Drivers likely agree that safety is paramount. Peace of mind makes navigating roads and terrain more enjoyable and less stressful. But consumers also consider style, comfort, convenience, performance, price, and other factors when buying a vehicle. Automakers strive to meet those myriad desires, with varying degrees of success.

And with the 2021 Sorento, Kia offers an attractive option in the crowded crossover segment. So, how does it fare? And, most important, is it safe? 

The 2021 Kia Sorento at a glance 

Kia hyped the 2021 Sorento with a splashy ad campaign that saw the SUV travel cross-country to New York City for Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2021, Automotive News reported. One would hope a car making such an entrance would offer substance with its song-and-dance.

And the 2021 Sorento delivered.

Kia completely redesigned its three-row SUV. It boasts a more angular, rugged body. And the interior sports “slick digital interfaces and snazzier styling throughout,” Car and Driver reports.

The 2021 Sorento also offers three engine choices, along with a hybrid powertrain. The new version improves its fuel economy, too, and incorporates a tremendous number of high-tech features. Expect a long list of safety features as well. 

Kia lists the Sorento’s MSRP between $29,390 and $40,590.

The Kia Sorento’s safety features 

The 2021 Kia Sorento comes standard with nearly a dozen advanced safety features, Consumer Reports shows. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection are just a few. Expect lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist, too. A rearview camera and antilock brakes offer additional safety. Traction control and stability control round out the list.

The Sorento also offers two optional safety features. They’re blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning.

Is the 2021 Sorento safe? 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have yet to test the 2021 Sorento. But the 2020 model’s scores bode well for the latest version.

After the NHTSA put the 2020 Kia Sorento to the test, it awarded the vehicle a five-star safety rating. The IIHS followed suit. It named the 2020 Sorento a Top Safety Pick. However, last year’s model missed nabbing the highest designation — Top Safety Pick+ — thanks to some trims’ headlights. All trim levels except the SXL and SX with the touring package received poor headlight ratings because they don’t offer LEDs, curve-adaptive lights, and high-beam assist.

Judging by the 2020 Sorento’s safety scores, we think it’s safe to say the updated version will score as well as or better than the previous model. We’ll update you as soon as the new safety ratings become available.