2022 Toyota Highlander vs Kia Sorento

Three-row SUVs have made their mark as a practical and convenient vehicle option, especially for growing households. The 2022 Toyota Highlander and Kia Sorento stand out in particular - they offer all the ruggedness of an SUV with added high-end features to boot! Plus, these models come guaranteed with safety as top priority.

The Powertrain

Experience a sense of adventure with the Toyota Highlander - whether you're driving through tough terrain or need to zip past traffic, this powerful ride equips drivers for any journey. With impressive power and either 295 hp from its gas engine or 243 combined total in hybrid models, your travels are sure to be smooth sailing! Enjoy reliable performance married with modern comfort so that nothing stands between you and your destination. Get ready-for anything today: take control of an uncompromising vehicle made just for life's adventures.

The Kia Sorento offers a range of powertrain options, from the standard 2.5-liter engine that provides 191 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque to an optional turbocharged version for those looking for more performance. This improved motor boasts 281 horses and 311 pounds per feet of torque - making it nearly 50 percent stronger than its non-turbo counterpart! To take advantage of this extra might, both motors are equipped with eight speed automatic transmissions; however, the boosted engine is additionally paired with sporting DCT transmission too – further increasing your level driving thrills.

The Kia Sorento's hybrid powertrain packs a serious punch, combining a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and electric system to generate 227 horsepower - that's more than enough for some thrilling off-roading adventures! And it doesn't stop there: 258 pound-feet of torque is also at your disposal, making the ride smoother than ever before.

It's clear that going hybrid pays off - the Highlander Hybrid boasts a fuel economy of 36 mpg in city driving and 35 on highways. The Sorento Hybrid outdoes even this, with 39mpg for cities and 35 highway! When looking at standard models however, it gets much worse: 21/29 (city/highway) miles per gallon for the regular Highlander to be precise. A turbocharged version does better than its naturally aspirated counterpart though; scoring up to 24 MPG city-side and 29MPG when cruising down open roads.

All-wheel drive is a great feature for those who want extra confidence and control, even in challenging weather or terrain. It offers increased traction plus the added peace of mind that comes with reliable power to all four wheels - perfect for an adventurous getaway! Although it does decrease fuel efficiency slightly, its benefits often outweigh this small cost.

There are slightly different types of all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems available in the Highlander and the Sorento. Hybrid Highlanders would have an electronic on-demand AWD system, while traditional Highlanders can either have a regular AWD system or Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD. This advanced AWD would be able send more power to the right or left wheel, depending on which wheel can use it most. A hybrid Sorento has a typical AWD system, while a non-hybrid can be equipped with a torque-vectoring AWD with center-locking differential. This is useful when dealing with rugged terrain and tough conditions.

A few Highlanders can be enhanced with a special suspension. They can have a sport-tuned suspension that results in sharper handling. This type of suspension is firmer than a regular one, and as a result, stability is enhanced when making steep turns or cornering at higher speeds.

There are several drive modes that people can take advantage of when behind the wheel of either vehicle. The Sorento has a program called Drive Mode Select. Choices are Eco, Sport, Comfort, Smart, and Custom, with non-hybrid AWD models also having Snow mode. Comfort would likely be the mode that most drivers use on a regular basis. Eco mode increases efficiency, while Sport does the opposite so that it can provide a more exciting ride. Smart mode automatically adjusts to the situation and can adapt to a particular driver's habits, and Custom allows drivers to come up with their own settings.

Sport, Eco, and Normal modes are available with the Highlander as well. Hybrid versions would have the addition of EV mode, or electric vehicle mode. This can be used for limited periods of time to maximize use of the electric system. Non-hybrids with front-wheel drive would have Snow mode in case they ever have to face slippery roads in the winter. Hybrids with all-wheel drive get to have Trail mode to enhance their traction, and non-hybrids with all-wheel drive have a Multi-Terrain Select dial that provides some extra modes. Those modes can be selected if the SUV has to make its way through or over mud, sand, rocks, or dirt.

The Highlander's towing capacity is definitely up there, with non-hybrid models able to tow a whopping 5,000 pounds. That's double the power of your average Sorento! Even the turbocharged version falls short when it comes to hauling cargo - only managing 3,500 pounds at its peak performance. For maximum load capability and strength on any journey you take in an SUV, look no further than the hybrid Highlander.

Drivability

The Toyota Highlander offers a powerful driving experience, made even more impressive given its ability to quickly trounce the previous Sorento model. With the introduction of the beefed up turbocharger in this new generation, however, it's clear that there is now healthy competition between them!

With space for three rows of seats, the Sorento has an overall length of about 189 inches. That makes it five inches shorter than the Highlander is. The Highlander is also a bit taller and wider than the Sorento is. Most people will not be able to notice the difference with these dimensions, except possibly when parallel parking or when parking in a smaller garage.

The all-wheel drive Kia Sorento gives a slightly more elevated ride than the front wheel model, with an impressive 8.2 inches of ground clearance - making it one of the higher rides among SUVs. Meanwhile, its Toyota counterpart Highlander stands tall at eight full inches above the ground for easy navigation around any terrain!

The interiors of these vehicles look quite spacious. They each have very comfortable first and second rows, with smaller third rows. Third-row leg room in the Highlander is only 27.7 inches. Those riding in the back of the Sorento have a bit more space with 29.6 inches of leg room. First- and second-row Sorento passengers have 41.4 and 41.7 inches of leg room, respectively. Those corresponding numbers for the Highlander are 42 and 41 inches.

