Michael SatterfieldThe 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.
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.
