. Motor Trend describes the exterior styling as “chiseled,” with a wide angular grille and integrated headlights that serve as the centerpiece of a bold design language. Vertical taillights, distinctive character lines, and raised rear badging give the Sorento a strong visual identity that echoes its larger Telluride stablemate.

The design is clearly inspired by the Telluride, but the Sorento is smaller and less imposing. It does not have the same commanding road presence as its bigger sibling, but it is more athletic and modern. The overall look is strong and distinctive, though it is not the most striking design in the segment. The Mazda CX-9 and Hyundai Santa Fe offer more sculpted and premium appearances.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2022 Sorento feels like a smaller Telluride in traffic—manageable and easy to place—but a compromised one when fully loaded. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing most road imperfections with a softness that suits family duty. But push it through a corner, and the Sorento reminds you it is not a sporty SUV. The steering is light and easy to manage in the city, but it lacks the precision and feedback that would make it engaging.

On smooth highways, the Sorento is quiet and composed, with minimal wind and road noise. But on deteriorating city streets, the suspension struggles to maintain composure, transmitting vibrations into the cabin that become more noticeable in the third row. The dual-clutch transmission, paired with the turbocharged engine, is the Sorento’s biggest dynamic weakness. In stop-and-go traffic, it can feel hesitant and jerky, as if the gearbox is uncertain which gear to select. This is a compromise that will frustrate urban commuters.

The ride quality is good enough for most families, but it is not as polished as the Toyota Highlander. The Sorento is comfortable, but it lacks the refinement that makes the Highlander feel like a more expensive vehicle.

Performance & Acceleration

The 2022 Kia Sorento offers four powertrains, and each has a distinct personality.

2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Four-Cylinder: This is the entry-level engine, producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is purely economical and adequate for routine driving, but it is not exciting. It moves the Sorento from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds. It is the choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize fuel economy over performance.

2.5-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This is the performance engine, producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This engine is the highlight of the lineup, delivering genuinely quick acceleration that makes the Sorento feel lively and responsive. However, the DCT can feel hesitant and jerky at low speeds, which is a notable compromise.

1.6-Liter Turbocharged Hybrid: This powertrain combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor for a total output of 227 horsepower. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid is the efficiency champion, delivering 37 mpg combined and a smooth, refined driving experience. It is the best choice for buyers who want to save fuel without sacrificing everyday usability.

1.6-Liter Turbocharged Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): This powertrain produces 261 horsepower and offers an estimated 32 miles of all-electric range. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The PHEV is ideal for buyers with access to regular charging who want to maximize efficiency, achieving 79 MPGe.

Ride Comfort & Cabin Refinement

The first two rows of the Sorento are genuinely comfortable. The seats are supportive, with ample adjustment, and the ride is smooth enough for long highway journeys. The cabin remains quiet at speed, with wind and road noise effectively suppressed.

The third row is where the Sorento shows its limitations. It is a space best used for children or short trips. Adults will find the seating position awkward, with knees raised and limited headroom. On rough roads, the vibrations that the suspension fails to fully absorb become more pronounced in the third row. This is a vehicle that works best for families who use the third row occasionally, not daily.

Interior & Luxury Feel

The interior of the 2022 Sorento is a step above its price point, but it is not quite at the level of the Telluride. The design is clean and modern, with a focus on practicality. In the SX Prestige trim, the cabin feels genuinely premium, with genuine leather upholstery, open-pore wood accents, and metal inlays. In lower trims, the materials are good but not exceptional.

The layout is functional, with a mix of touchscreen controls and physical buttons that are easy to use while driving. The 10.25-inch screen on higher trims is crisp and responsive, and the digital instrument cluster adds a modern touch. The interior feels more practical than opulent, focusing on usability over luxury.

Technology & Infotainment

The 2022 Sorento’s infotainment system is one of its strengths. The 10.25-inch touchscreen is fast and easy to use, with crisp graphics and a responsive interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, but the larger screen requires a wired connection for smartphone integration—a notable omission.

The premium Bose audio system is available on higher trims, but it is not class-leading. Some of the smaller buttons on the screen can be distracting while driving, requiring attention away from the road. The Kia Drive Wise suite works well, though the rear cross-traffic alert can be overly sensitive in tight parking situations.

Fuel Economy

The 2022 Kia Sorento offers respectable fuel economy, particularly in hybrid form. The 2.5-liter engine with front-wheel drive is rated at 26 mpg combined, dropping to 24 mpg with all-wheel drive. The turbocharged 2.5-liter achieves 24 mpg combined, which is acceptable given its performance.

The hybrid is the efficiency champion, achieving 37 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 34 mpg with all-wheel drive. This is competitive with the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, though the Highlander achieves slightly better numbers. The plug-in hybrid offers 79 MPGe and 32 miles of electric range, making it ideal for buyers with regular charging access.

