Kia Sorento Ground Clearance

The Kia Sorento starts at 6.9 inches of ground clearance. Upgrade to their offroad edition, the X-line, for 8.2 inches of ground clearance.
Written by Sarah Williams
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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The 2022 Kia Sorento has 6.9 inches of ground clearance on all trim levels, except the offroading X-line, which increases to 8.2 inches. 
SUVs are a great option for all you adventurers! While selecting the right SUV for you, don’t forget to take a look at its ground clearance. AWD, engine performance, and tires are all important, but if you hit the trails only to bottom out you could have some expensive repairs ahead of you–and maybe even a tow! 
Want to know all about the Kia Sorento’s ground clearance? We've got all the specs you need to know—and will throw in some great tips for saving on
car insurance
along the way! 
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2022 Kia Sorento ground clearance

The ground clearance for a Kia Sorento varies depending on the trim level:
  • LX
    : 6.9 inches
  • S
    : 6.9 inches
  • S Hybrid: 6.9 inches
  • X-line S: 8.2 inches
  • EX
    : 6.9 inches
  • EX Hybrid: 6.9 inches
  • SX
    : 6.9 inches
  • X-line EX: 8.2 inches
  • SX Prestige: 6.9 inches
  • X-line SX Prestige: 8.2 inches
  • SX Plug-in Hybrid: 6.9 inches
  • SX Prestige Plug-in Hybrid: 6.9 inches
You’ll see that most Kia Sorento trims come with 6.9 inches of ground clearance across the board. If you’re looking for a higher ground clearance, check out the X-line S. The X-line is the Sorento’s offroad version. It features extra ground clearance at 8.2 inches. 

Kia Sorento ground clearance over the years

If you’re driving an older model Sorento, you may be working with a different ground clearance than the latest 2022 model. With each new generation, the Kia Sorento has seen changes in its ground clearance. 
Take a look at how the Kia Sorento’s ground clearance has evolved over the years: 
  • 2021-2022: 6.2-8.2 inches
  • 2014-2021: 7.3 inches
  • 2011-2013: 7.5 inches
  • 2003-2009: 8.2 inches
The Kia Sorento was redesigned in 2021, allowing for higher ground clearance in the new offroad X-line. Before this redesign, every trim level had the same ground clearance each year.
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What is ground clearance—and why does it matter?

At the end of the day, ground clearance is just a bunch of numbers if you don’t understand what they mean and why they’re important. Ground clearance is a measurement of the distance between the lowest point of your car’s body and the ground. Ultimately, it's the amount of space between your car and the ground
Having a higher ground clearance is important if you want to drive off-road. It allows you to drive over rough terrain without risking damage to your vehicle’s undercarriage. Experts recommend a ground clearance of at least 8.5 inches for off-roading adventures. In other words, even with the Kia Sorento X-line, you’ll want to play it safe. 
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Is the Kia Sorento a good off-road vehicle?

If you’re looking to go off-roading in a Kia Sorento, you’ll definitely want to consider the X-line. Specifically designed for venturing off-road, the X-line goes above the standard 6.8-inch ground clearance to 8.2 inches. 
The X-line also comes with all-wheel drive, essential for any off-road adventure. You’ll still want to be cautious, even with the X-line, as its ground clearance is just under the recommended off-roading ground clearance of 8.5 inches. 
MORE: The 10 best SUVs for towing

Guard against accidents with the best Kia Sorento insurance

If you’re looking for your next vehicle to take off-roading, don’t forget to protect it with the right insurance policy. With help from
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