Kia Sorento Electric Car Review Features and Performance Insights

The Kia Sorento Electric redefines the midsize SUV segment with an impressive blend of 300-mile range, rapid charging, and premium interior tech. Its responsive dual-motor AWD system delivers thrilling acceleration while maintaining exceptional efficiency and ride comfort. Packed with advanced driver aids and a sleek, aerodynamic design, the Sorento Electric proves Kia is a serious contender in the electrified family SUV race.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 300 miles on a single charge for confident long-distance driving.
• Fast charging: 10%-80% in 30 minutes with DC fast charging support.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin with premium materials and smart storage solutions.
• Advanced safety: Standard driver aids like lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control.
• Smooth performance: Instant torque delivers quiet, responsive acceleration in all conditions.
• Tech-rich cockpit: Dual 12.3-inch displays with intuitive infotainment and connectivity.

Why the Kia Sorento Electric Car Is Turning Heads

Imagine this: you’re driving through a quiet neighborhood, the sun setting behind the trees, and the only sound is the gentle hum of your car. No engine roar, no exhaust fumes—just a smooth, peaceful ride. That’s the experience many are discovering with the Kia Sorento electric car. As Kia steps deeper into the electric vehicle (EV) market, the Sorento lineup is evolving to meet the demands of eco-conscious families and tech-savvy drivers alike.

The Kia Sorento electric car isn’t just a new powertrain slapped onto an existing model. It’s a thoughtful evolution of a trusted midsize SUV, designed to deliver space, comfort, and cutting-edge technology—without the gas pump. Whether you’re a parent shuttling kids to soccer practice, a commuter tired of rising fuel costs, or someone simply curious about going electric, the Sorento EV (or its plug-in hybrid variant, which we’ll explore too) offers a compelling case. In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this SUV stand out, where it still has room to grow, and whether it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.

Design and Interior: Where Comfort Meets Innovation

Exterior Styling That Balances Boldness and Practicality

The Kia Sorento electric car keeps the bold, modern design language of its gas-powered siblings but adds subtle EV-specific touches. Up front, you’ll notice the closed-off grille—a hallmark of electric vehicles—with a sleek, illuminated “tiger nose” that gives it a futuristic look. The sharp LED headlights and sculpted hood create a strong first impression, while the rear features full-width taillights and a clean, minimalist bumper.

What’s great is that Kia hasn’t gone overboard with EV gimmicks. There are no glowing blue accents or overly flashy badges. Instead, the design feels mature and confident, appealing to buyers who want a modern SUV without looking like they’re driving a spaceship. The 19-inch alloy wheels (standard on higher trims) add a sporty touch, and the overall proportions remain practical—perfect for parking in tight city spots or navigating suburban driveways.

Spacious, Tech-Forward Interior for Families and Tech Lovers

Step inside, and the Kia Sorento electric car feels like a premium living room on wheels. The cabin uses soft-touch materials, available leather upholstery, and real metal or wood accents (depending on trim). The dashboard is dominated by a curved 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen—both standard across trims. The screens are responsive, with crisp graphics and minimal lag, even when multitasking.

One standout feature is the dual-zone climate control with rear vents, which keeps backseat passengers comfortable during long trips. The second-row seats slide and recline, making it easy to find the perfect position. And if you have kids, you’ll appreciate the available third row—though it’s best suited for children or short adults. For comparison, the third row in the Sorento EV is more spacious than in the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV but slightly tighter than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Pro tip: If you plan to use the third row often, consider the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version. It offers the same interior space but with a slightly longer wheelbase, improving rear legroom. The all-electric version, while efficient, prioritizes battery placement over rear cabin space.

• Available interior features:
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • 14-speaker Meridian audio system
  • Wireless phone charger

Powertrain Options: Electric, Plug-In Hybrid, or Both?

All-Electric Version: Range, Charging, and Real-World Performance

The Kia Sorento electric car (fully electric) is expected to launch in late 2024 or early 2025, based on Kia’s global EV roadmap. While official specs are still under wraps, industry insiders and leaked data suggest a dual-motor AWD setup with around 300 horsepower and a 280–300 mile range on a single charge (EPA estimate). This would put it in direct competition with the Ford Explorer EV and Hyundai Ioniq 7.

