The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento are like two standout siblings, each excelling in their own ways. Here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, many drivers have fallen for the Sorento’s blend of practicality and charm. Think of these SUVs as top chefs, each offering a unique recipe for success. But if you’re choosing just one for your driveway, which one is the better pick? The experts at Edmunds have explored the key differences to help you decide.
Hyundai and Kia are corporate cousins, sharing much of the same technology and engineering. The Santa Fe and Sorento both feature similar drivetrains and tech features. However, the 2024 Santa Fe now offers a third-row seat, matching the Sorento’s long-standing feature. This upgrade makes comparing these midsize SUVs more intriguing than ever.
Need to tow some weekend gear? Both SUVs can handle the task. The Santa Fe, when properly equipped, can tow up to 3,500 pounds—perfect for a small camper or water toys. The rugged XRT trim can pull up to 4,500 pounds. The 2025 Sorento matches this capability with a 3,500-pound tow rating for the turbocharged engine and 4,500 pounds with the off-road-focused X-Pro Prestige trim. Whether for off-road adventures or lake days, the Sorento is ready for the challenge.
While the Santa Fe delivers more power right out of the gate, the Sorento offers a plug-in hybrid option that the Santa Fe lacks. Both SUVs feature hybrid engines with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined. However, the Sorento’s plug-in hybrid model adds around 32 miles of all-electric range before switching to hybrid mode, where it still achieves an impressive 34 mpg. If eco-friendly driving with a substantial electric range is your priority, the Sorento has you covered.
When it comes to style, personal preference reigns supreme. The Santa Fe’s boxy, angular design recalls the rugged look of classic models like the Jeep Cherokee or Land Rover Defender. The XRT trim enhances this with raised ground clearance, distinctive wheels, and all-terrain tires. On the flip side, the Sorento sports a sleeker, more refined design with smooth curves, tapered windows, and a bold front end. For 2025, the Sorento features a new front grille, revised taillights, updated wheel designs, and new X-Line and X-Pro trims for a more rugged appearance.
The 2025 Sorento’s infotainment system boasts a dual-screen setup that curves across the dashboard. Standard models include a 4.3-inch digital gauge display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. Higher trims upgrade to a fully reconfigurable 12.3-inch digital display, offering a more customizable and immersive experience. It’s a blend of advanced technology and style, putting everything right at your fingertips.
The Edmunds.com review team praised the 2025 Kia Sorento for its “abundance of standard and optional features, sharp-looking and easy-to-use infotainment system, and quiet cabin on the highway.” The X-Pro model provides more capability for dirt roads, along with extra might for trailering. After living with the Sorento as a daily driver for a year, this group of journalists was most happy about its spacious interior and impressive suite of available in-car tech.