Kia Sorento vs Hyundai Ioniq 9

The 2025 Kia Sorento, available in Canada, offered a range of trims including LX, EX, X-Line, X-Line Limited, and X-Pro. The base LX trim was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, while the other trims boasted a turbocharged version of the same engine. The Sorento introduced a new Panthera Grey paint colour, and the X-Line and X-Pro trims featured black badges. The X-Pro trim, priced at $55,706, included exclusive features such as unique bumper covers, matte-black 17-inch wheels, and enhanced towing capacity. Despite its rugged appearance, the X-Pro did not significantly improve off-road capabilities compared to the X-Line models. Inside, the Sorento X-Pro featured an Olive Brown interior with a panoramic sunroof, leather seats, and a 24-inch panoramic display, offering a mix of luxury and practicality.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 showcased a distinctive design that divided opinions. Inspired by smooth pebbles and midcentury modern sofas, the Ioniq 9 aimed for an aerodynamic shape while accommodating seven passengers. Measuring 5,060 millimetres in length with a 3,130 mm wheelbase, it offered impressive interior volume. Despite its size, the Ioniq 9 achieved a 0.27 drag coefficient, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency. The design featured a swooping roofline and a stubby rear end, with LED taillights wrapping around the rear. Available in seven paint colours, the Ioniq 9 offered various trim-specific options. Inside, the Ioniq 9 provided a spacious and airy environment, with flat floors and a sliding centre console. The interior featured high-quality materials, although some elements, like the dashboard insert, felt underwhelming. The Ioniq 9's seats were comfortable but lacked thigh support.

The 2025 Kia Sorento LX was powered by a 191-horsepower, 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering an estimated fuel economy of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine delivered 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, with a fuel economy rating of 10.3 L/100 km. The Sorento X-Pro, equipped with all-terrain tires, provided a smooth ride and impressive grip on winding roads. Its all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring and a locking centre differential enhanced traction and nimbleness. The Sorento excelled in daily driving, with its size, driving dynamics, and visibility making it a pleasure to drive in various settings.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 featured a 110.3-kWh battery pack on the e-GMP platform. The base Essential trim offered rear-wheel drive with a 160-kW electric motor producing 215 horsepower. Other trims featured dual-motor all-wheel-drive systems, with power outputs ranging from 303 to 422 horsepower. The Ioniq 9 impressed with its energy efficiency, often exceeding the estimated 500-kilometre range. Its chassis provided a smooth ride, although its weight and soft suspension affected cornering performance. The Ioniq 9 offered a quiet cabin, with active noise cancellation and sound-absorbing tires. Towing capacity varied from 1,587 kilograms for the RWD model to 2,268 kilograms for AWD models. Charging options included Tesla-style NACS superchargers and CCS-port Level 3 chargers, with charging times ranging from 24 to 40 minutes.

The 2025 Kia Sorento appealed to families with its spacious interior. The first two rows offered ample room, and the third row could accommodate adults for short trips. The Sorento X-Pro featured heated and ventilated front seats with power adjustments, while second-row passengers enjoyed heated seats and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous, with 357 litres available with the third row up, expanding to 2,139 litres with all seats folded. The Sorento's storage solutions were practical, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 focused on family-friendly dimensions, seating seven with a middle-row bench seat. The Preferred AWD+ with the Ultimate Calligraphy Package offered ventilated captain's chairs and a sliding centre console. The Ioniq 9 provided 1,086 millimetres of legroom in the middle row, while the third row offered 813 mm. The rear doors facilitated easy access, and dual-zone climate control with air vents in all rows ensured comfort. Cargo space ranged from 620 litres behind the third row to 2,462 litres with all seats folded. The Ioniq 9's interior was practical, although the driver's seat adjustability was limited.

The 2025 Kia Sorento featured a 24-inch panoramic display with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and touchscreen infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, while Kia Connect offered additional features like 911 Connect and remote access. The Sorento's dual-function controls could be frustrating, but the available surround-view camera system and digital rearview mirror enhanced convenience and safety.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 boasted dual curved 12.3-inch displays, offering a familiar infotainment interface. Standard features included SiriusXM Satellite Radio, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The Ioniq 9's wireless charging pad struggled to keep up with high-demand devices, but six USB-C ports provided ample charging options. The 14-speaker Bose audio system delivered impressive sound quality, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Kia Sorento came equipped with a range of standard safety features, with higher trims offering advanced collision avoidance technologies and a surround-view camera system. The Highway Driving Assist 2 system provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities, although it required regular driver input. The Sorento earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2024.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 included a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, such as collision avoidance and lane-guidance technologies. The Highway Driving Assist 2 system offered hands-free driving, although it was less sophisticated than some competitors. The Preferred AWD's Luxury package and Preferred AWD+ trims featured a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor, enhancing safety and convenience.