The market for new SUVs, especially those in the mid-size range, is more fully loaded with options than it has ever been before. This is because crossovers are quickly displacing mid- and full-size sedans as family favorites. They're bringing all the passenger and cargo space, safety features, technologies, and other amenities you love along with them, too, writ even larger. That's not to mention far more advanced. It can be a little daunting, as a result, to decide which might be right for you. However, here at Jenkins Kia of Gainesville, we've made figuring that out easy. Check out how one of the most popular mid-size crossovers out there, the new Kia Sorento, fares head-to-head in a matchup against Toyota Highlander. We think you'll see why, at the end of the day, that decision ought to be in our automaker's favor.
 |  |  |
Kia Sorento vs. Toyota Highlander
- For one, the new Sorento offers a choice of six trims. They range from base L and step-up LX to top-tier models like SX and SX Limited, exuding luxury and refinement. There are even V6 options available for the high-performance enthusiast, variants of the lineup's LX and EX trims. The new Highlander offers only five trim choices, from an LE and LE Plus duo at base to midrange XLE, a sporty SE, and a premium Limited model.
- Both Sorento and Highlander offer a comparable engine lineup. Sorento features a spirited 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter I4 in L and LX trims, ready to deliver 178 pound-feet of torque. Highlander incorporates a 185-horsepower, 2.7-liter putting out 184 pound-feet at base. Step up to Sorento LX V6 or a later trim, and a 290-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6 powerhouse revs under the hood, prepared to churn out 252 pound-feet of turning and pulling power. Highlander XLE stays competitive with a 295-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 capable of 263 pound-feet.
- Sorento bests Highlander, however, on fuel economy. Our automaker's base model can get up to 22 city MPG among Middleburg FL lights and 29 highway MPG down I-75 South to Ocala in select trims, by EPA estimates. Highlander gets only 20 MPG and 24 MPG respectively in its LE base, and even with a V6 and in front-wheel drive, it still only gets 21 MPG in a city like Lake City and 27 MPG on the highway.
- The towing capacity of a new Sorento weighs in around 2,000 pounds at base. That's enough to haul a light tent camper, dirt bike, or ATV along for a trip. Highlander can tow only up to 1,500 pounds right out the gate.
- With a huge 154.2-cubic-foot cabin, Sorento takes the lead as the roomier of the two SUV options. Highlander interior capacity comes in behind at 144.9 cubic feet.
- Sorento puts a 7.0-inch UVO play touchscreen infotainment system front and center in base trims for your entertainment and control convenience. It comes complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for integrating and controlling your smartphone from the dash to boot. The Highlander base offers a standard Entune system, but it's a smaller 6.1 inches and features neither Apple nor Android phone compatibility.
- Costing thousands less at entry level than a new Highlander, Sorento is the more affordable option for you and your family. Conversely, it makes all these advancements yours for less.
- Purchase or lease a new Kia Sorento here in Gainesville, and you'll find it even offers better warranty coverage. A new Sorento includes a 5-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and 10 years or 100,000 miles of limited powertrain coverage. Choose Highlander, and you'll have less for the long haul: it includes only 36 months or 36,000 miles basic and 60 months or 60,000 miles powertrain coverage.
Visit Jenkins Kia of Gainesville to Experience Kia Sorento Firsthand
Call our friendly sales department or take a ride out to see us here at 2810 North Main Street, and we'll schedule you a test drive you'll be sure to remember!
Make an Inquiry
* Indicates a required field
2025 Kia Sorento S
- MSRP*:$38,570
- Jenkins Savings:$1,196
- Sales Price*:$37,374
- Kia Offer:$500
- Jenkins Sale Price*:$36,874
- Combo APR Offer:$2,000
- Military Offer:$500
Engine: 2.5L I4 DGI DOHC 16V LEV3-SULEV30 191hp, Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic, Exterior Color: Ebony Black, Interior Color: Grey
View Details
2025 Kia Sorento EX
- MSRP*:$44,430
- Jenkins Savings:$1,827
- Sales Price*:$42,603
- Kia Offer:$1,000
- Jenkins Sale Price*:$41,603
- Combo APR Offer:$2,500
- Military Offer:$500
Engine: 2.5L I4 DGI Turbocharged DOHC 16V LEV3-SULEV30 281hp, Transmission: 8 Speed Dual Clutch, Exterior Color: Ebony Black, Interior Color: Black
View Details