2022 Kia Sorento vs 2022 Toyota Highlander

2022 Kia Sorento
2022 Kia Sorento
$29,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Toyota Highlander
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia Sorento
$29,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2022 Kia Sorento is 8.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Highlander scores 8.2 out of 10. Given these evaluations, the Sorento edges out slightly over the Highlander, mostly due to its superior driving dynamics and richer array of safety features, making it the recommended choice for consumers looking for a blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology.

Overview

MSRP

$29,590

MSRP

$35,855

Average price

$29,818

Average price

$36,314

Listings

1067

Listings

1609
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.7 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Fun to drive
  • Great warranty
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Cramped third row
  • Poor voice recognition system
Pros
  • Great ride quality
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Cramped third row

2022 Kia Sorento Reviews Summary

Kia redesigned the popular Sorento last model year and for 2022 the midsize, three-row crossover SUV gets a few changes.

For starters, the appealing X-Line package is now available with S and EX trim in addition to the SX Prestige. All 2022 Kia Sorento models except for the base LX trim now have a standard 10.25-inch infotainment system with navigation and UVO connected services. Additionally, the top-of-the-line SX Prestige adds a more comfortable driver’s seat and heated second-row captain’s chairs as standard equipment.

The big news, however, pertains to a new all-wheel-drive option for the efficient Sorento Hybrid and the debut of the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid, which can travel 32 miles on electricity before switching to gas-electric hybrid propulsion and returning 34 mpg in combined driving.

2022 Toyota Highlander Reviews Summary

If you have a family and need a spacious, three-row vehicle to haul around the kids and all their gear, the choices can seem overwhelming. This includes SUVs and minivans. There are also a lot of gimmicks, like built-in vacuums and intercom systems—as if yelling back to the third row isn’t the least bit satisfying. The 2022 Toyota Highlander might be guilty of offering some of these gimmicks, but where it really shines is by covering the basics. This three-row midsize SUV offers tons of versatility, a stout V6 engine, and it comes standard with safety features buyers are looking for.

There is a wide range of trims, features, and prices that make up the Highlander lineup. Depending on your needs and budget, there might be an ideal setup for your family. Read on to learn more about the Highlander and where it stacks up in an all-important family-hauling vehicle segment.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.5L 191 hp I4

Engine

3.5L 295 hp V6

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

8

Horsepower

191 hp @ 6100 rpm

Horsepower

295 hp @ 6600 rpm

MPG City

24

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

29

MPG Highway

28
2022 Kia Sorento
2022 Kia Sorento
$29,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Highlander
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Kia Sorento
$29,590MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2022 Kia Sorento is 8.7 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Highlander scores 8.2 out of 10. Given these evaluations, the Sorento edges out slightly over the Highlander, mostly due to its superior driving dynamics and richer array of safety features, making it the recommended choice for consumers looking for a blend of style, performance, and cutting-edge technology.

Overview
MSRP
$29,590
$35,855
Average price
$29,818
$36,314
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.8
4.6
Expert reviews

8.7 out of 10

Read full review

8.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Fun to drive
  • Great warranty
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Cramped third row
  • Poor voice recognition system
Pros
  • Great ride quality
  • Easy-to-use technology
  • Standard advanced safety features
Cons
  • Cramped third row
Summary

Kia redesigned the popular Sorento last model year and for 2022 the midsize, three-row crossover SUV gets a few changes.

For starters, the appealing X-Line package is now available with S and EX trim in addition to the SX Prestige. All 2022 Kia Sorento models except for the base LX trim now have a standard 10.25-inch infotainment system with navigation and UVO connected services. Additionally, the top-of-the-line SX Prestige adds a more comfortable driver’s seat and heated second-row captain’s chairs as standard equipment.

The big news, however, pertains to a new all-wheel-drive option for the efficient Sorento Hybrid and the debut of the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid, which can travel 32 miles on electricity before switching to gas-electric hybrid propulsion and returning 34 mpg in combined driving.

If you have a family and need a spacious, three-row vehicle to haul around the kids and all their gear, the choices can seem overwhelming. This includes SUVs and minivans. There are also a lot of gimmicks, like built-in vacuums and intercom systems—as if yelling back to the third row isn’t the least bit satisfying. The 2022 Toyota Highlander might be guilty of offering some of these gimmicks, but where it really shines is by covering the basics. This three-row midsize SUV offers tons of versatility, a stout V6 engine, and it comes standard with safety features buyers are looking for.

