Kia Sorento SX V6
Kia removed the V6 engine as an option with the 4th-generation Sorento in 2020, but earlier used models can still be purchased.
Written by Sarah Gray
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
From its release in 2011 through the 2020 model year, the Kia Sorento SX came standard with a V6 engine.
The Kia Sorento SX always featured a V6 engine—which Car and Driver considered “a must”—until it didn’t. The V6 disappeared with the 2021 model year with hardly a comment from Kia and took 1,500 pounds of available towing capacity with it.
Fortunately, those interested in the SX’s gutsy V6 can still find it in used models, which is why we've gathered a selection of specs from the Sorento SX’s golden V6 years to help buyers choose their best option.
2020 Kia Sorento SX V6
Starting price: $28,110 ($23,998, used)
Engine: 3.3 L V6
Horsepower: 290 hp @ 6400 rpm
Torque: 252 lb-ft @ 5300 rpm
0 to 60: 7.2 seconds
With the Sorento SX V6, Kia took what might otherwise be a boring grocery-getter and made it into a peppy, sporty crossover that's fun to drive. Available in eight colors that include unique shades like Dragon Brown, the SX also features an upgraded sound system, keyless entry, and power-adjustable front seats.
Other standout features of the 2020 Sorento V6 include:
- Best-in-class factory navigation system: Unlike many manufacturers, Kia’s nav system is intuitive and user-friendly.
- 14-way power driver’s seat with memory: No matter how many people are driving your Kia, you’ll always be able to get your seat just right.
- 5-star NHTSA safety rating: Most of Kia’s suite of safety features, which includes features like blind-spot monitoring and emergency braking, are included on all models of the Sorento.
In addition to all this and a V6 engine, the 2020 Kia Sorento SX also features rear-seat monitoring to notify you if you’ve left a child in your car and a surround-view camera for added safety.
How’s the fuel economy?
We’re not going to lie, the Sorento SX V6 is a bit on the thirsty side, even for a V6. The combined fuel economy is 22 mpg with 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. While it’s tempting to think mediocre fuel efficiency drove Kia to ditch the V6 option, the turbocharged inline-4 that replaced it only returns 2 more mpg.
Which Sorento models have the V6?
The SX always came standard with the V6 engine, and the V6 has always been optional on all but the base-level L trim. In 2017, Kia began offering a V6 standard with the EX and SX-L trims, but in 2018, it returned to optional status on the EX. In 2019, the EX was back with a standard V6, and the new EX-Sport also offered a standard V6.
How fast is the Kia Sorento V6?
The V6 certainly peps up the Kia’s performance, but it’s still an SUV, not a sports car. Regardless of trim, the 2020 V6 Sorento reached 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.
The lower-trim four-cylinder Sorento took 9.9 seconds to reach 60 mph. That’s not bad, but many comparable SUVs equipped with standard four-cylinder engines are still faster.
Key Takeaway When equipped with the V6, the Kia Sorento can keep up with the competition, but it’s still not the fastest SUV available.
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now
Which model should I choose?
That means it’s between the EX and the SX. The EX offers the same V6 engine, but it doesn’t include the navigation system, power-adjustable driver seat with memory, a powered passenger seat, or the added safety features of the surround-view camera and front parking sensor, which all come standard on the SX, as do a host of other extra features. That makes the SX the best value for your dollar.
MORE: 7 things to look for when buying a used car
"I’m earning
awesome rewards
every week, just for driving safe!”
Patricia W.
Reviewed on 5/28/2023
How to find affordable Kia Sorento SX insurance
In the 2020 model year, you have three trims to choose from if you want a V6. No matter which you go for, you need to ensure you’ve got it covered with solid
car insurance
, and Jerry
can help you find it fast!Jerry is your ultra-talented car insurance broker for life. No need to sit across from him at a desk: Jerry is an app! It takes less than a minute to sign up, and you’ll be presented with competitive rates from dozens of top providers.
And to ensure you always have the lowest rate, Jerry will send you new quotes every time your policy comes up for renewal, so you’re always getting the coverage you want at the best price. This level of service is why Jerry earned a 4.6/5 rating on the App Store and made it the top insurance app in the country.
“I love how easy it was for me, as someone who has an older beat-up truck, to get insurance without going through a lot of trouble. I would recommend anyone tryJerry, since it’s free!” —Melissa I.
RECOMMENDED
Thousands of customers saved on average $887/year on their car insurance with Jerry
This app is great, but the customer service is even better! Not to mention convenient! My husband and I got the lowest rate (much lower than the rates I was finding online through my own searches), quickly, and pretty much all through text message! Thank you so much for a hassle free experience👍
Gabriella R.
Find insurance savings
4.7/5 Rating on App Store
FAQs
Does the Kia Sorento SX come in V6?
No—Kia stopped offering the Sorento as a V6 after the 2020 model year. Prior to this, the Sorento SX came with a standard V6 from its release in 2011 through 2020.
Are V6 Sorentos reliable?
Yes—J.D. Power gives the Kia Sorento SX an 82/100 rating for quality and reliability.
Does the 2022 Sorento have AWD?
Yes—All Kia Sorentos have available AWD, but it’s a $1,800 option. Front-wheel drive is standard.
Are you overpaying for car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
4.7You might also be interested
