Kia Sorento 2024 AWD XPRO: A Comprehensive Review

The 2024 Kia Sorento AWD XPRO is here, and it promises to be a game-changer in the midsize crossover market. With its combination of off-road capability, refined interior, and modern technology, the Sorento XPRO aims to appeal to a broad spectrum of buyers. But does it deliver on all fronts? In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, interior, and off-road capabilities of this new model to help you decide if it’s the right vehicle for you.

Overview

For 2024, the Kia Sorento receives a midcycle refresh that brings several updates and the introduction of the XPRO package. This new variant aims to enhance the Sorento’s off-road prowess without compromising its on-road comfort. The model we tested is the top Prestige trim with all-wheel drive and the XPRO package, priced at $49,400, including destination charges. This package adds all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and a larger radiator, among other features.

The Sorento has always been a versatile and reliable choice in the midsize crossover segment, but the addition of the XPRO package elevates its capabilities and appeal. The XPRO package is tailored for those who seek adventure and require a vehicle that can handle rough terrains and challenging conditions. With the increasing popularity of outdoor activities and overlanding, the Sorento XPRO is well-positioned to attract a new wave of buyers who want a vehicle that can do it all.

2024 Kia Sorento Exterior Design

The 2024 Sorento XPRO stands out with its rugged and stylish design. The XPRO package includes several exterior enhancements that give it a more robust appearance:

• BFG Trail Terrain T/A Tires: These 235/65 R17 all-terrain tires are designed for off-road performance. The tread pattern is optimized for traction, although it may not be the best for water evacuation. These tires not only enhance the vehicle’s off-road capability but also add to its aggressive look.
• Increased Ground Clearance: The Sorento XPRO offers 8.2 inches of ground clearance, which is beneficial for off-road adventures. This increased clearance allows the Sorento to tackle rough trails and obstacles with more confidence.
• Distinctive Styling: The XPRO model features unique design elements, including a more aggressive front grille, exclusive badging, and rugged accents. The blacked-out trim and skid plates further enhance its rugged appeal. The Sorento XPRO also sports roof rails and a roof rack, making it easy to carry additional gear for your adventures.

The exterior design of the Sorento XPRO is a perfect blend of modern aesthetics and functional enhancements. The bold and commanding presence of the vehicle is sure to turn heads, whether you’re driving through the city or exploring remote trails. The attention to detail in the design, from the LED headlights to the muscular fender flares, reflects Kia’s commitment to creating a vehicle that is both visually appealing and highly capable.

2024 Kia Sorento Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2024 Sorento XPRO, you are greeted with a refined and luxurious cabin that exudes quality. The interior is designed to offer both comfort and functionality, making it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you’re on a long road trip or a daily commute.

• Cargo Space: With the third row in place, the cargo space is limited to 12.6 cubic feet. However, folding the third row increases the space to 38.5 cubic feet, and with all rows folded flat, you get a maximum of 75.5 cubic feet. This ample cargo space ensures that you can carry all your gear, groceries, and luggage without any hassle.
• Seating: The Sorento XPRO features captain’s chairs in the second row, which are adjustable and provide excellent comfort. The third-row seats are less comfortable, with limited legroom and a low seating position. However, they are suitable for short trips or for accommodating children. The front seats are highly supportive, with multiple adjustments and lumbar support, ensuring that you remain comfortable during long drives.
• Panoramic Sunroof: One of the standout features is the massive panoramic sunroof, which lets in plenty of light and enhances the sense of space in the cabin. Whether you’re driving through the city or the countryside, the panoramic sunroof provides a delightful view of the sky and surroundings.
• Technology: The interior is packed with modern technology, including a curved display that integrates a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster and infotainment system. This setup is both visually appealing and functional. The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, with features like navigation, voice control, and smartphone integration.
• Convenience Features: The Sorento XPRO comes with a variety of convenience features, including USB-C sockets, wireless charging, ventilated and heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. These features ensure that you and your passengers remain comfortable and connected at all times.

The interior of the Sorento XPRO is thoughtfully designed to provide a premium experience. The use of high-quality materials, such as soft-touch surfaces, leather upholstery, and metallic accents, adds to the luxurious feel. The cabin is also well-insulated, providing a quiet and serene environment, even at highway speeds.

2024 Kia Sorento Performance and Driving Experience

Under the hood, the 2024 Sorento XPRO is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), which has its pros and cons.

