Call Us: 
Email Us: 
The Kia Sorento, a mainstay in the midsize SUV segment, is entering a new phase of its current generation, bringing a comprehensive refresh to the U.S. market. With official pricing and details released by Kia America, the three-row SUV is poised to maintain its reputation as a feature-rich, versatile family SUV.
What You’ll Learn
In this guide, we will answer:
Is there going to be a 2026 Kia Sorento across all powertrains?
What upgrades did the 2025 and 2026 Sorento receive?
How much does the 2026 Kia Sorento cost?
Overview
Is There Going To Be A 2026 Kia Sorento?
Yes, Kia America has officially confirmed the release of the 2026 Kia Sorento, which includes the gasoline, Sorento Hybrid (HEV), and Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) models.
The introduction of the 2026 model year completes the transition of Kia’s popular midsize crossover lineup to its newly updated design aesthetic and technology suite. This confirms that the new Kia Sorento will be available across all powertrain options next year.
Is The 2025 Kia Sorento Getting A Redesign?
The Sorento is getting a major update for the American market. The rollout spans the 2025 and 2026 model years. The timing depends on the engine type.
Gasoline Models
The 2025 Sorento gas models were the first to receive significant changes. They feature a sharp new exterior that follows Kia’s modern design direction. Vertically stacked headlights and a bold grille give the SUV a stronger look.
Hybrid and PHEV Models
The 2026 Sorento Hybrid and Sorento Plug-in Hybrid now receive the same exterior upgrades. This keeps the entire lineup consistent with the refreshed design.
Interior and Technology
The cabin gets a major tech update. Buyers can now get dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system.
New Off-Road Option
The 2026 Sorento lineup adds the X-Pro trim. It has an off-road-inspired setup that enhances capability for drivers seeking more adventure.
These updates follow Kia’s global strategy for refreshing the Sorento. This aligns the U.S. model with changes launched in other markets. The result keeps the three-row SUV competitive with current technology and styling.
How Much Will The 2026 Kia Sorento Cost?
Kia America has announced the official starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2026 Kia Sorento lineup. Prices exclude a $1,445 destination and handling fee:
What Is The Most Common Problem With The Kia Sorento?
Based on official data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), one of the most significant and recurring safety issues for recent Sorento generations involves a major safety recall involving the tow hitch harness accessory. This recall is filed under NHTSA Recall Number: 22V703.
This recall addresses a major safety concern involving the tow-hitch harness accessory installed on several Kia models. The issue affects 70,887 vehicles, with an estimated 1% containing the defect.
Affected Vehicles
The recall covers vehicles equipped with a Genuine Kia tow hitch harness within these production ranges:
2016–2022 Kia Sorento (gas)
2021–2023 Sorento Hybrid (HEV)
2022–2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)
2017–2022 Kia Sportage
All affected vehicles were built with, or later fitted with, the tow-hitch harness as a port-installed or dealer-installed accessory.
Core Defect
The tow-hitch harness module can accumulate contamination on its printed circuit board (PCB). Debris or moisture may enter the module, causing an electrical short.
This short can lead to a fire, and it can happen:
While driving
While the vehicle is parked
Even when the ignition is turned off
Safety Risk
The defect can cause a fire in the area of the tow hitch harness module.
Any fire increases the risk of injury to occupants and others nearby.
No warning signs are known to precede failure.
Kia America has released a final repair procedure. The remedy requires replacing the tow hitch harness module. Until this repair is completed at an authorized dealership, Kia and the NHTSA advise owners to park the vehicle outdoors and keep it away from buildings or other cars as a precaution.
Final Thoughts: What This Means for Your Next SUV
The Sorento continues to evolve in ways that matter to families, commuters, and weekend explorers. Kia blends style, capability, and safety improvements to keep the SUV competitive in a crowded market. This balance of progress and accountability helps buyers move forward with clarity and ease.
Ready to Ship Your Kia Sorento?
If you plan to move your current Sorento or ship your upcoming 2026 model, make the process simple and safe with AmeriFreight Auto Transport. We have more than 20 years of experience as a trusted auto transport broker.
Our team vets every carrier through strict background checks. We review available safety and insurance information before arranging transport with a carrier. This helps you get smooth transport with strong protection at every step.
Get your free quote today and ship with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When did the Kia Sorento get redesigned?
The latest full redesign of the Kia Sorento was for the 2021 model year, which introduced the current fourth generation (MQ4) platform.
How long does the 2025 Sorento last?
With proper maintenance, the Kia Sorento is generally expected to last between 200,000 and 250,000 miles, supported by its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
What are the disadvantages of Kia cars?
Common disadvantages of Kia cars include a history of engine and transmission issues in certain models, vulnerability to theft due to keyless entry flaws in specific model years, and safety recalls related to fire risk.
Disclaimer
Information in this guide is based on publicly available data and official sources at the time of writing. Pricing, specifications, and recall details may change. Always verify the latest information with Kia, the NHTSA, or your local dealership before making any purchasing or safety decisions.
