2026 Kia Sportage Vs. Kia Sorento: Which SUV Is Right For You?
- The Kia Sportage vs. Sorento is a popular SUV comparison offering distinct differences and brand-favorite similarities.
- Performance specs and fuel economy are relatively close across the two models, so dimensions and seating tend to be the deciding factors for families.
- As a compact crossover SUV, the Kia Sportage is smaller and more agile than the Sorento, seating up to five people. The midsize Sorento is longer and accommodates up to seven people.
- In this SUV comparison, we'll help you make an informed choice of the Sportage or Sorento.
As you explore our selection of SUVs in Frederick, MD, you will inevitably end up comparing the Kia Sportage vs. Sorento, two sought-after family models in the Kia lineup. Each offers unique advantages in terms of performance, interior space, and features. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which model is right for you as you shop at DARCARS Kia of Frederick.
Kia Sorento vs. Sportage: Specs
Let's kick off this comparison with some key information about Kia Sportage vs. Kia Sorento specs. As you'll see below, the Sportage has a smaller seating capacity but still holds its own with a spacious maximum cargo capacity.
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| Kia Sportage | Kia Sorento | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5L inline 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 187 | 191 |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic | Eight-speed automatic |
| Maximum Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
| Cargo Capacity 1st / 2nd / 3rd Row | 74.1 / 39.6 / — cu ft | 75.5 / 38.5–45 / 12.6 cu ft |
| Length | 184.4 in | 189.8 in |
| Width | 73.4 in | 74.8 in |
| Height (FWD) | 65.4 in (w/o roof rails) | 66.9 in |
What Makes the Kia Sorento and Sportage So Well-Suited for Maryland Driving?
Both the Kia Sorento and Sportage are versatile models ideal for all four seasons in Maryland. Featuring convenient tech and safety features for more peace of mind on high-traffic drives on Interstate 70, these SUVs are designed to protect you and your most precious cargo. The available heated and ventilated seats, as well as the heated steering wheel, are amazing for staying warm on brisk fall mornings and winter days. Although snowfall is often light in Frederick, MD, having AWD available ensures you're always prepared for whatever the weather brings.
Especially if you have a smaller family with young children, the Kia Sportage is a perfect SUV. It boasts a massive cargo capacity of 39.6 cubic feet behind the second row, allowing you to easily fit a stroller or baby bag while still accommodating your kids in the back seat. It is typically better for city drivers thanks to its shorter length.
The Kia Sorento, with its third row, is set up for larger families and is great for drives out to Rock Run Campground or Sugarloaf Mountain. As you know, one of the best things about living in Frederick is having the best of both worlds – the bustling city and the beautiful natural surroundings found in green urban spaces like Clover Hill or nearby Gambrill State Park. Which Kia SUV will help you make the most of all Frederick has to offer?
Kia Sportage vs. Sorento: Performance & Capability
Kia Sportage
- Engine Options: The Kia Sportage is equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 187 horsepower. A hybrid powertrain option is also available, featuring a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with a hybrid for a combined output of 231 horsepower. You can also opt for a Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, which features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a hybrid system capable of producing a combined 268 horsepower.
- Fuel Efficiency: A new Kia Sportage achieves impressive efficiency with an EPA-estimated 25/33/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) for FWD gas models.
Kia Sorento
- Engine Options: The new Kia Sorento comes in gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions. The gas version of the Sorento is available with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, as well as a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 281 horsepower. The Sorento Hybrid powertrain option features a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a full parallel hybrid system, producing a combined 227 horsepower. Additionally, a plug-in hybrid option is available, offering 261 horsepower.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Sorento gas-powered model impresses with its efficiency as well, with the base LX trim FWD configuration offering an EPA-estimated 23/31/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) – seriously impressive for a three-row SUV!
Kia Sportage vs. Sorento: Interior & Cargo Space
- Sportage: The Kia Sorento vs. Sportage size comparison reveals one of the biggest distinctions between these models. The Kia Sportage seats up to five passengers and provides 39.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 74.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
- Sorento: The Sorento accommodates up to seven passengers with its three-row seating configuration and offers 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, between 38.5 and 45 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 75.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.
Kia Sportage vs. Sorento: Technology & Features
Infotainment & Connectivity
- Sportage: The Sportage features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with navigation on higher trims, and is compatible with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The Sportage has a 12.3-inch instrument display with an integrated 4.2-inch cluster.
- Sorento: The Sorento also comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and adds navigation on the higher trims. Wireless App-Connect also comes standard. For the Sorento, it has either a 4-inch instrument display or an available 12.3-inch curved instrument display. Chat with our sales team and finance center to select a trim that aligns perfectly with your budget.
Safety & Driver Assistance
- Sportage: All new Kia SUVs come with advanced safety. The 2026 Sportage is equipped with a great variety of safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and available Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
- Sorento: The 2026 Sorento also offers standard safety technologies like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. Unlike the Sportage, the Sorento has Blind-Spot Collision Warning as standard fare.
Enjoy Your Own Sportage vs. Sorento Comparison Test Drives Here in Frederick, MD
After learning more about the features of the Kia Sportage and Kia Sorento SUVs, are you ready to lease or finance your top choice at our new Kia dealership? With various trim options available, we are confident you'll find the ideal fit for your needs.
Both models boast impressive designs and features. If you're ready to test-drive one of these vehicles, please don't hesitate to contact our team.
Additionally, if you're interested in financing your next Kia at DARCARS Kia of Frederick, complete our online form to get started today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much longer is a Kia Sorento than a Sportage?
Side by side, the 2026 Kia Sportage vs. Sorento comparison shows that the latter model is 5.4 inches longer than the former. While this is no more than the average length of a toothbrush, it still makes a big difference when sidling into tight parking spots or driving on narrow roads. The Kia Sorento does seat up to seven, while the Kia Sportage only fits five people.
Which SUV is better for smaller families?
Between the Sorento vs. Sportage, the compact crossover SUV is always great for smaller families. That's because there are only two rows, which opens up room for more cargo capacity. There is a difference of 1.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the Sportage's second row compared to the area behind the Sorento's second row, but the larger model takes up its rear compartment with a third row.
Which Kia SUV is easier to park, Sportage or Sorento?
If you're concerned about street parking while driving around in Maryland, you'll want to consider the Kia Sportage vs. Sorento lengths and heights. As the smaller model, the Sportage is 184.4 inches long and 73.4 inches wide. The Sorento is nearly half a foot longer but the same width. The Sportage may be a little easier to park, but both are manageable for your average parking space.
Featured Customer Review
Jerry Lefever
02/28/2025
We just purchased a new Kia Sportage from DARCARS Frederick. The entire purchase process was great. We worked with Brian and Spencer. Received a great deal on the vehicle we loved. There was no pressure at all. Everyone was great to work with. This was the first new vehicle we purchased in 18 years. I would highly recommend DARCARS Kia of Frederick for your next vehicle purchase.
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.