21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s the reality of owning a 2018 Kia Sorento FE AWD with the 3.3L V6. This isn’t a vehicle bought by hypermilers; it’s chosen by families needing three rows of seating and the peace of mind that comes with all-wheel drive. They accept the trade-off, prioritizing practicality and capability over outright frugality at the pump. This Sorento configuration prioritizes power for hauling kids and cargo, not sipping fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for this particular Sorento configuration. The city figure reflects the engine’s workload in stop-and-go traffic, which is made worse by the added weight and friction of the all-wheel-drive system. Expect frequent trips to the gas station if your daily commute primarily involves urban streets. On the open road, the Sorento fares better, with the 3.3L V6 settling into a more efficient cruise. Even on the highway, the Sorento’s aerodynamic profile and all-wheel-drive system prevent it from achieving truly impressive numbers. This is a vehicle built for consistent capability and comfort, so fuel costs are a necessary part of the ownership equation.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Kia Sorento FE AWD 3.3L V6 is $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Individual costs will fluctuate depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the proportion of city versus highway driving, but $2,100 works as a good baseline for understanding the ongoing expense of owning this particular Sorento. Factor this cost into your budget when comparing it to other SUVs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world MPG often varies. Expect to see figures slightly below the EPA estimates, especially if most of your driving is in heavy traffic or involves frequent short trips. Aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, and even weather conditions can impact fuel economy. Owners who carefully monitor their driving habits and prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds may be able to achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. However, it’s crucial to recognize that the Sorento 3.3L AWD isn’t designed for maximizing fuel efficiency; it’s designed for providing a comfortable and capable driving experience for families.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size SUVs with all-wheel drive and similar engine configurations, the 2018 Kia Sorento FE AWD 3.3L V6’s fuel economy is relatively competitive, but not class-leading. For example, the 2018 Toyota Highlander AWD with its 3.5L V6 achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined, slightly less than the Sorento. Meanwhile, the 2018 Honda Pilot AWD manages 22 MPG combined, a noticeable improvement. A buyer considering the Sorento likely understands that fuel economy isn’t its primary strength. They are often drawn to its value, warranty, and available features, accepting a slightly lower MPG in exchange for these benefits. For example, someone choosing between a base-model Sorento and a higher-trim Highlander may willingly sacrifice 1-2 MPG to save thousands of dollars on the purchase price. Be sure to view all all Kia fuel economy data to ensure you are picking the right Kia model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Sorento 3.3L AWD isn’t inherently fuel-efficient, adopting a few simple driving techniques can help squeeze out extra miles per gallon. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Sorento’s six-speed automatic transmission responds best to smooth, gradual inputs, allowing it to shift efficiently and keep the engine in its optimal RPM range.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended PSI as indicated on the tire placard.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the Sorento impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to improve the vehicle’s overall fuel efficiency. This is especially true for roof racks, which significantly increase drag and fuel consumption on the highway.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes variations in engine load and fuel consumption. However, be mindful of terrain changes, excessive use of cruise control on hilly roads can sometimes lead to lower fuel economy as the transmission downshifts frequently to maintain speed.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure the engine is properly tuned, the air filter is clean, and that you’re using the recommended motor oil. All of these factors impact the engine’s performance and fuel consumption. Also be sure to check SORENTO MPG across all years to see how your particular Sorento’s stats compare to the model across its entire lifespan.