2022 Kia Sorento Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

Gone are the days where having a larger family meant being doomed to drive a minivan. Three-row SUVs have come to change the way we look at family vehicles, likely forever. They have the seating necessary for the whole crew while, at least in theory, being more fun to drive and better looking.

Three rows of seating in a smaller SUV may not sound like a great idea, but that is exactly what the 2022 Kia Sorento has to offer. Although it is technically classified as a midsize option, it is not as big as the Kia Telluride. That said, buyers will likely be pleasantly surprised by the amount of interior space. This vehicle is also applauded for its long list of standard features for a relatively low price.

This year, Kia breaks the Sorento family down into eight different trim levels. Some may argue that a few of these trims are merely appearance packages, but since Kia lists them as their own models, the following guide will treat them as such. In the guide, all of the differences between each trim level will be highlighted.

Drivers who have decided on the 2022 Sorento, but who are not sure which model is right for them, can use the following information to make a decision.

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Compare the LX vs. S Trims. What is the difference?

For the LX, the Sorento gives drivers a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that makes 191-horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It pairs nicely with an eight-speed automatic transmission. When this trim has front-wheel drive, it is estimated to give drivers 24mpg in the city and 29mpg on the highway. Going with all-wheel drive means going down to 23mpg city and 25mpg highway.

There are six paint options for the base LX model, all of which lean toward the bland side. The front and rear skid plates have a matte black finish. Power-adjustable and heated side mirrors with turn signal integration are standard, along with multi-reflector LED headlights. The Sorento LX sits on 17-inch alloy wheels.

The LX model stands out with its impressive 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay technology all included as standard features. Listening to the HD radio or your favorite playlist is sure to be a treat courtesy of the six speakers while up to 6 USB ports conveniently located throughout make charging on the go easier than ever before. Plus, an additional 12-volt power outlet in both front console and cargo area adds even more convenience for those long journeys.

Whether cruising down the highway or carpooling around town, passengers of all sizes can remain comfortable in the Sorento LX. The driver's seat is equipped with a six-way manual adjustment and front passenger gets four-ways while keeping cool thanks to standard air conditioning complete with rear vents for those in back rows. With seating up to seven and second row seats that fold flat at the touch of one button as well as reclining third row options - road trips are just more fun when everyone is comfy.

Cargo space with all three rows of seating up is a bit lacking in all of the 2022 Sorento trim levels. Drivers will find just 12.6 cubic feet to work with. Folding down the third row means getting 45 cubic feet, which is more in line with the Sorento's rivals. With both back rows of seats down, the Sorento offers up to 75.5 cubic feet for gear.

Lane departure warning, lane-keep assist, and forward-collision avoidance assist are standard for all 2022 Sorento models. The rearview monitor comes with dynamic guidelines, and there is even a driver attention monitoring system that will sound an alert when the lead vehicle starts to move. Finally, the LX trim is equipped with a rear occupant alert feature.

Moving up to the S trim changes nothing as far as what is underneath the hood. It does add two more paint options, known as Wolf Gray and Sapphire Blue. While the LX sits on 17-inch wheels, the S upgrades 18-inch ones instead. The matte black features found on the LX also become gloss black when taking a look at the S. Low-profile roof rails are added as well.

Although not standard, the S is the first trim to offer a panoramic sunroof. Inside, the touchscreen size jumps up to 10.25-inches, and a one-year subscription to UVO-Link is thrown in. Satellite radio and navigation both join the already impressive list of standard tech features. Drivers also get voice recognition and the ability to stream from multiple devices. The second row of seating also gains a second USB port.

The S trim of this SUV offers the added convenience and luxury of push-button and remote start, plus dual-zone automatic climate control to keep everyone in perfect comfort. For a special touch, heated front seats with 10-way power adjustment for the driver's seat come standard along with leather wrapping on both steering wheel and shifter knob. You'll also benefit from increased safety features such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, parking sensors - even rear emergency braking should you need it.

Compare the Sorento S vs. X-Line S AWD. What is the difference?