Practicality & Cargo Space

The Sorento’s practicality comes with a trade-off. With the third row in use, cargo space is limited to just 12.6 cubic feet—enough for a few grocery bags or small suitcases. Fold the third row, and capacity expands to 45 cubic feet, which is adequate for most family needs. With both rear rows folded, the Sorento offers 75.5 cubic feet.

The Sorento’s smaller footprint makes it easier to park and maneuver than the Telluride, but that convenience comes at the cost of cargo space. It is a vehicle that works best for families who use the third row occasionally and are willing to compromise on cargo capacity when all seats are occupied.

Safety & Driver Assistance

The 2022 Sorento has earned strong safety ratings, including four stars overall from the NHTSA and “Good” ratings in all IIHS crashworthiness tests. The Kia Drive Wise suite comes standard, including forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard on all but the base trim.

The systems work well but can be overly sensitive at times, particularly the rear cross-traffic alert, which may trigger unnecessarily in tight parking situations.

Competitors Worth Considering

Kia Telluride: The Telluride is the better choice for large families, offering significantly more third-row space and cargo capacity. It is more expensive and less fuel-efficient, but it is the superior vehicle for those who regularly use the third row.

Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is more reliable and offers a smoother ride. It has a more spacious third row and better resale value. However, it is typically more expensive and less engaging to drive than the Sorento.

Hyundai Santa Fe: The Santa Fe shares the same platform and powertrains as the Sorento, but it offers two-row seating instead of three. It has a more premium interior feel. The Sorento is the better choice for buyers who need three rows.

Honda Passport: The Passport offers a spacious interior and strong V-6 performance, but it lacks the Sorento’s hybrid options and third-row seating.

Biggest Strength and Biggest Weakness

Biggest Strength: The 2022 Kia Sorento’s greatest asset is its balance. It offers three-row seating, multiple powertrain options, and a level of standard equipment that makes many competitors look stingy. It is the ideal choice for families who need three rows but do not want the bulk of a full-size SUV.

Biggest Weakness: The Sorento’s third-row seats are tight, and cargo space behind them is limited. The dual-clutch transmission can feel hesitant and lacks refinement at low speeds. The X-Line trims are appearance-focused only, adding no real performance or capability benefits.

Which Trim Does Cardrav Recommend?

Cardrav recommends the SX Prestige trim for buyers who prioritize luxury and performance. It offers the powerful 281-horsepower turbocharged engine, a premium interior, and a comprehensive list of features.

For buyers prioritizing fuel economy, the Hybrid S trim is the best choice, offering 37 mpg combined and a generous list of standard features. The X-Line trims are best for those who appreciate the rugged appearance but understand it adds no performance benefit. The PHEV is ideal for buyers with access to regular charging.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

Who should buy the 2022 Kia Sorento: Buyers who want three-row seating without the bulk of a full-size SUV. Families who value a balance of size, price, and equipment. Buyers who appreciate hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.

Who should avoid the 2022 Kia Sorento: Buyers who regularly need to carry adults in the third row. Families who need maximum cargo space. Those who prioritize driving engagement.

The 2022 Kia Sorento is not the best in any single category, but it is one of the best-balanced three-row SUVs on the market. It is a vehicle that quietly does everything right, and for many families, that is exactly what they need.

FAQ

Is the 2022 Kia Sorento a good choice for large families?

The 2022 Kia Sorento works best for families who do not regularly use the third row for adults. The first two rows are spacious and comfortable, but the third row is tight and best suited for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row is limited at 12.6 cubic feet. For large families with older children or frequent adult passengers, the Telluride or Toyota Highlander are better choices.

How does the 2022 Kia Sorento compare to the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander?

The Telluride is larger, offering more third-row space and cargo capacity, but it is more expensive and less fuel-efficient. It is the better choice for large families who regularly use the third row. The Highlander is more reliable and offers a smoother ride, with a more spacious third row and better resale value, but it is typically more expensive and less engaging to drive. The 2022 Kia Sorento wins on balance and value, offering the best combination of size, price, and equipment for buyers who want three-row capability in a manageable package.

What is the fuel economy of the 2022 Kia Sorento hybrid?

The 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid achieves EPA ratings of 37 mpg combined for the front-wheel-drive version and 34 mpg combined for the all-wheel-drive version. The plug-in hybrid offers a combined 79 MPGe and an estimated 32 miles of all-electric range.

How reliable is the 2022 Kia Sorento?

The 2022 Kia Sorento has a generally positive reliability record, though some owners have reported issues with the dual-clutch transmission and turbocharger oil supply pipe recalls. Kia’s generous warranty provides peace of mind.

Does the 2022 Kia Sorento have a plug-in hybrid option?

Yes, the 2022 Kia Sorento offers a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant with 261 horsepower, a combined 79 MPGe rating, and an estimated 32 miles of all-electric range. It is available in higher trims and comes with all-wheel drive as standard.

What is the cargo space of the 2022 Kia Sorento?

The 2022 Kia Sorento offers 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. With the third row folded, capacity expands to 45 cubic feet, and with both rear rows folded, it reaches a maximum of 75.5 cubic feet.