Is the 2021 Kia Sorento Large Enough For Families?
The 2021 Kia Sorento is a hot three-row SUV right now. It just got one heck of a new look to better compete against other mid-size rivals like the Toyota Highlander. However, is the Kia Sorento large enough to tote your family around?
Is the 2021 Kia Sorento a good family SUV?
Yes, the 2021 Kia Sorento is a good family SUV. We can’t knock it because the Sorento is a safe, reliable option. However, it’s smaller than the Kia Telluride, so how many kids can really fit in there?
The Kia Sorento offers seating for up to seven passengers. So, the second-row offers threw seats while the third row only has two seats. But captain’s chairs are available in the second row as well. So, if you only need six to seven seats, this is a good option, but go with the Telluride for an eighth spot.
According to Cars.com, children’s seats fit pretty well in the Sorento. Latch seats, rear-facing convertible, forward-facing convertible, infant seats, and booster seats all fit in the second row without any problems.
However, the third row can be challenging to access. There is a one-touch button that automatically slides the second-row forward, but it doesn’t work with a child seat installed. Also, the space between the second and third row is narrow, and booster seats are tight back there.
Kia Sorento cargo space
The 2021 Kia Sorento is a little bigger than previous models. It is .4-inches longer than the 2020 model. It’s 66.9-inches tall and 74.8-inches wide with a 110.8-inch wheelbase. So, there should be a little more legroom.
Behind the third-row seats, the Kia Sorento offers 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space with up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space total. According to The Car Connection, this is less cargo space than rivals have to offer.
For example, the Toyota Highlander has 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats with up to 84.3 cubic feet total. But Kia said the Sorento is more focused on passengers’ room in each row.
AutoBlog noted that the Sorento two-inches behind the Telluride in leg space for the third row and is three-inches behind in shoulder room for the second row. Also, only two medium-sized bags should fit behind the third row, limiting how much families can take on vacation with them.
Is the Kia Sorento comfortable?
Families need both space and comfort for their vehicles. They will probably spend a lot of time road tripping together. Edmunds shared that the second and third-row both have a fair amount of legroom for the class.
The interior quality varies based on which trim level you choose, but the seats are comfortable and provide enough space for adults. However, the third-row seats are mounted low to the floor. This could put your knees at an awkwardly high position, despite being a significant improvement from the 2020 model.
The 2021 Kia Sorento offers a smooth ride, for the most part. Potholes and train tracks can be felt. Also, the cabin is quieter than rivals. Wind noise can be heard, though. The engine noise is also nicely subdued for a comfortable ride.