The first X-Line on the list is the X-Line S AWD. As the name implies, this model of the Sorento comes standard with all-wheel drive. It also restyles the bumpers and swaps out the gloss black exterior accents for silver ones. This trim level sits on dark gray wheels and gets raised roof rails to help round out the more aggressive look of the Sorento X-Line AWD. Otherwise, the features are the same as the ones found in the Sorento S. It has a starting price that is exactly $2,000 higher than the standard S trim.

Compare Sorento X-Line S vs. EX Trims. What is the difference?

The all-new 2022 Kia Sorento EX takes the power up a notch to provide an exhilarating driving experience! Its 2.5L turbocharged engine produces 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, backed by an eight speed automatic transmission with dual clutch feature for added performance. What's more: front wheel drive gives impressive fuel efficiency ratings of 22 mpg city/ 29 mpg highway - yet AWD is not available on this model as standard.

On the exterior, all of the accents revert back to gloss black. This mid-level trim comes standard with a smart power liftgate, which opens automatically when it senses someone standing behind it with its key fob. Front LED fog lights also join the exterior of the Sorento EX.

Inside, this model gains a wireless device charging pad. It is the first model to come standard with seating for six, thanks to the second-row captain's chairs. Otherwise, the interior is very similar to the S and X-Line S AWD.

The EX does gain some important driver aids, however. Adaptive cruise control becomes standard for this model, as well as a more sophisticated forward-collision mitigation system. While the standard one found in previous trim levels can detect pedestrians, the one found in the EX can also detect cyclists.

Compare the EX vs. X-Line EX AWD. What is the difference?

The 2022 Kia Sorento X-Line EX AWD steps up the game for drivers who require all-wheel drive but do not want to purchase a higher trim level. This special edition offers an array of upgrades, including increased power with its standard engine and improved fuel efficiency at 21mpg in city driving and 28mpg on highways. Enjoy sleek styling tweaks such as 20" wheels, sunroof included by default - plus additional features offered from the standard EX model! An additional $4K price tag is required compared to regular trims; however this version gives you even more bang for your buck.

Compare the X-Line EX AWD vs. SX. What is the difference?

The futuristic, full-LED headlights of the SX model are combined with LED daytime running lights and taillights to turn heads. Riding atop gleaming 20" gloss black wheels, it is sure to stand out from the crowd. But that's not all - inside you'll find an 8 way power adjustable passenger seat as well a variety of luxe metal accents adorning every corner! Not only does this top tier Sorento commands respect on both style and performance fronts but its price tag will make your wallet smile too.

Compare the SX vs. SX Prestige. What is the difference?

The SX Prestige trim level of the 2022 Sorento is where things get downright luxurious. The outside mirrors gain the ability to power-fold, and the interior gains a 12-speaker premium sound system from Bose. There is also a 12.3-inch LCD driver information display, giving the Sorento a more high-tech look and feel.

Driving the Sorento SX Prestige is a luxurious experience, featuring genuine perforated leather upholstery and 14-way power adjustment for the driver's seat, along with two-way lumbar support and thigh extensions. The added bonus of heated seating in both rows makes long trips more comfortable than ever before - not to mention a steaming hot steering wheel! Technology savvy drivers will also appreciate having an auto-dimming rearview mirror as standard alongside blind view monitoring when turn signals are activated plus front parking sensors coupled with 360 degree camera systems.

Compare the SX Prestige vs. X-Line SX Prestige AWD. What is the difference?

Drivers who want the ultimate 2022 Sorento can go with the X-Line SX Prestige AWD. On top of the numerous features found on the typical SX Prestige, this model gets standard all-wheel drive and styling upgrades. It costs $2,000 more than the typical SX Prestige.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Kia Sorento offers an array of features, no matter which trim level you choose. With its entry-level EX option featuring enough amenities to make it a serious contender in the market and an affordable price tag, shoppers are sure to be satisfied with this pick. However, those who opt for that extra bit will find the S model just as delightful; heated front seats come standard alongside other popular features plus a more advanced infotainment system – all at less than $3K over the base cost! And if drivers desire enhanced traction capabilities? No need to worry - Kia also has their X-Line S AWD available right away.
Most drivers will be very happy with their 2022 Kia Sorento if they choose the S trim.