2021 Sorento vs. 2021 Highlander in Corpus Christi, TX

The 2021 Sorento Vs. The 2021 Highlander

The 2021 Kia Sorento has been completely redesigned for this model year, which means that its more competitive than ever against popular rivals like the 2021 Toyota Highlander. While both have similar offerings, there are quite a few reasons why the Sorento should be at the top of your list. Let’s compare the performances, interiors, and safety features of the 2021 Sorento and the 2021 Highlander. 

Performance Comparison

The 2021 Kia Sorento is the perfect example of when the numbers on paper don’t do the actual performance of the car justice. This peppy midsize SUV runs on an enthusiastic 2.5-liter I4 that makes 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, though all-wheel drive is available. Critics note that the Sorento is a joy to drive, delivering a solid athleticism at every turn. 

In comparison, the 2021 Highlander is an example of how high numbers on paper don’t always lend to an engaging performance on the road. While the Highlander is powered by a V6 that makes 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, it’s often cited as having a dull performance in comparison to its competitors.

Further, the 2021 Kia Sorento offers better fuel efficiency and a larger gas tank than the Highlander so that you can maximize every fill up.  

Interior and Value Comparison

If you’re looking for a handsome, spacious midsize SUV, direct your attention to the 2021 Kia Sorento. The Sorento offers more headspace in all rows and more legroom in all rows, meaning that even your third-row passengers will be able to get comfortable. 

Every trim level of the Kia Sorento is well-designed with high-quality materials and an upscale look that includes an available 10.25-inch touchscreen, an available 12-speaker Bose® audio system, and an available rear-seat entertainment system. Both SUVs come standard with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto in an 8-inch touchscreen. Overall, the interior of the Highlander is much less impressive as it lacks the modern, premium feel of the Sorento. 

KIA Sorento Interior

KIA Sorento Center ConsoleKIA Sorento Steering WheelKIA Sorento Trunk space

Toyota Highlander Interior

Toyota Highlander Center ConsoleToyota Highlander Steering WheelToyota Highlander Trunk space

Driver Assistance Features Comparison

Driver assistance features become more common and more advanced with each passing model year. In fact, they are standard on many 2021 models like the Sorento and the Highlander. The 2021 Kia Sorento and 2021 Highlander both come with key driver assistance features like traffic sign recognition, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and more. However, only the Sorento offers a driver drowsiness monitor that helps keep you alert on the road. 

Find a 2021 Kia Sorento in Corpus Christi, TX

The redesigned 2021 Kia Sorento goes above and beyond “well-rounded” – it exemplifies everything the midsize SUV class should be with generous space, glimmering technology, and advanced safety features. Want to learn more about the redesigned Sorento? Check out more of our 2021 Sorento research

 and start shopping from our current Sorento inventory at Mike Shaw Kia in Corpus Christi. 

Mike Shaw Kia 27.697490, -97.347780.