37 MPG combined is good for the 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid FWD, especially considering it offers family space and practicality with lower fuel costs and reduced running costs. It’s not trying to be a hyper-efficient Prius, but it is a mid-size SUV for weekday school runs and weekend trips that’s now more frugal thanks to its hybrid engine.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers show it does better in cities, with 39 MPG in the city versus 35 MPG on the highway. This is due to the Sorento Hybrid’s well-designed engine. The electric motor helps at lower speeds, handling stop-and-go traffic efficiently, while the gasoline engine takes over at higher, consistent speeds. The automatic (AM-S6) transmission works well with both, using less fuel whether you’re on city streets or the highway. The slightly lower highway number is normal for hybrids that depend more on their gasoline engines at higher speeds, but 35 MPG is still respectable for a vehicle this size.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Kia Sorento Hybrid FWD is $1,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles a year, using average national fuel prices. Fuel prices change, and your driving habits will affect this number. Still, $1,200 is a good benchmark for comparing the Sorento Hybrid to others in its class. This is a major benefit for families on a budget who need SUV space but are tired of high gas bills from traditional gasoline models. This represents real savings that families can expect.

Real-world expectations

The EPA has standardized tests, but real-world fuel economy varies. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, and bad weather all affect MPG. Drivers who drive carefully and maintain their vehicle well can often get close to, or better than, the EPA estimates. Understanding the Sorento Hybrid’s system is important. Learn to control the throttle to get the most out of electric-only driving at low speeds, and anticipate traffic to brake less.

How it compares

The Sorento Hybrid FWD competes with other hybrid SUVs. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid LE offers standard AWD and is rated at 36 MPG combined, making the Sorento a bit more appealing. The Ford Escape Hybrid FWD gets 41 MPG combined, but it’s smaller, which might not work for families needing more space. The hybrid version is a big improvement compared to the non-hybrid Sorento with its 2.5L engine, which gets around 26 MPG combined. For those looking at all Kia fuel economy data, the Sorento Hybrid is a leader in its class, balancing efficiency with family space and versatility. See the SORENTO MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently. The Sorento Hybrid’s electric motor gives you instant power, so you don’t need to press the gas pedal hard. Accelerate slowly, especially from a stop, to keep the vehicle in electric mode longer. Watch the power gauge, and try to keep the needle in the “Eco” zone as much as you can.

Use regenerative braking well. Anticipate stops and coast when you can, letting the system recapture energy and recharge the battery. Avoid hard braking unless you need to. The Sorento Hybrid has a very good regen system. You’ll quickly learn how it feels and start to anticipate its actions.

Keep your tires inflated. Underinflated tires create resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tires often and inflate them to the pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is good for all vehicles, but more important in a hybrid.

Remove extra weight. The heavier your vehicle, the more energy it uses. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk to lighten the load. Every pound makes a difference, especially in city driving where you’re always accelerating and decelerating.