2025 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid

The 2025 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid combines rugged style with advanced technology, offering a turbocharged powertrain, all-wheel drive, and an estimated 32 miles of all-electric range in a sleek three-row SUV package. As reported by Car and Driver, this refreshed model adopts updated exterior styling and interior upgrades, bringing a bold new look to Kia's versatile midsize SUV lineup.

The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid receives a significant exterior refresh, aligning its design with the updates introduced on the non-hybrid models in 2024. The front fascia features a bold new look with a wider grille and vertically stacked LED headlights, comprising four individual units that create a distinctive lighting signature. The daytime running lamps and LED turn signals have also been redesigned for a more modern appearance. At the rear, the taillights have been updated to complement the front-end changes. Kia has introduced new color options for 2025, including Midnight Lake Blue, while Panthera Metal replaces Gravity Gray in the exterior paint palette. These updates give the Sorento Hybrid a more contemporary and assertive presence on the road, enhancing its appeal in the competitive three-row SUV segment.

The 2025 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid boasts a powerful and efficient powertrain, combining a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor to produce a total output of 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This setup is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, providing capable performance for various driving conditions. The plug-in hybrid system allows for an estimated all-electric range of 32 miles, making it suitable for short commutes without using any gasoline. In Car and Driver's testing, the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid demonstrated respectable acceleration, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds. While not the quickest in its class, the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid offers a balanced blend of performance and efficiency, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 34 mpg combined in hybrid mode.

The 2025 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid comes equipped with an array of advanced safety features designed to enhance driver confidence and passenger protection. Standard safety technologies include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. The SUV also offers Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, which adjusts speed for upcoming curves, and Highway Driving Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist to reduce highway driving fatigue. Additionally, the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid features a comprehensive airbag system, including nine airbags strategically placed across all three rows, with new rear side impact airbags for enhanced occupant safety.

The 2025 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is offered in two well-equipped trim levels: EX and SX Prestige. The base EX trim starts at $49,365, while the range-topping SX Prestige is priced at $54,465 (all prices include a $1,375 destination charge). Both trims come standard with all-wheel drive and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-centering steering. The SX Prestige adds luxury amenities such as leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and Kia's Digital Key 2.0 Advanced, which allows owners to use paired smartphones as vehicle keys.

The 2025 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid stands out as a compelling option in the three-row SUV market, offering a blend of efficiency, technology, and versatility. With its estimated 32-mile all-electric range and 74 MPGe combined fuel economy, it provides significant fuel savings for daily commutes and short trips. The refreshed design, featuring a bold new front fascia and upgraded interior with a panoramic curved display, enhances its appeal. While the Sorento PHEV may not be the quickest in its class, its turbocharged hybrid powertrain delivers a balanced performance with 261 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as a tight third row and the absence of a spare tire, the Sorento PHEV's combination of advanced safety features, comfortable interior, and efficient powertrain makes it a strong contender for families seeking a capable and eco-friendly SUV.