The 2018 Kia Sorento AWD with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine gets 22 MPG combined. This number reflects the design of a three-row crossover made to haul families and their gear in all weather conditions. In this configuration, the Sorento suits buyers who value affordability and practicality over the best fuel economy, understanding that space and security come with a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Kia Sorento AWD 2.4L are 21 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These figures show that this Sorento performs best on the open road. The constant acceleration and braking of stop-and-go city driving is where fuel efficiency suffers most. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, but it doesn’t have the gear range to maximize fuel efficiency at lower speeds. Highway cruising allows the engine to run at a more efficient speed. The AWD system provides extra traction, but it adds weight and drivetrain losses, slightly impacting both city and highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Kia Sorento AWD 2.4L will be around $2,000. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and your local fuel prices, as these change based on world markets.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standard, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2018 Kia Sorento AWD 2.4L often report numbers close to, and sometimes exceeding, the EPA estimates on the highway, particularly on long road trips at a consistent speed. However, aggressive driving, heavy loads, and frequent short trips in colder climates can easily lower the average below 22 MPG. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the terrain you drive on affect fuel efficiency. If you drive conservatively, drive mostly highway miles, and maintain your Sorento, hitting the EPA targets is possible.

How it compares

The 2018 Kia Sorento AWD 2.4L’s fuel economy is average compared to its competitors. The Toyota Highlander LE with its 2.7L four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive gets a slightly better 24 MPG combined, while the Honda Pilot LX with its 3.5L V6 and front-wheel drive achieves 23 MPG combined in base trims. The Nissan Pathfinder S with a 3.5L V6 and front-wheel drive also gets 23 MPG combined. The all-wheel-drive versions of these vehicles have MPG numbers closer to the Sorento’s.

For Sorento buyers wanting better fuel economy, the optional V6 engine might be a better choice. Some find it more responsive and achieve similar MPGs in real-world driving because the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to move the vehicle. If you are looking for all Kia fuel economy data, it is broken down by vehicle and year. You can also find SORENTO MPG across all years to see how they compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Driving style affects fuel economy in any vehicle, including the 2018 Sorento AWD 2.4L. Avoiding hard acceleration and keeping a steady speed on the highway can improve your MPG. Watch traffic and let your foot off the gas when approaching stops to allow the vehicle to coast.

Tire pressure is often forgotten. Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure (on the doorjamb sticker or in the owner’s manual) to reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure often, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can change.

Regular maintenance is important for performance and fuel economy. Scheduled oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements ensure that the engine runs efficiently. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more cleanly and effectively, leading to better MPG.

Use accessories that draw power from the engine, such as air conditioning, sparingly. While needed for comfort, using it less, especially in city driving, can help improve fuel economy. Use recirculated air or the ventilation system without the A/C compressor when possible.