2019 Honda Pilot vs 2019 Kia Sorento

The 2019 Kia Sorento was praised for its attractive styling, which included updated front and rear bumpers, a new grille, and redesigned headlights and taillights. These changes were well-received, enhancing the SUV's overall appeal. The SX Limited trim, which was the top-tier option, featured premium Nappa leather upholstery and a pleasing fabric headliner, though some interior plastic surfaces were criticized for their quality, especially given the vehicle's price point. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sorento's interior updates, such as a new steering wheel and shift knob, contributed to a refined driving experience.

In contrast, the 2019 Honda Pilot's visual updates were subtle but noticeable to keen observers. The SUV featured more futuristic headlights and a cleaner front valence design, with a grille reminiscent of the Honda CR-V. Inside, the Pilot received an updated steering wheel and a new infotainment system, along with slight changes to the climate-control vents. The range-topping Elite trim offered luxurious features like a panoramic moonroof and heated second-row captain’s chairs, making it a comfortable choice for families. Overall, the Pilot's design changes were understated but effective in maintaining its appeal.

The 2019 Kia Sorento offered a choice between a standard 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and a more powerful 290-horsepower, 3.3-liter V6 engine. The V6, paired with a new 8-speed automatic transmission, provided smooth power delivery and quick acceleration. Drivers could select from Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with the latter adapting to driving styles. The optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system included Torque Vectoring Cornering Control for improved handling. During testing, the Sorento SX Limited returned 20.7 mpg, nearly matching its EPA rating. The SUV's handling was surprisingly athletic, with a solid and quiet ride on the highway.

The 2019 Honda Pilot came standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, equipped with cylinder deactivation and auto stop/start, delivered solid acceleration. Most trims featured a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the Touring and Elite trims received a 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The Pilot's driving experience was somewhat disconnected, with vague gas and brake pedal feel, but it offered a soft ride over rough roads. The AWD system, standard on the Elite trim, provided various drive modes for different terrains. Fuel economy varied by trim, with the FWD Touring being the most efficient at 23 mpg combined.

The 2019 Kia Sorento was a 3-row, 7-passenger SUV, though its third-row seating was best suited for emergency use due to limited accessibility and comfort. As a 5-passenger SUV, it offered 38 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded, expanding to 73 cubic feet with the second row down. The Sorento's interior featured premium options like Nappa leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof, but rear-seat comfort was less impressive due to tight legroom and flat cushions.

The 2019 Honda Pilot excelled in providing adult-friendly third-row seating, making it a standout in the midsize 3-row SUV segment. It offered ample storage space, with 16.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 83.9 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Pilot's interior was designed with family convenience in mind, featuring 15 cupholders and double-level in-door storage spaces. Its cargo capacity was competitive, though slightly less than top performers like the Volkswagen Atlas and Chevrolet Traverse.

The 2019 Kia Sorento's infotainment options varied by trim, with the base L and LX featuring a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX trim added UVO eServices with a 5-year service plan, while the SX and SX Limited offered an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. A 360-degree camera system was available on higher trims, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces.

The 2019 Honda Pilot introduced a new infotainment system with a much-appreciated Volume knob, improving user experience. Trims above the base LX featured a touchscreen with crisp graphics and easy navigation. The Touring and Elite trims included a rear entertainment system with a flip-down screen and mobile hotspot capability. Parent-friendly features like the CabinTalk PA system allowed drivers to communicate with rear passengers through the entertainment system.

The 2019 Kia Sorento was equipped with a range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on all trims except the base L. The EX trim and above offered adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Sorento received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, ensuring peace of mind for families.

The 2019 Honda Pilot came standard with the Honda Sensing suite, which included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. These features were available on all trims, including the base LX. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were offered on higher trims, providing comprehensive safety coverage for drivers.