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2019 Kia Sorento Adds Standard Third-Row Seating and New Diesel Option
2019 Kia Sorento: The Complete Guide to Kia's Flagship Three-Row SUV
Key Takeaways:
- Standard third-row seating across all trims for 7-passenger capacity
- Two powertrain options: 185-hp 2.4L 4-cylinder or 290-hp 3.3L V6
- New standard safety tech including forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist
- Premium interior upgrades with available Nappa leather and Harman Kardon audio
- Competes with: Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe
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Redesigned for Family Adventures
The 2019 Kia Sorento represents a significant evolution in Kia's midsize SUV strategy, now positioning itself as a true three-row competitor in the crowded family SUV segment. With subtle but impactful styling updates, enhanced safety technology, and a more refined interior, the Sorento delivers exceptional value against rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer.
Exterior Design: Bold Yet Sophisticated
Kia's designers applied thoughtful updates to the Sorento's exterior that enhance its road presence while maintaining the model's distinctive character:
Front-End Enhancements
- More sculpted bumper with aggressive lines
- Revised headlight design with full LED lighting (SX/SXL trims)
- Projection foglamps (EX/SX) or LED foglamps (SXL)
Rear Styling Updates
- Muscular new bumper design
- Sleeker taillamp configuration
- Revised exhaust tip integration
The Sorento rides on three newly designed wheel options ranging from 17-inch alloys on base models to premium 19-inch designs on upper trims.
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Interior: Premium Materials & Smart Packaging
The 2019 Sorento's cabin represents a major step forward in refinement and functionality:
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Standard third-row seating | All trims |
| 40/20/40-split folding second row | Standard |
| 50/50-split folding third row | Standard |
| Nappa leather upholstery | SXL trim |
| Harman Kardon premium audio | SX/SXL trims |
Notable Interior Upgrades
- New Mahogany and Terracotta color options
- Revised steering wheel and shift knob designs
- Reshaped air vents for better airflow
- Updated instrument cluster graphics
- Available wireless charging pad
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Performance & Drivetrain Options
Kia streamlined the Sorento's powertrain lineup while improving transmission technology:
Standard Engine
2.4L 4-cylinder:
185 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
178 lb-ft torque @ 4,000 rpm
6-speed automatic transmission
EPA estimates: 22 mpg city/29 highway (FWD)
Available Upgrade
3.3L V6:
290 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
252 lb-ft torque @ 5,300 rpm
New 8-speed automatic transmission
EPA estimates: 19 mpg city/26 highway (FWD)
All-wheel drive remains available across the lineup, with a torque-split system that automatically routes power to wheels with the most traction.
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Advanced Safety & Driver Assistance
The 2019 Sorento represents Kia's commitment to safety leadership with these standard and available features:
Standard on EX and Above
- Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
New for 2019
- Driver Attention Warning system
- Lane Keeping Assist with active steering correction
- High Beam Assist
Technology & Infotainment
The Sorento's tech interface received meaningful upgrades for better connectivity:
Base System (L/LX)
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- 6-speaker audio system
Upgraded System (EX and above)
- 8-inch touchscreen with navigation
- HD Radio
- Available Harman Kardon premium audio (10 speakers, 630 watts)
- QuantumLogic Surround Sound technology
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Trim Level Breakdown
Understanding the Sorento's five trim levels helps buyers find their perfect match:
L (Base)
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Cloth seating
- 7-inch infotainment screen
LX (Value Leader)
- Added convenience features
- Enhanced interior materials
- Rearview camera
EX (Premium Features)
- Leather upholstery
- Power driver's seat
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
SX (Performance-Oriented)
- 19-inch wheels
- Sport-tuned suspension
- LED headlights
SXL (Luxury Focused)
- Nappa leather seats
- Ventilated front seats
- Surround View Monitor
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Competitive Landscape
How the Sorento stacks up against key rivals in the three-row midsize SUV segment:
| Model | Base Engine | Max Seating | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Kia Sorento | 185-hp 2.4L | 7 | $26,990 |
| Toyota Highlander | 185-hp 2.7L | 8 | $31,830 |
| Honda Pilot | 280-hp 3.5L | 8 | $31,450 |
| Ford Explorer | 290-hp 3.5L | 7 | $32,365 |
Why Choose the 2019 Sorento?
The 2019 Kia Sorento stands out in the competitive midsize SUV segment with:
- Value Leadership: More standard features per dollar than most competitors
- Warranty Advantage: Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage
- Refined Dynamics: Improved ride quality and noise isolation
- Family-Friendly Design: Thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin
For shoppers considering a three-row SUV that balances capability, comfort and value, the 2019 Kia Sorento deserves serious consideration alongside segment stalwarts like the Highlander and Pilot.
Explore More: How the Sorento compares to other three-row SUVs | Complete guide to Kia's safety technology
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Last Updated On May, 06-2025