23 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2024 Kia Sorento AWD with its 2.5L four-cylinder engine. While this isn’t the most fuel-efficient SUV, it’s a reasonable compromise for buyers who want versatility, all-weather capability, and a usable third row in a relatively compact size. The Sorento is designed for families who need space and confidence without moving up to a full-size SUV.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for this Sorento configuration. The lower city MPG reflects urban driving’s stop-and-go conditions, where the engine idles and accelerates frequently. The eight-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and works well with the engine, but its performance in city traffic can’t eliminate the extra fuel used by repeatedly starting and stopping a vehicle this size. On the highway, the Sorento cruises more efficiently, allowing the engine to run closer to its optimal RPM range. However, the AWD system results in some loss, which affects fuel economy compared to a FWD model.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA projects an annual fuel cost of $1,900 for the 2024 Kia Sorento AWD 2.5L. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the EPA’s combined MPG estimate, and assuming national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on how you drive, local fuel prices, and the ratio of city to highway miles. This $1,900 figure is a benchmark to help buyers compare the Sorento’s running costs to other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

The EPA uses a standardized testing procedure, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Many owners report numbers close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions. However, aggressive driving, heavy loads, or using all-wheel-drive when it’s not needed will all reduce fuel economy. Headwinds on the highway can also have a big impact because of the Sorento’s shape and AWD system. For shoppers reviewing SORENTO MPG across all years, the 2.5L engine often delivers more consistent real-world results than some of Kia’s more expensive turbocharged options.

How it compares

The Kia Sorento faces many competitors in the mid-size SUV segment. The Toyota Highlander AWD with its 2.4L turbocharged engine gets a combined EPA rating of 24 MPG. The Honda Pilot AWD with its 3.5L V6 gets 21 MPG combined. These numbers show the Sorento’s position: it delivers an acceptable balance. The Hyundai Santa Fe AWD, which uses the same platform as the Sorento, gets the same 23 MPG combined rating with its 2.5L engine. These differences matter to buyers on a budget who are looking at more than just the initial price. Smart consumers explore all Kia fuel economy data and weigh the pros and cons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are important for maximizing fuel economy in the Sorento. Avoid accelerating or stopping hard, as this uses fuel quickly. Watch the traffic and maintain a steady speed when you can. Because the Sorento’s automatic transmission shifts efficiently, let it do its job.

Tire pressure is an often-overlooked factor in fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. A tire pressure gauge is a cheap way to avoid wasting fuel.

Carry less weight. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload, especially in city driving. Remove unnecessary items from the cargo area and seats. Roof racks also increase drag and reduce fuel economy, so remove them when you don’t need them.

Plan your trips carefully. Combine errands to minimize cold starts because cold engines use more fuel than warm engines. Plan routes to avoid traffic and reduce idling. Using navigation and traffic apps to find efficient routes will save fuel each week.

Follow the factory service recommendations. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance keep the engine running efficiently. A well-maintained engine uses less gas, and maintenance is critical for consistent MPG.