• Engine Performance: The turbocharged engine offers strong performance, with plenty of power for highway driving and off-road adventures. The engine’s power delivery is smooth and responsive, making it easy to overtake slower vehicles and merge onto highways. However, the turbo lag can be noticeable, particularly during sudden acceleration.
• Transmission: The 8-speed DCT provides quick and smooth shifts in most driving conditions. However, it is less suited for off-road crawling, where a traditional automatic transmission would be preferable. The DCT is designed for efficiency and performance, but it may not be the best choice for slow and precise off-road maneuvers.
• Fuel Economy: The Sorento XPRO is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is respectable for a vehicle in this class. These figures make the Sorento XPRO an efficient choice for long road trips and daily commutes.
• Drive Modes: The Sorento XPRO offers multiple drive modes, including Eco, Sport, Smart, and Snow. Each mode adjusts the vehicle’s performance characteristics to suit different driving conditions. The Eco mode prioritizes fuel efficiency, while the Sport mode enhances the vehicle’s responsiveness and acceleration. The Snow mode provides extra traction and stability on slippery surfaces.

The driving experience of the Sorento XPRO is characterized by a comfortable ride, responsive handling, and strong performance. The suspension system is tuned to provide a smooth and composed ride, even on rough roads. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback and control. Whether you’re navigating city streets, highways, or off-road trails, the Sorento XPRO delivers a confident and enjoyable driving experience.

2024 Kia Sorento Off-Road Capabilities

The XPRO package is designed to enhance the Sorento’s off-road capabilities, and it does a commendable job in most situations. However, there are some limitations to be aware of.

• All-Wheel Drive System: The Sorento XPRO uses a multi-plate clutch system to distribute power to the rear wheels when needed. This system is effective in most off-road scenarios but lacks the sophistication of more advanced systems like Honda’s i-VTM4. The AWD system provides good traction and stability on loose surfaces, such as dirt, gravel, and snow.
• Trail Performance: In testing, the Sorento XPRO handled moderate off-road trails with ease. The all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance allowed it to navigate obstacles and uneven terrain without issue. The vehicle’s approach and departure angles are also improved, making it easier to climb over rocks and logs.
• Limitations: The Sorento XPRO struggles with more challenging off-road conditions due to its limited ground clearance and lack of advanced off-road features like underbody protection and dedicated trail modes. For example, during the log test, the vehicle had difficulty maintaining traction and required momentum to overcome obstacles. While the Sorento XPRO is capable of handling light to moderate off-road trails, it is not designed for extreme off-roading.

The off-road capabilities of the Sorento XPRO make it a suitable choice for weekend adventures and outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring forest trails, camping in remote areas, or driving on snowy roads, the Sorento XPRO provides the confidence and capability you need to tackle various terrains.

2024 Kia Sorento Safety Features

Safety is a priority for Kia, and the 2024 Sorento XPRO is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features.

• Standard Safety Features: These include blind-spot monitoring, collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. These features help to enhance driver awareness and reduce the risk of accidents.
• Advanced Safety: The Sorento XPRO also features a digital rearview mirror, which provides a clear view of the road behind, even when the back seats are occupied or cargo is blocking the rear window. The digital rearview mirror uses a high-resolution camera to provide a wide and unobstructed view.

In addition to these features, the Sorento XPRO is built with a robust safety structure that includes crumple zones, high-strength steel, and multiple airbags. The vehicle has received high safety ratings from various testing organizations, reflecting its commitment to protecting occupants in the event of a collision.

2024 Kia Sorento Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment system in the 2024 Sorento XPRO is one of its highlights, offering a range of features to keep you connected and entertained on the go.

• Curved Display: The dual 12.4-inch curved display integrates both the digital gauge cluster and the infotainment system. This setup is both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly. The curved display provides a seamless and immersive experience, with crisp graphics and intuitive controls.
• Voice Commands: The voice command system allows you to control various functions, such as navigation and climate control, using simple voice prompts. This hands-free functionality enhances convenience and safety, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: These features are available both wired and wirelessly, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of smartphones. Whether you prefer using your phone for navigation, music, or calls, the Sorento XPRO makes it easy to stay connected.
• Premium Sound System: The Sorento XPRO comes with a Bose premium sound system, delivering excellent audio quality for your favorite music and podcasts. The sound system is finely tuned to provide rich and immersive sound, making every drive more enjoyable.

The infotainment and connectivity features of the Sorento XPRO ensure that you and your passengers remain entertained and informed throughout your journey. The system is designed to be user-friendly and responsive, with a range of customization options to suit your preferences.

