Kia Sorento Hybrid undercuts Toyota Highlander Hybrid by over $8,000
- Both the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid are appealing options for families, offering three-row seating while being smaller and less expensive than other SUVs in their class.
- The Kia Sorento is more affordable, starting at $40,105, compared to the Highlander Hybrid's $48,315, making it the more budget-friendly option.
- Overall, the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid are strong contenders for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and price, despite differences in passenger capacity and space.
In July 2025, Edmunds published a comparative analysis of two popular three-row hybrid SUVs—the Kia Sorento Hybrid and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Both vehicles are cited as strong contenders for families who may need to sacrifice some interior space for fuel efficiency and affordability. Although they belong to the hybrid SUV segment, they provide compelling options for buyers in search of family-oriented vehicles, especially for those who are drawn to smaller, less expensive models in comparison to larger SUVs like the Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander. The article highlights the differences in interior space and passenger capacity, noting that the Sorento Hybrid provides a maximum six-passenger capacity due to its second-row captain's chairs, while the Highlander Hybrid can fit seven passengers by offering an optional second-row bench seat. Moreover, the Highlander has a slight advantage in cargo capacity behind the third row, enabling it to carry a little more luggage. However, this marginal difference is tempered by the Sorento's compact size, making parking and maneuverability significantly easier, particularly for urban drivers. An important focus of the review is the fuel economy and performance of both SUVs. The Kia Sorento Hybrid achieves an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg for front-wheel drive configurations, while it drops slightly to 34 mpg when opting for all-wheel drive. In a test, an all-wheel-drive Sorento Hybrid accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 7.6 seconds, which is commendable within this vehicle class. The test also found the Sorento equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly, contributing to its overall performance. Lastly, the price comparison becomes a focal point, with the Kia Sorento Hybrid listed at $40,105, which is approximately $8,000 cheaper than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid's starting price of $48,315. The Sorento also includes superior standard features, such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen with integrated navigation, as opposed to the Highlander's 8-inch screen lacking navigation capabilities. The substantial price difference and more advanced technology offered in the Sorento make it a compelling choice for those seeking economic value and advanced features in the hybrid SUV category.