The 2020 Kia Sorento AWD with the 3.3L V6 gets 20 MPG combined. It’s not the most fuel-efficient SUV, but the Sorento is designed to prioritize space, comfort, and the confidence of all-wheel drive. This version suits families who need a capable and versatile vehicle and are willing to accept some compromises at the pump. These buyers value the V6’s smooth power and the security of AWD for winter driving or weekend adventures, knowing that these benefits mean higher gas consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Kia Sorento AWD V6 at 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving common during family errands and daily commutes. The 24 MPG highway rating suggests reasonable efficiency for longer trips, though it still lags behind many competitors, especially those with smaller turbocharged engines or hybrid systems. The Sorento’s eight-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize fuel economy, but the larger V6 ultimately determines the MPG. Some might question the numbers at first, but these figures are predictable and acceptable for drivers who prioritize the V6’s power delivery, towing capability, and proven reliability over maximizing every last mile per gallon.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Kia Sorento AWD 3.3L V6 to be $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. This estimated cost provides buyers with a baseline for comparison against other vehicles. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of driving you do. Someone who primarily drives short distances in the city will likely exceed the $2,200 estimate, while those who do mostly highway driving may come in slightly under.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA’s numbers are a useful starting point, real-world MPG often varies. Expect to see figures that fluctuate slightly above or below the official numbers depending on your driving style and conditions. Aggressive acceleration, heavy loads, and consistently driving in heavy traffic will all negatively impact fuel economy. But gentle acceleration, keeping a steady speed on the highway, and properly inflating your tires can help you achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. The Sorento’s trip computer can provide insights into your driving habits and fuel consumption, allowing you to make adjustments to improve your MPG.

How it compares

The 2020 Sorento AWD V6’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The Toyota Highlander AWD with its V6 engine offers a slightly better 22 MPG combined. The Honda Pilot AWD is similarly more efficient, achieving a combined 23 MPG. Even some larger SUVs, like the Ford Explorer with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine, can match or slightly surpass the Sorento’s fuel economy while offering similar or even greater passenger and cargo space. However, these alternatives may have a higher price or different compromises in terms of features or driving experience. The Sorento’s value often lies in its combination of features, space, and price, even if fuel economy isn’t its best feature. Buyers should also consider other Sorento trims: for example, exploring SORENTO MPG across all years reveals other powertrain options that offer more fuel savings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Sorento’s V6 provides ample power, but using it carefully will save fuel. Gradual acceleration and smooth braking are key to maximizing MPG, especially in city driving. Every hard press on the accelerator wastes fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, using a reliable gauge, and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a few PSI difference can impact your fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Letting the Sorento idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, including the Sorento, are designed to restart quickly and reliably, so there’s no need to let them idle unnecessarily.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed on the highway helps optimize the engine’s efficiency. Cruise control prevents unintentional speed fluctuations, which can waste fuel. Be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the system may downshift excessively to maintain speed, negating some of the benefits.

Consider a lighter load. The Sorento is designed to carry passengers and cargo (perhaps exploring all Kia fuel economy data afterward). Avoiding unnecessary weight can improve fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the vehicle, especially heavy ones. The less weight the engine has to move, the less fuel it will consume.