2022 Kia Sorento vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling was further accentuated by black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite these efforts, the design was somewhat overwhelmed by the cartoonishly-flared quarter panels, even when equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid offered a two-tone interior with soft leather for the Limited and Platinum trims, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and the 12.3-inch touchscreen suffered from reflections on sunny days. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges also contributed to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, exuded a rugged and stylish presence. The X-Line package added rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, and robust roof rails, enhancing the SUV's already attractive design. Inside, the Sorento's cabin was luxurious, featuring Burgundy leather and a range of comfort features like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs, standard from the EX trim, were designed with children in mind, offering cupholders, USB ports, and climate control vents. However, the third-row seat was less accommodating for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. The Sorento's cargo space was expandable, and the smart power tailgate added convenience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. The new engine delivered 243 horsepower and was rated at 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. Despite the efficiency gains, the Highlander Hybrid's performance was lacklustre, with power described as adequate but not exciting. The SUV struggled with hills and freeway acceleration, and the engine sounded strained during hard acceleration. The steering was lifeless, and the ride was characterized by unwanted body movement. However, the regenerative brakes were an improvement over the previous generation, and the SUV performed well on smooth roads. Around town, the electric motor torque and EV Mode were highlights, but overall, the Highlander Hybrid was not enjoyable to drive.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a range of engine options, with the turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder being the most recommended. This engine produced 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, providing a more engaging driving experience than the base engine. The turbo engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, contributing to a sporty feel. The Sorento's suspension was tuned for a balance of comfort and control, and the SUV handled well on winding roads. However, fuel consumption was higher than expected, with the turbo engine averaging 11.5 L/100 km during testing. Despite this, the Sorento's performance was lively and enjoyable, making it feel more like a sports sedan than an SUV.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with features like a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight but felt narrow, and the overhead air vents were a source of irritation. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom, making it unsuitable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and up to 2,387 litres with all seats folded. However, storage solutions were not as practical as in the previous generation, and the wireless charger blocked access to the storage area.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior was luxurious, with features like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable and designed with children in mind, offering various storage solutions and climate control vents. However, the third-row seat was cramped for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was expandable, with 357 litres behind the third row and up to 2,139 litres with all seats folded. The smart power tailgate added convenience, but the third-row seat was best left folded for additional cargo space.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a range of technology features, including Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons for easy access. However, the JBL sound system's audio quality was inconsistent, and the voice recognition system did not control climate settings. The Highlander also offered Driver Easy Speak technology and a video rearview mirror for improved visibility.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on lower trims, while higher trims received a 10.25-inch display with navigation and Kia Connect services. The infotainment system was intuitive, but the font style and graphics might not appeal to everyone. The Sorento shared its infotainment technology with Hyundai models, but the voice recognition system was less effective. The SX trim offered a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included features like automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The system also offered intersection support and emergency steering assistance. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, and the Platinum trim included a surround-view camera system. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system and Junction Assist. The Blind View Monitor system was available on the SX trim, providing live video feeds of blind spots. Highway Driving Assist technology offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Sorento received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with the only negative rating for its LED headlights. The NHTSA gave the Sorento a four-star overall crash-test rating.