2022 Kia Sorento vs the 2022 Toyota Highlander in Racine WI

Contrasting the 2022 Kia Sorento against the 2022 Toyota Highlander

This side-by-side analysis shows many of the stats, specs, and features that you’re looking for in your new mid-sized SUV. Our goal is to help you make a decision in your purchase. Please have a look! Specs are based on the base trim level unless noted otherwise.

Feature / Spec	2022 Kia Sorento	2022 Toyota Highlander
Starting MSRP	$29,590	$35,405
Motor / Drive	2.5L 4-cylinder / FWD	3.5L V6 / FWD
Horsepower / Torque lb.-ft	191 / 181	295 / 263
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic Transmission	8-Speed Automatic Transmission
Safety Features	Some advanced features like Front Collision Avoidance and Lane Follow Assist	Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+
Infotainment	8.0-inch Touchscreen	8.0-inch Touchscreen
Fuel Economy MPG City / Hwy	24 / 29	21 / 29
Seating	Up to 7 people	Up to 8 people
Wheels	17”	18”
Max Cargo Space Cubic Feet	75.5	84.3

The Highlander has a clear advantage in standard engine and safety features; however, the price difference means you can upgrade both to comparable levels on your Sorento and still have some money left over. The Highlander has a slight advantage in seating and max cargo space, however the superior mileage in the Sorento balances that out. In the end, these two automotive giants have created excellent vehicles. We feel that the Sorento base level has a slight advantage, and the other trim levels have a lot to offer.

2022 Kia Sorento Available Powertrains

2022 Kia Sorento Powertrains

Something Toyota does not offer in the Highlander is the availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The 2022 Kia Sorento offers:

2.5L 4-cylinder with 191 horsepower.
Turbo-Hybrid with 227 combined horsepower.
2.5L Turbo with 281 horsepower.
Turbo Plug-In Hybrid with 261 horsepower.

All can be equipped with available AWD with locking differential. You can run the plug-in hybrid in EV (Electric Vehicle) mode around town, meaning you could commute 15 miles each way without burning any gas.