The Kia Sorento arrived to the new model year redesigned and with improved fuel economy ratings, more high-tech features, and additional safety equipment. But does that mean the Kia Sorento is the best option among its segment? Not necessarily. Because while it may have undergone a redesign, there are better alternatives to the Kia Sorento. 

The Subaru Ascent is a rugged alternative to the Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento comes standard with front-wheel drive. Though, it is available with all-wheel drive. However, a Kia Sorento equipped with all-wheel drive will require an upgrade. As for the Subaru Ascent? This year’s model comes standard with Subaru’s iconic symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Unlike the Sorento, it also boasts 8.7-inches of ground clearance and X-MODE, which is designed to further maximize traction on slippery surfaces.

But the Subaru Ascent is more than a rugged alternative to the Kia Sorento. The Subaru Ascent also has the edge when it comes to interior space. Unlike the Sorento, this year’s Ascent is standard with seating for up to eight passengers. It also offers up more space for passengers, along with significantly more cargo space.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a reliable alternative to the Kia Sorento

The Hyundai Santa Fe is another alternative to the Kia Sorento. Unlike the Kia Sorento, it’s earned some pretty impressive reliability ratings. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s Santa Fe earned a four out of five predicted reliability rating. The Kia Sorento, on the other hand, earned a disappointing three out of five rating. 

But the Hyundai Santa Fe isn’t just a reliable alternative to the Kia Sorento. It’s also a cheaper alternative to the Kia Sorento. While an entry-level Hyundai Santa Fe will run you about $26,850, an entry-level Kia Sorento will have spending just under $30,000. If you’re shopping with a strict budget in mind, that’s a pretty big difference.

Consider the Toyota Highlander if you’re after a V6 engine

Another alternative to the Kia Sorento that deserves a spot on your list? The Toyota Highlander. Especially if you’re after an SUV that comes standard with a V6 engine, which the Toyota Highlander does. Consider the base model, which comes driven by a 295-hp V6 engine. The Kia Sorento, on the other hand, comes standard with a 191-hp 2.5-liter engine. 

The Toyota Highlander also has the edge when it comes to ownership perks. Sure, the Sorento offers some pretty impressive warranty coverage, but it’s the Toyota Highlander that comes standard with complimentary maintenance for two years or 25,000-miles, whichever comes first.

The Kia Telluride might be worth the upgrade if you’re not sold on the Kia Sorento

And if you’d prefer to stick with a Kia? The Kia Telluride is another worthwhile alternative to the Kia Sorento. Sure, it’s more expensive, but it also comes standard with a V6 engine under the hood. The Kia Telluride offers up significantly more space than the Kia Sorento does too. 

You’re going to want to test-drive these alternatives to the Kia Sorento

Now, deciding between these alternatives to the Kia Sorento is going to take some time. So before making your final decision? We recommend taking each of these alternatives to the Kia Sorento out for a test drive.