2025 Kia Sorento PHEV SX-Prestige AWD - Check it out!

 

Sometimes when I like a car it's difficult to write a review. When I don't like a car the words just seem to flow. What I'm trying to say is my review of the '25 Kia Sorento PHEV may be short and sweet.

I've made no secret of my feelings about Kia's vehicles. I like them. And that's after I had a bad experience with a Kia I bought. I chalk that up to a one-off exacerbated by a dealership. (In my opinion dealerships can be the weak link in new car ownership.)

The Sorento is a mid-size SUV; it is 189.6" long, and 74.8" wide. The version tested, a '25 PHEV SX-Prestige weighs 4,652 lbs.

PHEV stands for "Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle." It does not have much range as an EV, only 30 miles. But if you plug it in every night that 30 miles may be enough to run around town, or get to work and back (if you work near your home) without having to use the gas engine. Fuel economy using just the gas engine is rated at 33 mpg city and highway. Drive judiciously - engaging the electric motor - and you'll see much better around town.

The gas engine is a 1.6-liter, turbocharged four that puts out 177.2 hp and 195.4 ft-lbs. Power is sent through a 6-speed automatic trans to all four wheels. 

The SX-Prestige has seating for six - 2, 2, and 2. If I were buying a Sorento I'd opt for the Dust Blue Leather Seat Trim even though it costs an extra $295. White just doesn't work for me.

As you can see I easily exceeded the rated mpg.

If I have a complaint about the Sorento it is the same complaint I have about so many new cars - too many controls. New cars are getting to be like my smart phone - loaded with stuff I don't need, don't use, or don't understand.

Other than that complaint, and it is a personal issue, I really liked the 2025 Kia Sorento PHEV SX-Prestige AWD. It was comfortable, large enough that I didn't feel intimidated by the big rigs on the highway yet small enough (relatively) that it was easy to maneuver. 

There is more than enough cargo room with the second and third row seats folded down. It is good looking and it has presence. 

Pricing starts at $53,090 (kia.com), as tested it was $54,690. That included $225 for floor mats, and $1,375 for freight and handling. I like it, you may too.