2026 Kia Sorento Performance

October 22nd, 2026 by

Gray 2026 Kia Sorento SUV rear view parked on a forest trail

The 2026 Kia Sorento combines power, efficiency, and versatility in one impressive midsize SUV. Whether you’re commuting to work, hauling weekend gear, or planning a family road trip, this SUV excels in all scenarios. With multiple engine options and trim levels to choose from, there’s a Sorento configuration for every driver. Explore the 2026 Kia Sorento mpg, towing capacity, horsepower, and other key performance specs in our guide below.

2026 Kia Sorento Horsepower & Engine Specs

The 2026 Sorento offers two engine options—a standard 2.5L 4-cylinder and a turbocharged variant—both paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for seamless shifting. The 2.5L engine delivers a blend of fuel efficiency and peppy performance, perfect for everyday driving. While the turbocharged option slightly lowers the Kia Sorento mpg, it provides a significant power boost during your drives in Montgomery. 

2.5L 4-Cylinder Engine

  • 191 hp
  • 181 lb-ft of torque 

Turbocharged 2.5L 4-Cylinder

  • 281 hp
  • 311 lb-ft of torque 

The 2026 Kia Sorento horsepower rating makes it a competitive option in the midsize SUV market, especially for the turbocharged models. 

2026 Kia Sorento MPG Ratings

The 2026 Kia Sorento mpg ratings slightly vary depending on your chosen configuration. The front-wheel drive (FWD) models with the base engine offer the best fuel economy, making them ideal for daily commutes to Birmingham and highway driving. If you need all-wheel drive (AWD) for challenging weather conditions or off-road adventures, you’ll only sacrifice a few mpg.

  • LX (FWD only): 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
  • S (FWD): 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway 
  • S (AWD): 23 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
  • EX (FWD): 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
  • EX (AWD): 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
  • X-Line EX (AWD only): 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
  • SX (FWD only): 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
  • X-Line SX (AWD only): 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
  • X-Line SX Prestige (AWD only): 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
  • X-Pro SX Prestige (AWD only): 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway

With a spacious fuel tank capacity of 17.7 gallons, the Sorento offers excellent range for long trips past Livingston.

2026 Kia Sorento Towing Capacity

The Kia Sorento towing capacity also varies by model. The range-topping X-Pro SX Prestige leads the lineup with a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, a good option for outdoor enthusiasts who need to haul heavier equipment. 

  • LX, S, SX: 2,000 pounds
  • EX, X-Line EX AWD, X-Line SX AWD, X-Line SX Prestige AWD: 3,500 pounds
  • X-Pro SX Prestige AWD: 4,000 pounds

Before towing with your Sorento, always make sure your SUV is properly equipped and that you follow all manufacturer-recommended towing guidelines. For detailed instructions and safety information, consult your owner’s manual. 

Experience The 2026 Kia Sorento In Tuscaloosa

With its balance of fuel economy and capability, it’s easy to see why the Sorento is a standout choice in the midsize SUV segment. Ready to get behind the wheel at Julio Jones Kia? Contact us online or call (205) 409-4391 today to schedule your test drive.


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