The 2026 Kia Sorento is receiving notable tech upgrades, but buyers will soon see fewer entry-level options as the base V6 engine is being discontinued. With a total of 20 trim configurations available for the 2026 model year, Kia is streamlining its lineup while introducing advanced safety and convenience features. The shift reflects a broader industry trend toward hybrid and electric options, leaving behind traditional petrol-only variants.
Enhanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Kia has upgraded the Sorento with its latest Lane Following Assist 2, promising more precise steering control without overly aggressive interventions. The system now directly adjusts the steering angle rather than relying on indirect actuators, aiming for a smoother driving experience. To prevent misuse, the car will also incorporate new hands-on detection sensors in addition to existing torque sensors, ensuring drivers remain engaged.
Powertrain Options and Pricing
The Sorento remains unique in Australia for offering a diverse range of powertrains: petrol, diesel, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. However, the V6 option is being phased out, with remaining stock expected to deplete by mid-2026. The PHEV model can be charged from 15% to 95% in approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes using a 3.3kW EVSE charger. Exact pricing varies widely based on trim, but the discontinuation of the V6 will likely impact entry-level costs.
Interior and Standard Features
All Sorento models retain three rows of seating, with the PHEV offering 175 liters of cargo space behind the third row (expanding to 604L and 1988L with seats folded). The base ‘S’ trim includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a 4.0-inch LCD instrument cluster. Higher trims like the ‘GT-Line’ add features such as a panoramic sunroof, quilted Nappa leather upholstery, and advanced parking assist systems.
Servicing and Warranty
Kia provides a comprehensive seven-year, unlimited-kilometer vehicle warranty, with high-voltage batteries covered for seven years/150,000km. Servicing intervals are every 12 months/15,000km for petrol and diesel models, and 12 months/10,000km for hybrids and PHEVs. Capped-price servicing is available for seven years, ensuring predictable maintenance costs.
Safety Ratings and Equipment
The Kia Sorento currently holds a five-star ANCAP safety rating, but this is set to expire on December 31, 2026, based on 2020 testing standards. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind-spot assist, and a rear occupant alert system. The GT-Line adds further enhancements such as a blind-spot view monitor and surround-view camera.
Conclusion: The 2026 Kia Sorento balances updated technology with a shifting powertrain strategy, signaling a broader automotive industry move toward electrification. The discontinuation of the V6 engine narrows the entry-level options, but the remaining trims offer a competitive mix of features, safety, and efficiency. The Sorento remains a versatile choice for families seeking a multi-powertrain vehicle, though buyers should act quickly if they prefer the outgoing V6 model.