There is a wide range of trims, features, and prices that make up the Highlander lineup. Depending on your needs and budget, there might be an ideal setup for your family. Read on to learn more about the Highlander and where it stacks up in an all-important family-hauling vehicle segment.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
2.5L 191 hp I4
3.5L 295 hp V6
Drive Train
FWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
8
Horsepower
191 hp @ 6100 rpm
295 hp @ 6600 rpm
MPG City
24
20
MPG Highway
29
28
Look and feel
2022 Kia Sorento
10/10
2022 Toyota Highlander
8/10
The 2022 Kia Sorento, especially in the X-Line trim, emphasized a bold and somewhat rugged aesthetic that balanced style with functional elements like matte-finish wheels and a lifted suspension. The inclusion of black lower body cladding and robust roof rails not only enhanced its appearance but also suggested a readiness for adventurous pursuits, though it preserved a clean and modern look synonymous with urban appeal. Interior-wise, from leather upholstery to well-crafted dashboard design, the Sorento projected a premium environment that radiated thoughtful layout and high-quality construction without compromising on utility and space. Conversely, the 2022 Toyota Highlander showcased a more contemporary design with its aggressive front-end and aerodynamically friendly silhouette that cleverly disguised its voluminous interior. It maintained an edge with flared fenders and a distinctive kick-up in the third-row windows. The interior, particularly in the XSE trim, was a striking divergence from conventional expectations—bold red leather juxtaposed with a reserved navy blue exterior hinted at a luxury-sport blend. The overall design of the Highlander managed to project both size and sleekness, making it appear less bulky than one might expect for such a spacious vehicle.
Performance
2022 Kia Sorento
8/10
2022 Toyota Highlander
7/10
Equipped with a standard 191-horsepower, 2.5-liter engine, the Sorento seemed somewhat underwhelming compared to its alternatives, which included a more robust turbocharged option producing 281 horsepower, proving especially satisfying in comparison to the larger Kia Telluride's V6 on the torque front. The Sorento’s elevated ground clearance and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive augmented its agility, making it sportier in drive than expected, despite its raised suspension design mainly adding aesthetic value rather than enhanced rugged capabilities. On the other hand, the Highlander’s 3.5-liter V6, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, harmonized power and performance, making it especially capable during highway driving and overtaking maneuvers. Although the Highlander had subtle sporty aspirations, it did not forsake comfort, offering well-weighted and composed handling that reassured across different driving scenarios.
Form and function
2022 Kia Sorento
9/10
2022 Toyota Highlander
9/10
The Sorento’s interior was plush and luxurious, especially in the SX Prestige trim, where both front and second-row passengers enjoyed ample amenities like heated seats and considerable power adjustments. The Sorento, however, fell short in third-row comfort, suggesting the space was more suitable for children or very short journeys. With 75.5 cubic feet available when both rear rows were folded, its cargo capacity was less than the Highlander but still respectable. The Highlander excelled in practical utility, providing up to 84.3 cubic feet of storage with seats down and maintaining a practical layout that supported passenger comfort even in the third row, albeit minimal compared to the second-row captain’s chairs. The clever arrangement of storage compartments and the ease of altering seat configurations highlighted Toyota’s attention to daily utility and user-friendliness.
Technology
2022 Kia Sorento
6/10
2022 Toyota Highlander
8/10
For technology, the Sorento boasted a 10.25-inch touchscreen with a comprehensive suite including navigation and satellite radio in all but its base variant, which stuck with an 8-inch display. Despite a sound system limited to higher trims, advanced connectivity, and driver-assistance features, the system suggested a strong technological proposition but lacked wireless capabilities which some users might find limiting. The Highlander’s infotainment system, though less expansive at 8 inches in standard form, supported essential applications like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto efficiently and was complemented by user-friendly physical controls. The option for a larger 12.3-inch display and enhanced audio options in higher trims, combined with the inclusion of standardized connectivity features across the range, offered a balanced tech profile that catered effectively to family and tech-savvy drivers alike.
Safety
2022 Kia Sorento
9/10
2022 Toyota Highlander
8/10
Kia’s Sorento was commendably equipped with Drive Wise, offering a robust array of safety features that scaled with higher trims, topping out with advanced assists like Junction Assist and a Blind View Monitor. Despite a somewhat mixed bag in crash-test ratings, its overall safety proposition was strengthened by innovative monitoring systems and semi-autonomous capabilities. Toyota’s Safety Sense in the Highlander presented a comprehensive safety suite standard across the lineup. Enhanced safety options available in upper trims, including the surround-view monitor and adaptive headlights, provided added reassurance. The integration of active lane management systems, although aggressive, underlined Toyota’s commitment to safety across driving conditions.
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.

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