The 2021 Kia Sorento has been completely transformed, inside and out. No longer a perfectly acceptable 3-row crossover vehicle leaning more toward minivan, it is now a hunky, muscular SUV with major changes throughout. If you haven’t taken a look at this model lately, now is the time to fix that. 
1. Big and Bold
The soft curves are gone, replaced with a more assertively chiseled square profile. It’s a little longer, a little wider, and rides on a much lighter brand new platform. The 2021 Sorento has a new grille with LED lights standard on either side.
2. Hybrid and Off-Road Models
The new Sorento hybrids are available in trim levels S and EX, with features very much like the ones in comparable gas-only models. The front-wheel-drive model will combine an electric motor with a 227 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. The plug-in, all-wheel-drive version has 261 horsepower output and a 13.8 kWh battery pack with an electric range of about 30 miles.
Adding the X-Line trim to an all-wheel-drive SX-Prestige will add an extra inch to ride height and a roof rack, as well as rugged bumpers and wheels.
3. Upscale Interior
While standard seating is for 7, captain’s chairs are available for the first time. On all models above the base LX, there is dual-zone auto temp control and panoramic sunroofs are either standard or available as options. Heated and ventilated seats are also available as options. Mid-range trims have synthetic leather seats, while top trims offer perforated leather with embossed side bolsters.
4. Advanced Safety Technology
The 2021 Sorento comes standard with many more safety features, such as:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
- Rear occupant alert
- Driver attention monitoring
- Lane-following assist
Some of the optional features available are:
- Blindspot collision avoidance assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Safe exit assist
- Rear cross-traffic alert
5. Updated Connectivity and Infotainment
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be supported in all 2021 Sorentos. 8-inch touchscreens are standard in the lower trim levels, a 10.25-inch touchscreen capable of split-screens is standard in higher trims. The bigger screen package comes with Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices simultaneously, as well as up to 8 USB ports throughout the cabin. While an audio system with 6 speakers is standard, a Bose audio system with 12 speakers is available as an option.
6. Turbo-Charged Powertrains
If you’re looking for the most powerful powertrain option, that will be the turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder with 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Next up is the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four engine with 191 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque.
7. UVO Link Telematics System
Not only can owners send commands to their Sorento using Amazon Alexa devices, but the system includes features such as:
- Remote unlock
- Connected weather
- 911 Connect
- Connected routing
The 2021 model is a whole new Kia Sorento, and it has to be seen to be believed. Come to Crain Kia for a test drive and you can experience all the incredible new features personally.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.