2024 Kia Sorento vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 showcased a demeanor of understated luxury and practicality. Sold in three model series—B5, B6, and Recharge T8—all versions came with standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The B5 model featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for added performance. The Recharge T8 distinguished itself as a plug-in hybrid offering peak performance, energy efficiency, and an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. Available in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trims, prices ranged from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. Our test model, a Recharge T8 in the top-tier Ultimate trim, boasted massaging front seats, a premium headliner, active air suspension, a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system, and a trailer hitch, summing up to an MSRP of $89,145.

Volvo demonstrated impeccable design in color and material selection. The exterior palette leaned towards subdued, earthy tones, aligning with the SUV's luxurious yet practical ethos. Wheel designs varied up to 21 inches, and with the Bright theme, most versions stood out against the prevalent blacked-out trends. Inside, despite the dated design, the Ultimate trim was filled with rich materials. Options included wool-blend upholstery or ventilated Nappa leather in various colors, complemented by an Orrefors crystal shift knob and natural wood trim. Noteworthy was Volvo's flexibility in allowing buyers to mix and match paints, wheels, and upholstery to cater to individual tastes.

For the 2024 Kia Sorento, this model marked the first significant visual refresh since its 2021 redesign. Drawing styling cues from the popular Telluride and EV9, the Sorento's new front grill and vertically-stacked LED projectors enhanced its presence. Rear updates included subtle tweaks to the bumper and new LED taillights for higher trims. Trims such as LX, S, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige were maintained, with the rugged X-Line package now exclusive to EX trims and above. A new X-Pro trim mirrored the X-Line's aesthetic but featured smaller wheels and all-terrain tires, enhancing its outdoor appeal.

The redesigned Sorento interior sported a clean horizontal dashboard inspired by the EV9, with SX and SX-Prestige models featuring twin 12.3-inch digital displays for the infotainment and gauge cluster. Updated materials, an improvement over previous years, included faux open-pore wood grain on the dashboards and quality stitching on leather-wrapped optional steering wheels and seats. New green and brown interior color options added character, giving the Sorento an edge over rivals like the Chevrolet Blazer and Honda Passport.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Together, they produced 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, channeled to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The system promised a 32-mile electric-only range, achieving an average hybrid fuel economy of 27 mpg. In Power mode, the XC90 reached 60 mph in an estimated five seconds.

Recharging options included a standard household outlet or a faster 240-volt, 16-amp outlet, cutting recharge time by more than half. Various modes—Pure, Power, Hybrid, Constant AWD, and Off-Road—adapted the vehicle to different driving conditions. However, during a test in hot Southern California, the vehicle's 32-mile electric range fell short at 28 miles, and its combined driving fuel economy reached 24.5 mpg, shy of the EPA's predicted 27 mpg.

Driving the XC90 Recharge T8 revealed potent acceleration with seamless power delivery from the electric motor and engine combo. However, its handling and ride quality highlighted its luxury over performance ethos. Grip levels were impressive, but the vehicle felt firm and less polished over bumpy surfaces, and handling dynamics were only satisfying for a luxury SUV, not a sport-oriented one.

The 2024 Kia Sorento, retaining its mechanical foundations, came with two engine options. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder produced 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. Weighing in at 3,814 pounds, the base engine's performance felt inadequate, with nearly 10 seconds to reach 60 mph. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine on EX and higher trims was a better option, delivering 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The dual-clutch eight-speed automatic provided a more dynamic driving experience, achieving a more respectable 0-to-60 mph time in the mid-seven-second range.

Drive options included standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional AWD, which added more ground clearance and the X-Line package on higher trims. The Sorento's performance on-road was confident, with well-weighted steering and robust braking. The new X-Pro trim enhanced off-road abilities with 17-inch rims and all-terrain tires, proving capable in rugged conditions. Fuel economy remained average, with non-turbo models achieving 25-26 mpg combined and turbo models around 23 mpg combined.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in its base Core trim, was luxuriously equipped with features like power-adjustable heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. Upgraded trims offered additional comforts such as ventilated front seats, rear seat heating, and integrated booster child seats. The panoramic glass roof added to the cabin's airy feel, but a learning curve was needed for its power seat adjustments.

The seating arrangement catered to seven people, with the option for second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row seat proved accommodating enough for adults for short periods. However, accessing the third row was challenging. Cargo capacity also balanced luxury with practicality, offering up to 65.5 cubic feet with the third row folded down and 85.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

The 2024 Kia Sorento maintained its comfort, with 41.4 inches of front legroom and 41.7 for the second row, comfortably surpassing some larger alternatives. The third row, with 29.6 inches of legroom, matched the segment standard. While tight for adults, it was adequate for children, making the Sorento a versatile family vehicle. The captain’s chairs option enhanced usability, allowing easier third-row access.

Cargo capacity varied, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to up to 72.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. This versatility outshoned the Chevrolet Blazer and approached Honda Passport territory. Higher trims featured additional comforts like heated and ventilated front seats and noise-insulating glass.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-In technology. This included Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant for voice recognition, though a subscription was required after four years. Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, and premium sound options like the Bowers & Wilkins 19-speaker system enhanced the technological experience. The inclusion of a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons amidst a minimalist interior was a practical touch.

The 2024 Kia Sorento took a leap in technology with its twin 12.3-inch digital displays in higher trims. The new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (CCnC) infotainment software offered a user-friendly layout, prioritizing commonly used functions. Most trims featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with multiple USB-C outlets. The SX-Prestige model boasted features like Digital Key 2.0, facilitating keyless vehicle access via smartphones or smart cards. The Bose 12-speaker sound system provided excellent audio quality across higher trims.

Volvo's reputation for safety was reflected in the XC90’s crash-test performance. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it five stars in most assessments and four stars in rollover resistance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick+ in 2023. However, the XC90’s advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) lagged behind peers, lacking innovative features and hands-free driving capabilities. The Pilot Assist system offered mixed results, struggling with specific road scenarios and issuing inaccurate lane-departure warnings.

Kia’s Sorento equipped its Drivewise suite with a comprehensive array of driver-assistance features as standard. These included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Optional features like Highway Driving Assist 2 on the SX-Prestige enhanced semi-autonomous capabilities. The Sorento had not yet been fully evaluated by the IIHS or NHTSA for 2024, but previous models received commendable ratings.