The 2026 Kia Sorento: Still Surprising, Now More Electrified
Kia’s Sorento has consistently been a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a well-rounded package of style, practicality, and value.
With the 2026 model, speculation swirls as Kia aims to keep the momentum going. Expect a major update, pushing the Sorento’s design, features, and, most importantly, its powertrain options firmly into the future.
2026 Kia Sorento
Styling: Evolution, Not Revolution
Kia has struck a winning formula with the current Sorento’s sharp, almost chiseled appearance.
Don’t expect them to abandon that. For 2026, we anticipate a refinement of its existing aesthetic– bolder surfacing, a sharper take on Kia’s “Tiger Nose” grille, and even more striking headlight designs.
The Sorento has a commanding presence, and we expect Kia to double down on that. However, the silhouette should remain familiar; practicality is still an important Sorento selling point.
The (Electric) Elephant in the Room
The biggest conversation around the 2026 Sorento is certain to be electrification. Kia is rapidly expanding their EV lineup, and it’s a safe bet some of that tech will trickle down to the Sorento.
A fully electric variant isn’t out of the question, likely building on the successful EV6 platform. However, we think a broader focus on hybrid options is more realistic.
Expect an even more efficient standard gas engine, a significantly updated plug-in hybrid with extended range, and perhaps a traditional hybrid to provide a middle-ground option.
Interior: It’s What’s on the Inside That Counts
Kia has been upping its interior game, and expect the Sorento to continue that trend. Materials will be richer, with more use of soft-touch surfaces and interesting textures.
Look for tech to take center stage, potentially with a larger, more integrated display setup, as we see in their flagship Telluride.
The Sorento’s third row has always been a point of practicality, so improvements in space and access back there seem likely.
The Wildcard
Kia loves a surprise! While the Sorento isn’t necessarily known for wild card features, there’s always a chance. Could we see cutting-edge driver-assist technologies? Maybe something like the EV6’s remote parking system? Kia often uses its top-selling vehicles to showcase new tech, so don’t discount something special to help set the 2026 model apart.
Features
- Base Model (LX or similar):
- Improved fuel-efficient gas engine (likely a turbocharged 4-cylinder)
- Larger infotainment touchscreen (think 10-inch+)
- Upgraded LED headlights and taillights
- Enhanced standard safety suite (blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, etc.)
- Cloth upholstery with an option for simulated leather
- Mid-Range Trims (EX, S, or similar)
- Available hybrid powertrain (better mileage than the base engine)
- Heated front seats
- Wireless phone charging
- Power Liftgate
- Sunroof option
- Higher Trims (SX, X-Line, or similar)
- Potentially a more powerful turbocharged gas engine option
- Available plug-in hybrid with 30+ miles of electric range
- Ventilated front seats
- Leather upholstery
- Surround-view camera system
- Premium sound system
- Possible Wildcards
- Head-up display
- Digital instrument cluster
- Hands-free semi-autonomous driving tech
- Remote parking features
2026 Kia Sorento Price
Prices are likely to increase slightly compared to the current model. Here’s a ballpark estimate, keeping in mind that market conditions can cause fluctuations:
- Base LX: Starting around $32,000 – $34,000
- Mid-Range Trims: $36,000 – $43,000 (depending on hybrid options)
- Top Trims: $45,000 – $50,000+ (especially if there’s a fully loaded PHEV trim)
The 2026 Kia Sorento isn’t set to reinvent the SUV. Instead, it’s poised to be a savvy evolution of an already winning recipe.
Electrification will be the headline but expect refinement in the Sorento’s signature qualities: practicality, bold design, and strong value.
