2026 Kia Sorento at Kia of Riverchase

The 2026 Kia Sorento is a midsize three-row SUV seating up to seven, offered as a gas model, a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. It sits between the Sportage and the Telluride in size, tows up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped with the turbo engine, and is in stock now at Greenway Kia of Riverchase in Pelham, AL.

What's new for the 2026 Kia Sorento?

Two changes stand out this year: Terrain Mode is now standard on all-wheel-drive models, and the X-Line and X-Pro versions pick up refreshed styling.

Terrain Mode lets you dial in Snow, Mud or Sand settings that adjust how power reaches the wheels. In central Alabama the snow setting is a curiosity, but the mud and sand modes matter on a wet clay boat ramp or a rutted campground road after a storm.

On the styling side, X-Line and X-Pro models gain a gloss black front air intake, an updated grille surround and new lower front and rear trim accents. Inside, the steering wheel design is updated and the interior color palette has been revised.

Which 2026 Sorento powertrain should you choose?

Choose the gas model if you tow or want the lowest entry price, the hybrid if you want better fuel economy without changing your habits, and the plug-in hybrid if you can charge at home and your daily drive is short.

Shop them side by side: 2026 Sorento inventory, Sorento Hybrid inventory, and our full hybrid and electric inventory for the plug-in models.

How much power does the Sorento have, and how much can it tow?

The available 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. Properly equipped, that combination tows up to 4,500 pounds.

That covers a bass boat, a pair of jet skis, a utility trailer or a lightweight camper — the kind of towing families around Shelby County actually do. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter on lower trims is the commuter engine: quieter, less expensive, and not the one to pick if a trailer is in your plans.

How many people does the 2026 Sorento seat?

Up to seven with a second-row bench, or six with available second-row captain's chairs, which open a walk-through aisle to the third row.

The second row slides and the third row folds flat, so the Sorento shifts between passenger duty and cargo duty without much ceremony. With both rear rows down, cargo space reaches about 75.5 cubic feet.

The third row is genuinely usable for kids and fine for adults on shorter trips, but it is a midsize SUV third row. If you need adults back there routinely, step up to the Kia Telluride.

What technology comes on the 2026 Sorento?

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are the baseline, with dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays available as you move up the lineup.

Higher trims add navigation, Kia Digital Key, a Bose premium audio system, wireless phone charging, a digital rearview mirror and USB-C ports across all three rows. Over-the-air software updates keep the infotainment current between visits.

What safety features does the Sorento include?

Kia Drive Wise driver assistance is part of the package, with the more advanced systems arriving on higher trims.

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist

• Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist

• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist

• Smart Cruise Control and Highway Driving Assist

• Available Surround View Monitor and Parking Distance Warning

Highway Driving Assist is the one that changes an I-65 run to Birmingham, holding a set distance and staying centered in lane while you steer.

Which Sorento trim is right for you?

LX

The entry point, with the Drive Wise safety features and the core technology already in place.

S

Adds sportier exterior details and convenience upgrades over the LX.

EX

The comfort step, with added interior appointments and driver assistance features.

SX and SX Prestige

Where the panoramic displays, premium audio and higher-grade materials live.

X-Line and X-Pro

Outdoor-focused versions of certain trims. X-Line brings all-wheel drive, added ground clearance and rugged styling; X-Pro goes further for off-pavement use. Availability shifts week to week, so the trims on the lot are listed in our new Kia inventory.

Why the Sorento fits life around Pelham and Birmingham

The Sorento's case is that it gives you a third row without giving you a full-size SUV to park. That matters on a Saturday at the Riverchase Galleria as much as it does in a school pickup line.

It suits the trips people here actually take: the daily run up US-31 or I-65 into Birmingham, a Saturday at Oak Mountain State Park, youth sports across Shelby County, and the long haul to the beach or up to the mountains.

Greenway Kia of Riverchase serves drivers in Pelham, Hoover, Alabaster, Homewood, Bessemer and greater Birmingham. Hours and directions are on our site if you would like to stop in.

Things to weigh before you decide

• The third row is best for children or shorter adult trips. Regular adult passengers point toward the Telluride.

• Towing capacity depends on engine and equipment. The 4,500-pound figure applies to the turbo gas model properly equipped; the hybrid is rated lower.

• The plug-in hybrid only pays off if you can charge at home. Without a place to plug in, the standard hybrid is the better fit.

• If you do not need three rows, the Kia Sportage covers similar ground for less money.

• Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage are limited warranties for the original owner, and they belong in a long-term cost comparison alongside the payment.

How to see a 2026 Sorento in Pelham

Start with our 2026 Sorento inventory to see which trims and colors are on the ground right now, along with current pricing. Anything attached to them shows up under new vehicle specials and manufacturer specials.

From there you can get a trade appraisal online, start the paperwork with our financing application, or schedule a test drive for the trim you want to try. Our team at 2200 Highway 31 South can have a Sorento pulled up and waiting — call 205-847-1459 or contact us. Already drive a Kia? You can schedule service while you are here.

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2026 Kia Sorento have third-row seating?

Yes. The Sorento seats up to seven with a second-row bench, or six with available second-row captain's chairs. The third row folds flat and the second row slides, so cargo space reaches about 75.5 cubic feet with both rows down.

Is the 2026 Kia Sorento available as a hybrid?

Yes, in two forms. The Sorento Hybrid charges itself as you drive, and the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid adds a larger battery with an EPA-estimated 34 miles of all-electric range and standard all-wheel drive.

How much can the 2026 Kia Sorento tow?

Up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped with the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, which covers most boats, utility trailers and lightweight campers. The hybrid models are rated lower, so match the powertrain to what you plan to pull.

What is new on the 2026 Sorento?

Terrain Mode with Snow, Mud and Sand settings is now standard on all-wheel-drive models, and the X-Line and X-Pro versions received updated exterior styling including a gloss black front air intake and revised grille surround.

Where can I test drive a 2026 Kia Sorento near Birmingham, AL?

At Greenway Kia of Riverchase, 2200 Highway 31 South in Pelham, just off I-65 south of Birmingham. Browse the Sorento inventory online first, then schedule a test drive for the trim and powertrain you want to compare.