First Drive: 2024 Kia Sorento SX-Prestige X-Pro

by Michael Satterfield - Photos by Lucas Kepner - 05/17/2024

The 2024 Kia Sorento X-Pro has been added to the company's lineup of off-road-inspired models, joining the Telluride X-Pro and the Sportage X-Pro. While the X-Pro lineup looks impressive, many off-road enthusiasts are skeptical about its actual off-road capability. The Sorento is designed for individuals who need a third row, which is not available in the smaller Sportage but find the Telluride too large. The availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains in the new Sorento gives buyers options, while those wanting more power can choose the turbocharged 2.5-liter I-4 gasoline engine producing 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, which is found in the Sorento X-Pro we are driving. 

Power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The steering response is excellent, even with the all-terrain tires, it still feels very poised and stable. The brakes are good but not sporty, making it comfortable to drive, just be ready for a lot of pedal travel when you stand on the brakes. 

The X-Pro includes a wheel and tire package featuring 17-inch aluminum alloy rims designed to accommodate taller sidewalls on BF Goodrich Trail Terrain tires, sized at 235/65. These all-terrain tires have a tread pattern inspired by BF Goodrich's renowned K02 off-road tires, but they are designed to be comfortable on the road. The X-Pro has the same 8.2 inches of ground clearance as any 2024 Sorento with AWD.

The X-Pro really stands out in the towing department. Due to its extra cooling system, the X-Pro offers a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds, surpassing any other Sorento by 1,000 pounds. So if you plan on towing a boat or camper, the X-Pro package is the Sorento you need.

The 2024 Sorento's cabin is a luxurious space, boasting a slightly more upscale feel compared to most other vehicles in this category. The redesigned air vents and a touch-sensitive HVAC control panel, a feature first introduced in the all-electric Kia EV6 are new this year. Additionally, most trim levels of the Sorento are equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that runs on Kia's new ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) user interface, which initially debuted on the EV9 three-row electric SUV. The infotainment is intuitive and easy to use, plus Kia made sure to have enough charging points for everyone's devices. The ccNC system offers enhanced processing power, a revamped menu structure, and improved responsiveness compared to Sorento's previous system, and it supports over-the-air updates. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.

The first two rows of the interior are spacious and comfortable, although the third row may feel cramped for anyone larger than a small child. Plus, with the third row in use, cargo space is limited, making it perfect for running the kids around town, but if you want to go on a long summer road trip, you better order a roof box.

When it comes to value, it is hard to beat the 2024 Kia Sorento SX-Prestige X-Pro. It offers the luxury and technology you want, a fit and finish that outshines most of its competitors, and the off-road capability that most people actually need all for just under $50,000.