For a vehicle that once led Kia's lineup as the brand's largest and most refined SUV, the 2024 Kia Sorento makes a compelling case for why it should still be considered a flagship. With an impressive blend of advanced technology, premium interior touches, and a bold new exterior design, the Sorento X-Line SX-Prestige delivers more than enough to compete with its upscale rivals—without carrying the same hefty price tag. After spending time behind the wheel, I questioned Kia's decision to crown the Telluride and EV9 as the new flagship models. The Sorento may not offer the same size or presence as its larger siblings. Still, it excels in luxury, convenience, and thoughtful design, making it a strong contender in its class.
But my weekly ride with my 86-year-old pops summed things up perfectly. His first comment? "This doesn't ride as good as the last one," referencing the EV9 we reviewed recently. The EV9 offers a noticeably smoother and more refined ride, with better suspension damping and a quieter cabin, highlighting Sorento's slightly firmer ride quality. And that, in essence, answers why the Sorento isn't Kia's flagship anymore—it doesn't deliver quite the same premium ride quality. But where it slightly trails in ride comfort, it excels in features and value.
Key Features of the 2024 Kia Sorento X-Line SX-Prestige
Comfort & Convenience
• Three-row versatility with a decent-sized third row, complete with USB phone chargers for every seat—a feature often missing even in luxury competitors.
• Heated and ventilated front seats with multiple adjustment levels ensure comfort in all seasons. The heated second-row seats are a thoughtful addition that enhances passenger comfort.
• The heated steering wheel provides added convenience, especially during colder months.
• Panoramic sunroof stretches almost the entire length of the cabin, creating an open and airy feel. Combined with the suede-like Alcantara headliner, it elevates the cabin ambiance to near-luxury territory.
• Premium Syntex-trimmed seats with contrast stitching look upscale and are designed for durability. The seats offer a supportive yet plush feel, striking a balance between firmness and comfort, making long drives more enjoyable. Their high-quality finish and soft-touch surfaces add an extra layer of refinement to the cabin.
• Ambient interior lighting in customizable colors allows drivers to personalize the cabin's mood, a feature typically reserved for high-end luxury models.
Technology
• Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration without the need for cumbersome cords.
• Multiple USB-C ports in all three rows ensure every passenger stays connected, making long trips more enjoyable.
• Digital Key 2.0 allows users to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle with compatible smartphones or an NFC-enabled key card.
• The 12.3-inch panoramic curved display, featuring dual digital screens, integrates navigation, infotainment, and driver information in a sleek, futuristic layout.
• Over-the-air updates ensure that the vehicle's software and features remain current without the need to visit a dealership.
• Available Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA-2) with automatic lane change capability and Smart Cruise Control with Machine Learning, which adapts to your driving style.
Performance
Where the Sorento truly impresses is in its balance of power and efficiency. The 2.5-liter turbocharged I-4 engine delivers a robust 281 horsepower and an impressive 311 lb-ft of torque, giving the Sorento plenty of muscle for highway merging and passing maneuvers. Paired with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT), the Sorento offers smooth, quick shifts that enhance both performance and fuel efficiency.
The active on-demand all-wheel drive system with a center-locking differential ensures the Sorento maintains traction on slippery or uneven surfaces. Whether navigating rain-soaked streets or tackling light off-road trails, the system adapts power distribution to maximize grip where it's needed most.
The X-Line and X-Pro trims offer enhanced off-road capabilities for those seeking more adventure. The X-Pro, in particular, comes equipped with 17-inch wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, increasing ground clearance and enabling it to tackle rugged terrain easily. The Sorento's towing capacity also gets a boost, with the X-Pro trim rated to tow up to 4,500 lbs, making it ideal for small trailers or boats.
Despite its rugged potential, the Sorento remains composed on city streets and highways. It offers a stable and smooth ride, with well-tuned suspension minimizing bumps, low cabin noise enhancing comfort, and responsive handling, providing drivers with confidence in various driving conditions. The electric power steering offers precise control, while the suspension system balances comfort and stability. While not as plush as the Telluride or EV9, the Sorento offers a confident and controlled ride that should satisfy most drivers.
Blazing New Trails with X-Line and X-Pro Trims
Kia's addition of the X-Line and X-Pro trims to the Sorento lineup signals its intent to appeal to adventure seekers. The X-Line focuses on rugged styling enhancements, featuring a bridge-type roof rack, off-road-inspired bumpers, and unique gloss-black wheels. It is perfect for those who want a bold, capable look without sacrificing on-road comfort. On the other hand, the X-Pro ups the ante with 17-inch wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, increased towing capacity, and additional skid plates, making it better suited for serious off-road adventures and heavier towing tasks. The X-Line trim offers rugged styling enhancements and practical features like a bridge-type roof rack and off-road-inspired bumpers. Meanwhile, the X-Pro trim goes a step further, adding all-terrain tires, increased towing capacity, and cosmetic skid plates for those who want to combine luxury with capability.
For outdoor enthusiasts or families who enjoy weekend getaways, the X-Pro trim is particularly appealing, offering both the versatility to handle rougher trails and the comfort of everyday driving.
Who Should Buy the 2024 Kia Sorento?
I recommend the Sorento for families seeking a three-row SUV that delivers luxury-level features without luxury-level pricing. It's also ideal for young professionals climbing the corporate ladder who want a vehicle that feels upscale and aspirational without breaking the bank. With its thoughtful design, premium materials, and tech-savvy cabin, the Sorento offers a taste of what success will feel like—whether on the daily commute or weekend road trips.
If you're in the market for something adventure-ready, the X-Line and X-Pro trims provide the flexibility and capability to handle off-road trails and towing needs. And with hybrid and PHEV versions coming soon, the Sorento is poised to offer even greater versatility for eco-conscious buyers.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Kia Sorento X-Line SX-Prestige may no longer hold flagship status in Kia's SUV lineup, but it remains a standout in its own right. With luxurious appointments, cutting-edge technology, and the practicality of three rows, it's a strong contender for those who want premium features at an affordable price. While it may not ride quite as smoothly as its larger siblings, it more than makes up for it with thoughtful touches and all-around capability.
For those looking to maximize value while enjoying the finer things in life, the Sorento checks all the right boxes. Whether you're blazing trails or cruising the city streets, this SUV proves that sometimes the original still has plenty of greatness to offer.