2024 Kia Sorento Practicality and Usability

The 2024 Sorento XPRO is designed to be a practical and versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks and scenarios.

• Interior Storage: There are plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and under-floor storage in the cargo area. These storage spaces provide ample room for personal items, snacks, and travel essentials.
• Towing Capacity: The Sorento XPRO can tow up to 4,500 pounds, making it suitable for hauling small trailers, boats, and other recreational equipment. However, it does not come with a tow hitch receiver as standard. The towing capacity allows you to bring along additional gear and equipment for your adventures.
• Comfort and Convenience: Features like the powered tailgate, multiple USB ports, and easy-to-use infotainment system make the Sorento XPRO a convenient vehicle for families and adventurers alike. The powered tailgate allows for easy access to the cargo area, while the multiple USB ports ensure that all passengers can keep their devices charged.

The practicality and usability of the Sorento XPRO make it a versatile choice for a wide range of activities. Whether you’re running errands, going on a road trip, or embarking on an outdoor adventure, the Sorento XPRO is equipped to handle your needs with ease and convenience.

2024 Kia Sorento Comparison with Competitors

The 2024 Kia Sorento XPRO faces stiff competition in the midsize crossover segment. Let’s see how it stacks up against some of its key rivals.

Honda Pilot TrailSport

• Price: Both the Sorento XPRO and Pilot TrailSport are similarly priced, around $49,000.
• Off-Road Capability: The Pilot TrailSport offers a more advanced all-wheel-drive system with better off-road performance, including a dedicated trail mode and underbody protection. The Pilot’s i-VTM4 system is designed to provide optimal traction and stability in various off-road conditions.
• Interior: The Sorento XPRO’s interior is more luxurious and refined, with a more modern design and higher-quality materials. The Pilot’s interior is spacious and practical but lacks the premium feel of the Sorento XPRO.

Toyota Highlander

• Price: The Highlander is slightly more expensive but offers similar features and capabilities.
• Performance: The Highlander offers a smooth ride and a powerful V6 engine, but it lacks the off-road focus of the Sorento XPRO. The Highlander’s V6 engine provides strong performance, but it may not be as fuel-efficient as the Sorento’s turbocharged four-cylinder.
• Interior: The Highlander has a spacious and comfortable interior, but the Sorento XPRO offers a more modern and stylish cabin. The Highlander’s interior is designed for practicality, with plenty of storage space and user-friendly controls.

Subaru Ascent

• Price: The Ascent is priced similarly to the Sorento XPRO.
• Off-Road Capability: The Ascent offers standard all-wheel drive and good ground clearance, but it lacks the off-road-specific features of the Sorento XPRO. The Ascent’s Symmetrical AWD system provides excellent traction and stability on various surfaces.
• Interior: The Ascent’s interior is practical and family-friendly, but it doesn’t match the premium feel of the Sorento XPRO’s cabin. The Ascent offers plenty of space and comfort, but the Sorento XPRO provides a more upscale and luxurious experience.

Conclusion

The 2024 Kia Sorento AWD XPRO is a well-rounded midsize crossover that offers a blend of on-road comfort, off-road capability, and modern technology. It stands out with its stylish design, luxurious interior, and comprehensive list of features. While it may not be the best choice for hardcore off-road enthusiasts, it provides enough capability for most adventure seekers.

Pros:

• Stylish and rugged design: The exterior design of the Sorento XPRO is both modern and aggressive, making it a standout in its segment.
• Luxurious and well-equipped interior: The cabin is designed with high-quality materials and advanced technology, providing a premium experience for occupants.
• Strong performance from the turbocharged engine: The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers ample power and smooth acceleration.
• Advanced safety and infotainment features: The Sorento XPRO is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features and a state-of-the-art infotainment system.

Cons:

• Limited ground clearance for serious off-roading: The Sorento XPRO’s ground clearance is suitable for light to moderate off-roading but may not be enough for more challenging terrains.
• Turbo lag during sudden acceleration: The turbocharged engine may exhibit noticeable lag during sudden acceleration, which can affect the driving experience.
• Dual-clutch transmission not ideal for off-road crawling: The 8-speed DCT is designed for efficiency and performance but may not be the best choice for slow and precise off-road maneuvers.

Overall, the 2024 Kia Sorento AWD XPRO is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile and capable crossover that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring off-the-beaten-path trails, the Sorento XPRO is designed to get you there in comfort and style. With its blend of modern technology, luxurious interior, and off-road capability, the Sorento XPRO is well-suited to meet the needs of a wide range of buyers.