2025 Kia Telluride vs 2024 Kia Sorento

On the small end of the midsize SUV spectrum, the Sorento is a classic in-betweener. It’s big enough to get a standard third row and has more room than compact crossovers like the Toyota RAV4, but it’s smaller and cheaper than most three-row midsizes, including Kia’s Telluride and the Ford Explorer. Gas-powered 2024 Sorentos get a visual glow-up as well as major infotainment and safety system updates, and a new X-Pro trim. Hybrid and PHEV Sorentos, which we review separately, won’t get these changes until 2025.

Verdict: The 2024 Kia Sorento’s new looks make it seem bigger and fancier, and the X-Pro adds capability. There are more safety features and the Sorento’s tech is even easier to use. Demerits remain, namely the diminutive third row and pricey top trims, but the 2024 Sorento has lots to offer family buyers.

Nearly every mainstream car company offers at least one family-friendly, midsize three-row SUV. Kia has three, and the Telluride is the largest of its gas-powered models. (The electric-only EV9 is slightly larger). The Telluride debuted in 2020 to critical acclaim and commercial success. Since then, it has received several updates but not a redesign. We took a 2025 Kia Telluride on a nearly 2,000-kilometre family road trip and remain impressed with this stylish and capable Kia.

Verdict: Aging technology caused some irritation during a five-day road trip in the 2025 Kia Telluride. Otherwise, it was perfectly suited to long-distance travel whether rolling down a highway, roaming a major city, or romping down trails.