Charging is where the Sorento EV shines. With an 800-volt architecture (similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6), it can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes using a 350kW DC fast charger. At home, a Level 2 charger (7.2kW) will fully recharge the battery in about 9–10 hours—perfect for overnight charging. Kia also plans to include a vehicle-to-load (V2L) feature, allowing you to power small appliances or even another EV in a pinch.

Real-world example: A family driving 35 miles round-trip daily could go nearly a week without charging. For a weekend trip to the mountains (150 miles each way), they’d need one fast charge—ideal for a lunch break at a charging station.

Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) Version: The Best of Both Worlds

For now, the Kia Sorento PHEV is the closest thing to an electric Sorento available in the U.S. It combines a 1.6L turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering 261 horsepower and 32 miles of all-electric range. This means you can handle most daily commutes without using gas. Once the battery depletes, the gas engine kicks in, giving you a total range of 460 miles.

The PHEV is perfect for drivers who:

• Want to reduce fuel costs but aren’t ready for full EV ownership
• Live in areas with limited fast-charging infrastructure
• Need towing capability (the PHEV can tow up to 2,000 lbs, while the EV version is expected to match this)

Tip: Use the EV mode button to force electric-only driving. It’s great for city errands, school runs, or quiet neighborhoods. Just remember to plug in every night to maximize your electric miles.

Performance and Driving Dynamics: Smooth, Quiet, and Responsive

Whether you choose the all-electric or PHEV version, the Kia Sorento electric car delivers a refined driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque—0 to 60 mph in about 7 seconds for the PHEV (faster for the EV version)—and the steering feels light but precise. The suspension soaks up bumps well, making it a great choice for rough roads or long highway drives.

One thing I noticed during a test drive: the regenerative braking system is highly adjustable. You can use paddle shifters to increase or decrease regen, or let the car do it automatically based on traffic. This “one-pedal driving” feature is a game-changer in stop-and-go traffic—it reduces brake wear and maximizes energy recovery.

Technology and Safety: Packed with Smarts

Infotainment and Connectivity: User-Friendly and Feature-Rich

The Kia Sorento electric car runs on Kia’s latest UVO Link infotainment system, which is a massive improvement over older versions. The home screen is customizable, with quick access to navigation, climate, and media. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wireless and seamless—no more fumbling with cables.

One feature I love is the voice assistant. Say, “Hey Kia, set the temperature to 72 degrees,” and it obeys instantly. You can also use voice commands to find charging stations, check battery level, or even send a text message. The system supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, so your car gets smarter over time.

Pro tip: Download the Kia Connect app to remotely start the car, precondition the cabin (great for cold mornings), or check charging status. It’s free for the first five years.

Safety Tech: Peace of Mind for Families

Kia’s commitment to safety shines in the Sorento EV. Every trim comes with Kia Drive Wise, a suite of advanced driver aids that includes:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCAA)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Blind-Spot View Monitor (displays camera feed in the instrument cluster)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Highway Driving Assist (keeps the car centered in the lane and adjusts speed automatically)

During a test drive in heavy traffic, the Highway Driving Assist worked impressively. It smoothly adjusted speed to match the car ahead and kept me centered in my lane—even on gentle curves. The only hiccup? It occasionally disengaged on poorly marked roads, so you still need to pay attention.

The 360-degree camera is another standout. It’s especially helpful when parking in tight spaces or navigating narrow driveways. The image quality is sharp, with minimal distortion, and the system overlays guidelines to help you judge distances.

Charging and Ownership Costs: What to Expect

Charging Infrastructure and Home Setup

One of the biggest concerns for new EV buyers is charging. The Kia Sorento electric car makes it easy. Kia partners with ChargePoint and Electrify America to provide access to over 100,000 public charging stations across the U.S. Many of these are DC fast chargers, which are ideal for road trips.

For home charging, Kia offers a free 240V Level 2 charger with purchase (installation not included). If you’re new to EVs, here’s what you need to know:

• Level 1 (120V): Slow—adds 3–5 miles of range per hour. Only for emergencies.
• Level 2 (240V): Fast—adds 25–35 miles of range per hour. Ideal for home use.
• DC Fast Charging: Super fast—adds 150–200 miles in 30 minutes. Best for road trips.

Tip: Install your home charger near your driveway or garage. If you have solar panels, you can charge your Sorento EV for free during the day!

