Kia Niro Hybrid Plug-In vs Kia Sorento Hybrid Plug-In

The Kia Niro gets redesigned for 2023 model year, but keeps its trifecta of hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and all-electric powertrains. With the demise of its Hyundai Ioniq (not to be confused with the Ioniq 5) cousin, the Niro is now the only vehicle sold in the United States with those three powertrain options, ranging from a traditional hybrid to a fully electric vehicle.

The second-generation 2023 Kia Niro PHEV plug-in hybrid gets the same updates as its Kia Niro Hybrid and Niro EV siblings (which we’ll cover in separate reviews), including dramatic new styling and a revamped interior, plus more power and electric range than the previous-generation Niro PHEV, which dated back to the 2018 model year.

The plug-in hybrid market has shifted a bit since that first-generation Niro PHEV was launched. That version was considered significant because it wasn’t derived from a non-electrified model, but that no longer seems to be a priority for automakers or customers. Aside from the Toyota Prius Prime, most mainstream plug-in hybrids are now variants of existing crossovers, such as the Ford Escape PHEV, Hyundai Tucson Plug-In Hybrid, Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid, and Toyota RAV4 Prime—as well as Kia’s own Sportage PHEV.

So the question for the 2023 Niro PHEV is, with plug-in hybrid versions of familiar crossover models now available, does a dedicated design still matter?

The Sorento is one of the longest-running nameplates in Kia’s lineup, first appearing as a 2002 model, and it has evolved over subsequent generations into Kia’s competitor to three-row SUVs like the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander. With the larger Kia Telluride now in the lineup, the Sorento distinguishes itself in part by offering more-efficient powertrain options. The current fourth-generation Sorento launched for the 2021 model year with gasoline and hybrid powertrains, with the plug-in hybrid joining the lineup for 2022.

As a three-row midsize plug-in hybrid crossover, the Sorento PHEV doesn’t have many direct competitors. It shares a platform with the Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-In Hybrid, but the Hyundai doesn’t have third-row seating. Nor does the more rugged Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. The Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid does have a third row, but it's squeezed into a smaller package. Finally, the Mazda CX-90 PHEV (which launched as a 2024 model) aims for a more premium feel.

The Sorento is due for a refresh for the 2024 model year, so changes for 2023 are minimal. Kia has eliminated the base SX trim level, leaving only the top SX-Prestige grade.