2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

The Good

The 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid offers a compelling blend of advantages: exceptional fuel efficiency, a surprisingly refined and powerful hybrid powertrain, and a stylish, upscale design. Its comfortable, well-appointed interior appeals to those seeking a premium feel, while practical buyers appreciate the robust warranty, strong safety features, and overall excellent value proposition for a three-row SUV.

The Bad

Known weaknesses for the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid include a notably cramped third row best suited for children, and significantly limited cargo space when all three rows are in use. Some owners also report noticeable road noise at highway speeds, and availability can sometimes be challenging due to high demand for hybrid models.

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid: Quick Overview

Here is a summary of the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid's key specifications:

• Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery.
• Horsepower: Combined 227 horsepower.
• Torque: Combined 258 lb-ft.
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic.
• Drivetrain: Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) for the hybrid, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option. The AWD system includes a center-locking differential.
• Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
  
  • FWD: 39 MPG city / 35 MPG highway / 37 MPG combined.
  • AWD: 36 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 34 MPG combined.
• 0-60 MPH Acceleration: Approximately 7.5 seconds (estimated).
• Towing Capacity: 2,000 pounds (when properly equipped).
• Key Trim-Level Features:
  
  • EX (Base Hybrid Trim):
    
    • 17-inch alloy wheels.
    • LED headlights and taillights.
    • Roof rails.
    • Smart Key with Push Button Start and Remote Start.
    • 10.25-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™.
    • Wireless phone charger.
    • SynTex synthetic leather seating trim.
    • Heated front seats.
    • Second-row captain's chairs (6-passenger seating).
    • Power driver's seat.
    • Comprehensive suite of Kia Drive Wise Driver Assist Technology, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCW), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Safe Exit Assist (SEA), and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
  • SX Prestige (Top Hybrid Trim):
    
    • Builds upon EX features and adds:
    • 19-inch alloy wheels.
    • Panoramic sunroof.
    • Genuine leather seating trim.
    • Ventilated front seats.
    • Heated steering wheel.
    • Bose® Premium Audio System with 12 speakers.
    • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
    • Surround View Monitor (SVM).
    • Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM).
    • Parking Distance Warning – Reverse.
    • Power-folding outside mirrors.
    • Auto-dimming rearview mirror.

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Specifications

Vehicle History Report

What Problems Does the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Have?

As a relatively new iteration of the Sorento, the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid benefits from continuous refinements. However, like any vehicle, some frequently reported issues and potential long-term concerns are worth noting.

• Infotainment System Glitches: Some owners across various Kia models, including the Sorento Hybrid, have reported occasional freezing, slow response times, or intermittent connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. These are often addressed with software updates.
• Hybrid System Transitions: While generally smooth, a small number of owners have mentioned subtle hesitations or minor jerking during the transition between electric motor and gasoline engine power, particularly at lower speeds. This is usually within normal operating parameters for a hybrid system but can be perceptible.
• 12V Battery Drain: There have been sporadic reports across newer Kia models of the 12V battery draining unexpectedly. This can sometimes be linked to parasitic draws from certain electronic systems or issues with the smart key. Kia often provides software fixes or addresses these under warranty.
• Road Noise: While interior refinement is good, some drivers find the cabin can experience noticeable road and wind noise, particularly at highway speeds, which might detract slightly from an otherwise quiet ride in electric mode.

Recalls: For specific recalls affecting the 2023 Sorento Hybrid, it is always recommended to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website using the vehicle's VIN. As of its release, no widespread, critical recalls specific to the hybrid powertrain that significantly impact a large number of units have been broadly publicized, but minor safety or component-related recalls can occur for any new model year. Owners should stay informed about any official manufacturer notices.

Long-Term Reliability Concerns: General hybrid longevity concerns, primarily around the high-voltage battery, are largely mitigated by Kia's excellent 10-year/100,000-mile hybrid system warranty. Outside of this warranty, repairs to complex hybrid components could be costly. However, the conventional powertrain components are well-tested, and Kia's overall reliability has significantly improved over the past decade.

How long will the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid last?

With proper maintenance and care, the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid is expected to deliver excellent long-term service, typically lasting between 150,000 to 200,000 miles or 10-15 years. Many modern Kia vehicles surpass these figures. Key to achieving this longevity is adherence to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and specific checks for the hybrid system's cooling and battery health.

Long-term durability is generally strong for the Sorento Hybrid. The gasoline engine and transmission are well-proven, and the hybrid battery is backed by Kia's robust 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, mitigating major concerns about its most expensive component. Over time, typical wear items like suspension components, brake pads, and potentially infotainment screens (showing age or minor glitches) might require attention. However, overall build quality and corrosion resistance are considered good, suggesting it should hold up well with consistent ownership habits.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid is well-equipped with an impressive array of built-in technology, entertainment, and advanced safety features, enhancing both convenience and peace of mind.

• Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
  
  • Standard on both EX and SX Prestige trims is a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring integrated navigation, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ compatibility.
  • A wireless phone charger is standard, along with multiple USB ports for device connectivity.
  • The Smart Key with Push Button Start and Remote Start adds convenience.
  • The SX Prestige trim elevates the experience with a stunning 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a premium Bose® 12-speaker audio system.
• Driver-Assistance & Safety Features (Kia Drive Wise):
  
  • Standard Across Trims:
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection.
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA) for semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
  • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) for enhanced awareness.
  • Safe Exit Assist (SEA) helps prevent occupants from opening doors into oncoming traffic.
  • Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC).
  • Driver Attention Warning (DAW).
  • High Beam Assist (HBA).
  • SX Prestige Additions:
  • Surround View Monitor (SVM) provides a 360-degree bird's-eye view.
  • Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) displays a live feed of blind spots in the instrument cluster.
  • Parking Distance Warning – Reverse.
• Passive Safety: The Sorento Hybrid includes a comprehensive airbag system, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and traction control.
• Crash-Test Ratings: The 2023 KIA Sorento (which shares its platform and structure with the Hybrid model) received high safety marks:
  
  • The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Sorento a "Top Safety Pick" rating, with "Good" ratings in all crashworthiness tests and "Superior" for front crash prevention.
  • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2023 Sorento an overall 5-star safety rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side crash tests, and 4 stars for rollover.

What Colors Options are Available?

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid typically carried MSRPs ranging from approximately $37,000 for the EX FWD trim to around $45,000 for the top-tier SX Prestige AWD model. Current used market prices for 2023 models remain remarkably strong, often nearing or even slightly exceeding original MSRPs, largely due to high demand for fuel-efficient vehicles and the limited availability of new models.

Depreciation for the Sorento Hybrid is generally favorable, especially compared to some non-hybrid competitors. Hybrid vehicles tend to hold their value better, and the Sorento Hybrid is no exception, particularly in its initial years. Factors significantly affecting its resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, mileage, complete service history, and the remaining portion of Kia's excellent warranty. Higher trims like the SX Prestige, and models equipped with AWD, typically command a slightly higher resale value. Strong market demand for three-row, fuel-efficient SUVs further bolstered its retained value.

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Cost of Ownership

The 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid is generally an economical vehicle to own long-term, primarily due to its outstanding fuel efficiency. Fuel costs will be significantly lower than comparable gasoline-only three-row SUVs, a major advantage for practical buyers.

Insurance costs are typically mid-range for a mid-size SUV, potentially slightly higher than base gasoline models due to the complexity of hybrid components, but strong safety features help mitigate this. Routine maintenance costs are comparable to a conventional Sorento, with hybrid-specific checks usually integrated into standard service schedules. Major repairs to hybrid components outside of the generous 10-year/100,000-mile warranty could be expensive, but this warranty offers substantial peace of mind for the critical hybrid battery and powertrain components. Overall, the Sorento Hybrid presents an appealing balance of initial cost and ongoing ownership expenses.

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Fuel Efficiency

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Warranty

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Insurance

How Does the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid competes fiercely in the crowded three-row mid-size SUV segment, stacking up well against its primary rivals. Its chief competitors include the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and its platform mate, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.

• Performance: The Sorento Hybrid's 227-hp powertrain offers a strong blend of power and efficiency, generally feeling more spirited than the Highlander Hybrid's 243 hp, which can sometimes feel a bit uninspired despite higher numbers. The Sorento's traditional automatic transmission also offers a more familiar driving feel than Toyota's eCVT. The Santa Fe Hybrid delivers nearly identical performance due to shared components.
• Features: Kia often leads in offering a wealth of standard features and upscale technology for the price. The Sorento Hybrid frequently comes better equipped than a similarly priced Highlander Hybrid, providing larger infotainment screens, more advanced driver-assist systems, and a more premium interior aesthetic even in lower trims. The Santa Fe Hybrid is very similar in its feature set.
• Reliability: While Kia has significantly improved its reliability ratings, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid often holds an edge in perceived long-term dependability, benefiting from Toyota's legendary reputation for hybrid systems. However, Kia's comprehensive 10-year/100,000-mile warranty for its hybrid components substantially mitigates reliability concerns. The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid typically shares Kia's reliability profile.
• Price: The Sorento Hybrid typically offers a more compelling price-to-feature ratio. It often undercuts the Highlander Hybrid in price when similarly equipped, making it a stronger value proposition for many buyers.

Recommended Alternatives:

• Toyota Highlander Hybrid: A strong alternative if utmost long-term reliability and slightly better resale value are paramount. It may come at a higher price and with fewer standard features.
• Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: As a mechanical twin, it offers nearly the same package. The choice between the Sorento and Santa Fe often comes down to styling preference, interior design, and specific dealer incentives.
• Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid: For families where the Sorento's third row is too cramped, the larger Grand Highlander offers significantly more space, though at a higher price point.

Final Verdict: Is the 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid is an excellent choice and a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, making it genuinely worth buying for the right individual or family. It's ideally suited for value-conscious buyers and small to medium-sized families who need the flexibility of an occasional third row and prioritize outstanding fuel economy without sacrificing style or modern tech.

It excels for daily commuting and longer trips where its efficiency and comfortable, well-appointed cabin shine. Opting for it new offers the full benefit of Kia's robust warranties and the latest features. While used models may not offer significant savings yet due to high demand, they will retain strong value. The EX trim provides an excellent balance of features and cost, while the SX Prestige elevates the experience with luxurious appointments. However, it's important to acknowledge its cramped third row is best for children or short trips, and cargo space is limited with all seats in use. If these limitations align with your needs, the Sorento Hybrid is a smart, stylish, and efficient family hauler.

2023 KIA Sorento Hybrid Owner Reviews

Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.