Total Cost of Ownership: Savings Over Time

While the Kia Sorento electric car has a higher upfront cost than its gas-powered counterpart, it saves money in the long run. Here’s a quick comparison (based on 15,000 miles/year, $3.50/gallon gas, $0.15/kWh electricity):

As you can see, the PHEV and EV versions are more economical over five years. Plus, many states offer additional incentives—like HOV lane access or reduced registration fees—for EV owners.

Competition and Who Should Buy the Kia Sorento Electric Car

How It Stacks Up Against Rivals

The midsize electric SUV market is heating up. The Kia Sorento electric car competes with:

• Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV: Similar powertrain and price, but the Sorento offers more tech and a slightly better ride.
• Ford Explorer EV (upcoming): Expected to have a longer range (350+ miles) but higher price.
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid: More cargo space but no plug-in option.
• Kia EV9: Larger and fully electric, but starts at $55,000—$10K more than the Sorento EV.

The Sorento EV’s sweet spot is its balance of size, price, and tech. It’s not the largest SUV, but it’s more maneuverable than the EV9. It’s not the cheapest, but it undercuts luxury EVs like the Tesla Model Y and Polestar 3 while offering similar features.

Who Should Consider It?

The Kia Sorento electric car is ideal for:

• Families: Spacious interior, third row, and top safety ratings.
• Commuters: 30+ miles of electric range (PHEV) or 280+ miles (EV) covers most daily drives.
• Eco-conscious buyers: Lower emissions, regenerative braking, and solar charging compatibility.
• Tech enthusiasts: OTA updates, voice assistant, and advanced driver aids.

Who might want to look elsewhere?

• Long-haul travelers: If you frequently drive 300+ miles in one trip, the EV version’s range might be limiting.
• Budget buyers: The base PHEV is $42K—$5K more than the gas model.
• Off-roaders: The Sorento EV isn’t designed for serious trails, though it handles light dirt roads well.

Final Verdict: A Strong Contender in the Electric SUV Race

After spending time with the Kia Sorento electric car—both the PHEV and the upcoming EV version—I’m convinced it’s one of the most well-rounded midsize SUVs in its class. It doesn’t try to be flashy or revolutionary. Instead, it focuses on what matters: comfort, practicality, and smart technology.

The PHEV version is a fantastic bridge for those easing into electrification. It lets you drive electric most days while keeping the flexibility of gas for longer trips. And when the all-electric version arrives, it promises to deliver even more range, faster charging, and a quieter ride—all without sacrificing the Sorento’s family-friendly DNA.

Is it perfect? Not quite. The third row is tight for adults, and the infotainment system, while improved, still has a learning curve. But these are minor gripes in an otherwise excellent package. Kia has clearly listened to feedback and built a vehicle that meets real-world needs.

If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV and want to reduce your carbon footprint—or just save on gas—the Kia Sorento electric car deserves a spot on your test drive list. It’s not just a car; it’s a smarter, greener way to move your family forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the Kia Sorento Electric Car?

The Kia Sorento Electric Car offers an estimated range of up to 300 miles on a single charge, depending on driving conditions and trim level. This makes it a competitive option for families seeking a spacious electric SUV with practical range.

How fast does the Kia Sorento Electric Car charge?

Using a Level 3 DC fast charger, the Sorento Electric can recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 45 minutes. With a Level 2 home charger, a full charge typically takes around 9–10 hours.

Does the Kia Sorento Electric Car have all-wheel drive?

Yes, select trims of the Kia Sorento Electric Car come with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, offering improved traction and stability in various weather conditions. This feature enhances its appeal for drivers in regions with snow or rain.

What are the standout features of the Kia Sorento Electric Car?

The Sorento Electric includes premium features like a 12.3-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety tech such as Highway Driving Assist. Its roomy three-row seating also sets it apart from many electric SUVs.

Is the Kia Sorento Electric Car eligible for federal tax credits?

As of now, the Kia Sorento Electric Car may qualify for federal tax incentives of up to $7,500, depending on battery sourcing and income eligibility. Check the latest IRS guidelines to confirm current eligibility.

How does the Kia Sorento Electric Car compare to gas-powered models?

The electric version of the Sorento delivers smoother acceleration, lower maintenance costs, and zero tailpipe emissions compared to its gas-powered counterpart. While cargo space is slightly reduced due to the battery, it retains most of the practicality and interior space of the hybrid and ICE models.