The 2016 Kia Sorento FE AWD 3.3L V6 gets 21 MPG combined, which isn’t the best in its class. This SUV focuses on providing ample space, V6 power, and all-wheel drive without being too expensive. This Sorento targets families who want a versatile and affordable vehicle. Buyers trading some fuel economy for the ability to haul people and cargo, or drive safely on snowy roads, will find value here.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the expected lower mileage from stop-and-go driving, where the V6 engine works harder. Highway driving shows a better figure because the automatic (S6) transmission settles into higher gears for efficient cruising. You can expect to achieve the highway MPG figure on long road trips at consistent speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Kia Sorento FE AWD 3.3L 6-cyl is about $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual costs may differ depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how much you drive in the city versus on the highway.

While this cost might be considerable, remember the vehicle’s size, engine, and all-wheel-drive system. You can explore all Kia fuel economy data to compare the Sorento’s performance to other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world MPG can vary. Fuel economy can be impacted by things such as aggressive driving, heavy loads, and using air conditioning. You can achieve mileage closer to the EPA estimates with gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and proper tire inflation. Adjusting your driving habits is critical for drivers who want better fuel efficiency. Checking the SORENTO MPG across all years can show what to expect from specific model years.

How it compares

The 2016 Sorento FE AWD 3.3L V6 is in a competitive segment. The Toyota Highlander with its 3.5L V6 and AWD gets slightly better mileage, at 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Honda Pilot, another popular choice, gets an EPA-estimated 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway with its AWD system. The Nissan Pathfinder with its V6 and AWD gets 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Therefore, the Sorento’s fuel economy is typical for V6-powered, all-wheel-drive SUVs, but there are slightly more fuel-efficient options if that is a priority.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid accelerating too fast. The Sorento’s V6 engine is strong, but pressing hard on the gas pedal wastes fuel. Accelerating gradually lets the engine operate more efficiently, drawing you closer to the rated MPG, so monitor your driving style using the car’s built-in fuel economy display.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder, decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level on the driver’s side doorjamb. This is a simple way to improve fuel efficiency.

Don’t let the engine idle too long, because doing so wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine; restarting the Sorento is quick and will save fuel.

Reduce the weight in your car. Carrying unnecessary weight puts extra strain on the engine, decreasing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the cargo area to help the engine use less gas.

On long, flat stretches of road, use cruise control to maintain a consistent speed. This reduces engine RPM fluctuations for better fuel economy.