2026 Kia Sorento in a Nutshell
The Kia Sorento started out as a truck-based SUV, but quickly shed its frame to become a crossover. Since the second generation, it’s been the mechanical twin of the Hyundai Santa Fe, serving as its more conservatively styled counterpart of sorts.
We’re now in the fourth-generation model, and that one made its world premiere in early 2020. It was then facelifted in 2023 for the 2024 model year and has since received a series of rolling updates. As for the 2026 model, it carries over mostly unchanged, at least for the pure ICE versions.
Eight trims are available to choose from in the 2026 Sorento. There are two engine options, as well as two drivetrain choices. Prices range from $32,190 to $47,590.
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2026 Kia Sorento Lease Deals for December
It’s the base LX and lower-middle S trims that have special lease offers this month. It’s worth pointing out that the S can be leased in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive forms. There are also 24-month and 36-month terms, giving any potential punters more flexible options.
For the 2026 LX, it’s $309 for 24 months with $3,969 due at signing or $329 for 36 months with $3,999 due at signing. The S models also require $3,969 or $3,999 deposits as well. The S FWD can be leased for $349 for 24 months or $369 for 36 months. Going for all-wheel drive means $369 for 24 months or $389 for 36 months. Note that it’s $0.20 per mile over 10,000 miles per year, and offer is valid until January 2, 2026.
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2026 Kia Sorento Highlights
Here’s the hybrid, you ask? Well, that’s for another time, and our focus here is the pure ICE models. The LX is the least expensive of the bunch, but it already gets advanced driver assists, wireless phone connectivity, and satellite radio. The S gets larger 18-inch alloys, roof rails, heated front seats with power adjustment for the driver’s side, wireless charging, and a barrage of USB ports, to name a few.
Go for the EX and those wheels are upsized to 20 inches, a larger touchscreen display, plus highway driving assist. As for the SX, it gets two 12-inch screens on the dash, a panoramic sunroof, a Bose sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, a surround-view monitor, and more.
Then there’s the X-Line models for the EX, SX, and SX Prestige that add more rugged styling and more advanced driver assists, while the X-Pro sits at the top of the range. LX and S models are powered by a 2.5-liter engine with 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, and all trims from the EX and up get a turbocharged version of the same engine that doles out 281 hp and 311 hp.
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Final Thoughts
One can say that the Telluride overshadows the Sorento. That said, it still has several strong points, chief among them being the greater variety of trims, plus several powertrain options to satisfy most. Size isn’t everything, they say, and the Sorento proves that with a smart package. It also helps that it’s one of the least expensive options in its class, and it’s far from being nasty, too.
Car buyers agree, too, and Sorento sales have been reaching new heights. Funnily enough, it’s been selling so well that Kia has had to delay the launch of the all-new model. Now that’s a problem some carmakers would like to have.
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*Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle.
About the author
Anton Andres
News Editor