Kia Sorento vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2025 Kia Sorento offered a choice between two engines. The base LX and S trims were equipped with a 191-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering up to 26 mpg in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, standard in higher trims, produced 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a more satisfying driving experience, with an EPA rating of 23 mpg in combined driving. During testing, the Sorento X-Pro SX Prestige achieved slightly better fuel efficiency at 23.4 mpg. The turbo engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which could feel different to those unfamiliar with DCTs. The Sorento X-Pro, equipped with 17-inch wheels and BF Goodrich Trail Terrain tires, offered excellent ride quality and reduced noise. Its all-wheel-drive system featured torque vectoring and a locking center differential, enhancing traction and nimbleness. While the Sorento excelled in daily driving, the DCT's eagerness to upshift for fuel economy could be resolved by switching to Sport mode. Overall, the Sorento's size, driving dynamics, and visibility made it a pleasure to drive in various settings.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower, and a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. This combination increased the estimated electric range to 52 miles in the SE and XSE models. With a total power output of 324 horsepower, the RAV4 PHEV was the most powerful RAV4 to date. All-wheel drive was standard, with a front motor rated at 203 horsepower and 201 lb-ft of torque. In EV mode, the RAV4 PHEV excelled in quiet cruising but was not ideal for quick acceleration. In Auto mode, the vehicle delivered impressive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in the low five seconds. The RAV4 PHEV offered multiple driving modes, including Hybrid and Charge, allowing for efficient battery management. The transition of power was seamless, and paddle shifters allowed for manual control. The RAV4 PHEV maintained a spirited ride without sacrificing comfort, thanks to a strengthened chassis and improved suspension. Despite its weight, the RAV4 PHEV handled well, with the GR Sport trim offering enhanced handling and reduced body roll. Overall, the RAV4 PHEV provided a balanced driving experience with a focus on efficiency and performance.

The 2025 Kia Sorento appealed to families with its spacious interior. The first two rows of seats offered ample room, and the third-row seat could accommodate adults for shorter trips if the second-row passengers adjusted their seats. The Sorento X-Pro SX Prestige featured heated and ventilated front seats with power adjustments, providing comfort during long drives. The second-row passengers enjoyed heated seats, sunshades, USB ports, and air conditioning vents. While the Sorento offered generous storage space, the cargo area was limited to 12.6 cubic feet with the third-row seat in use. Folding the third row expanded the cargo space to 38.5 cubic feet, with a maximum capacity of 75.5 cubic feet. These figures compared favorably with compact crossovers, offering more power and a third-row seat.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained its dimensions from the previous generation, optimizing interior space with clever storage features. The base SE trim included a power driver's seat, heated front seats, and multiple USB ports. The top XSE grade extended power adjustments to the passenger seat. The RAV4 PHEV's interior featured synthetic leather upholstery, with ventilated seats available on higher trims. Despite its compact footprint, the RAV4 PHEV offered practical storage solutions, including a dashboard shelf, center console storage, and deep door pockets. The passenger space accommodated four passengers comfortably, with 37.8 inches of rear legroom. The cargo area provided 33.6 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The RAV4 PHEV's interior design prioritized functionality and comfort, making it a versatile choice for various needs.

The 2025 Kia Sorento featured a 24-inch panoramic display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While Kia Connect required a subscription for voice assistant features, the Sorento offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system included a touch-sensing strip for dual-function controls, which could be frustrating to use. Digital Key technology allowed smartphones to function as key fobs, and a digital rearview mirror provided a camera-based view. The Sorento's surround-view camera system made parking easier and offered valuable information about the vehicle's surroundings.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen available on top trims. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access to settings. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and voice assistant capabilities. The RAV4 PHEV included a built-in dash cam for recording and saving clips from exterior cameras. The infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2025 Kia Sorento came equipped with a range of standard safety features, with more advanced technology available on higher trims. The SX and SX Prestige trims included active collision avoidance features, evasive steering assist, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, although it required regular driver input. The Sorento earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2024.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. The system included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitors, and a safe-exit alert. The RAV4 PHEV's safety enhancements aimed to improve responsiveness and detection, contributing to its strong safety record. While crash-testing results for the 2026 model were pending, the 2025 RAV4 received a five-star rating from the NHTSA.