It's important to note that the back seat of the Sorento only has space for two passengers. In contrast, the Highlander has room for three people in its third row. AS a result, the Highlander has a maximum seating capacity of eight, and the Sorento can accommodate up to seven total people.

With the Highlander, you can choose between a classic bench seating configuration for maximum occupancy or two captain's chairs in the middle row to maximize comfort. Enjoy increased interior spaciousness and greater levels of relaxation with this second option - ideal when travelling longer distances with your family!

The Sorento, too, can have a pair of captain's chairs in its middle row. This would reduce seating capacity to six. Many people feel that this results in a more executive look, and if that extra seat isn't needed, it doesn't need to be there.

With its bigger size, the Highlander has more space for cargo. Its maximum cargo capacity is 84.3 cubic feet, compared with the Sorento's cargo capacity of 75.5 cubic feet. Behind the rear row in each cabin, the cargo hold is fairly narrow. The Highlander can hold 16 cubic feet of items in this area, and the Sorento's rear cargo hold has a volume of 12.6 cubic feet.

It's pretty easy to fold the rear seats down. The third rows of the Sorento and Highlander have reclining seatbacks, and the second-row seatbacks can be slid and folded forward very quickly.

Stay connected while on the go with Toyota's advanced tech features! The Highlander offers an array of options to keep you updated—eight-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen, 5 USB ports and standard SiriusXM radio plus Wi-Fi Connect & Amazon Alexa compatibility. For those looking for more bells and whistles, there’s also wireless charging capability as well as an 11 speaker JBL sound system + optional integrated navigation included in some models - enabling every driver to stay safe and in touch without ever leaving their lane.

The Kia Sorento offers an array of sophisticated features to meet a variety of needs. From its up to six USB ports and basic 6-speaker system perfect for on-the-go connectivity, through the upgradable 12 speaker Bose audio setup ideal for audiophiles alike - every ride will be accompanied by complete sound enjoyment! Not only that, but SiriusXM satellite radio across trims along with navigation systems and 8 or 10 inch touchscreen displays enhance each journey even further. No matter which trim level you choose – one thing's certain: something special awaits within.

Safety

Toyota and Kia are companies that have focused on safety. Both the Highlander and the Sorento have numerous driver-assist technologies that are ready to jump into action at any moment. Automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning can prevent many kinds of accidents, and so can lane departure warning and lane keeping assist. With both SUVs, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are found in mid-level and higher trims, but the Sorento has the corresponding mitigation systems.

The Sorento is packed with safe driving features like driver attention warning and navigation-based cruise control. Now, you'll never miss a red light! Plus, parking distance warnings help protect your car from scratches when backing up. For extra security against potential collisions–and peace of mind for any wary driver–reverse automatic braking adds an added layer of protection plus the surround view monitor lets you keep tabs on what's happening all around you.

The Highlander comes standard with adaptive cruise control, though it's not linked to the navigation system. The Toyota also has a program called Road Sign Assist so that it can remind drivers about signs that they may have missed. Available upgrades for the Highlander include a surround view monitor and a ten-inch head-up display.

Which Has the Best Value?

These models are well-matched in many ways, but the Sorento is the cheaper model. Its starting price manages to stay under $30,000. Its entry-level trim, the LX, costs $29,590, and the next one in the lineup costs $32,390. Two other trims, which also have the regular engine, cost around $35,000.

People should expect to pay more for the turbocharged engine. Sorento models with the more powerful engine cost around $40,000 or more. The most expensive one is the X-Line SX Prestige with AWD, and it costs $43,190. The two hybrid Sorento's cost $34,090 and $36,090, with AWD requiring an additional fee.

The Toyota Highlander is renowned for its robust engine and spacious interior - both of which come at a cost; topping off the range at $48,010. For those looking to go green, there's also an eye-catching hybrid version available that won't stretch your wallet too much with prices starting from just under fifty grand.

Toyota and Kia have created two luxurious SUVs that boast advanced technology, comprehensive safety systems, heated front seats and second-row seating. For ultimate comfort during every drive they are also equipped with leather upholstery while the panoramic sunroofs brings a touch of class to any journey! These vehicles even come with practical features like handsfree power liftgates - ensuring convenience is standard in your experience.

Which Is Better?

In the battle between Highlander and Sorento, it's a close call. While both offer impressive performance capabilities with their engines, size is what sets them apart; the turbocharged engine of the Sorento does justice to its power output whereas for those in need of greater hauling capacity – whether cargo or passengers – then you will struggle to look beyond The Highlanders remarkable tow rating!

With the eco-friendly route becoming increasingly popular, car buyers are now presented with a wide range of hybrid options. Among these is the ever-popular Kia Sorento and Toyota Highlander - both offering different advantages in regards to efficiency. The Sorento edges out its counterpart when comparing hybrids but still falls behind on non-hybrid models. Which one will you choose?

When it comes to the Highlander and Sorento, those needing extra seating may find themselves leaning toward the former. However, for drivers content with a two-seater car who don't mind having slightly less power than is available in an SUV like the Highlander, then they can save money without being left wanting thanks to what's on offer in the Sorento. The difference between them really boils down to assessing how much space or punch you truly need - so make sure your decision has been well informed!