The 2026 Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV with three rows of seating, built by Kia. It comes with three powertrain families: gas, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV). Each family has its own set of trim levels, so the right Sorento depends on how you drive.
Jenkins Kia of Cocoa is a Kia dealership on West King Street in Cocoa, Florida. This guide uses Kia's official 2026 specifications and EPA ratings so you can compare every Sorento trim level in one place.
What are the 2026 Kia Sorento trim levels?
The 2026 Kia Sorento trim levels are LX, S, EX, SX, X-Line EX, X-Line SX, X-Line SX Prestige and X-Pro SX Prestige on the gas model. The Sorento Hybrid comes in EX and SX Prestige grades, and the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid comes in EX and X-Line SX Prestige grades. Kia's media site lists every trim and its powertrain.
Exact trim names can appear slightly differently on window stickers, so ask our team to confirm the build of any specific vehicle.
Which Sorento trims have the turbocharged engine?
The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine powers the EX, SX and every X-Line and X-Pro gas trim. Kia rates it at 281 hp and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. The LX and S trims use a non-turbo 2.5-liter engine rated at 191 hp and 181 lb.-ft.
Gas Sorento trims at a glance
Each gas trim builds on the one below it. Here are highlights from Kia's 2026 trim updates:
-
LX: the starting point, now with a standard leather-trimmed steering wheel.
-
S: steps up equipment over the LX and offers FWD or AWD.
-
EX: adds the turbo engine and a new available Premium Package with panoramic roof, Bose premium audio and captain's chairs.
-
SX: adds standard Bose audio, a heated steering wheel, rear sunshades and an auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink.
-
X-Line and X-Pro: rugged styling with glossy black front and rear trim; X-Line EX now adds standard Bose audio.
For 2026, Kia also made Terrain Mode standard on every AWD Sorento. That makes the AWD models more confident on sandy beach lots and rain-soaked roads.
What do the Sorento Hybrid trims offer?
The Sorento Hybrid trims pair efficiency with the same three-row body. Kia lists the hybrid system at 227 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque through a 6-speed automatic. The EPA rates the front-wheel-drive Sorento Hybrid at 37 mpg combined (37 city / 36 highway), and the AWD version at 34 mpg combined.
The EX trim is the value pick and offers FWD or available AWD. The SX Prestige trim adds the most premium equipment and comes with AWD.
What does the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offer?
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid adds a larger battery you can charge at home. Kia lists 268 hp and 270 lb.-ft. of torque, a 14 kWh battery and standard AWD. The EPA rates it at 74 MPGe combined and 33 mpg on gas alone, with up to 31 miles of all-electric range. Actual range varies with temperature, speed and driving style.
The federal EV tax credit ended for vehicles acquired after September 30, 2025, so it does not apply to a new purchase today. Ask our team about the PHEV's availability if all-electric commuting matters to you.
Which Kia Sorento gets the best gas mileage?
​
The Sorento Hybrid with front-wheel drive gets the best gas mileage, at an EPA-estimated 37 mpg combined. The Plug-in Hybrid can beat that on short trips when you charge it, since many daily commutes fit inside its electric range. Here is how the EPA ratings compare for the 2026 lineup.
All figures are EPA estimates from fueleconomy.gov. Your mileage will vary, so check the window sticker on the exact vehicle.
Does the 2026 Sorento have three rows?
Yes, every 2026 Sorento has a standard third row. Depending on trim and seat layout, it carries six or seven passengers. Kia lists 12.6 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the third row and up to 75.5 cu. ft. behind the first row on gas and hybrid models.
That flexibility suits families heading from Merritt Island to Cocoa Beach on weekends. Fold the third row for beach chairs, or raise it for extra riders.
How much can the Sorento tow?
Kia lists 3,500 lbs. of towing capacity with the towing package on turbo gas trims, and up to 4,500 lbs. as an option on the top turbo grades, when properly equipped. Towing ratings vary by powertrain and equipment. Confirm the rating for a specific vehicle with our team before towing a boat or camper.
Is there a 2027 Kia Sorento?
Yes, Kia has introduced the 2027 Sorento, and EPA ratings for its gas and hybrid models match the 2026 versions. This guide focuses on the 2026 model year, which is the Sorento featured on our 2026 Kia Sorento research page. Ask our team which model years are on the lot when you shop.
How do I choose the right Sorento trim?
Start with how you drive most days. Commuters chasing fuel savings should look at the Hybrid. Drivers who tow or want stronger acceleration should look at the turbo gas trims. If you want maximum value with three rows, the LX and S trims cover the basics well.
Next, set your must-have features. The EX Premium Package and SX trims add the comfort upgrades many families want. A test drive back to back is the fastest way to decide.
Keeping your Sorento on schedule
Every Sorento runs best when it follows Kia's recommended maintenance plan. Our recent guide to the Kia maintenance schedule explains what to expect at each interval. When it is time for service, you can schedule service online with our team in Cocoa.
Shop the Sorento at Jenkins Kia of Cocoa
Ready to compare trims in person? Browse our new Kia Sorento inventory and our Sorento Hybrid inventory, or see our full new vehicle inventory. You can also value your trade and start a finance application online.
Jenkins Kia of Cocoa welcomes drivers from Cocoa, Rockledge, Merritt Island, Titusville, Viera, Melbourne and Palm Bay. Call 239-356-1339 or contact us to book a test drive.