2026 Kia Sorento vs. 2025 Toyota Highlander

Brought to you by Crowley Kia

When you're shopping for a 3-row midsize SUV, you want versatility, comfort, modern tech and a sense of value. Here at Crowley Kia, we believe the 2026 Kia Sorento offers a compelling package — and when you compare it head-to-head with the 2025 Toyota Highlander, the advantages are clear.

First Look

🚗 Kia Sorento

Sleek, modern design, bold front end, high-tech interior. The 2026 model brings upgraded styling, available large panoramic display, captain's chairs option, and strong powertrains.

🚗 Toyota Highlander

Reliable, well-known nameplate with solid reputation. The 2025 Highlander brings a turbo-4 engine, three-row seating and the comfort/family-friendly image Toyota delivers.

Specification Showdown

Here's a side-by-side comparison of key specs for these two SUVs so you can see how they stack up.

Specification	2026 Kia Sorento	2025 Toyota Highlander
Engine / Standard Power	2.5 L 4-cyl GDI: 191 hp (base)	2.4 L 4-cyl turbo: 265 hp
Higher-end Power	Up to 281 hp in X-Pro turbo version	265 hp max as standard turbo version
EPA Fuel Economy	Example EX trim: 20 / 29 city/hwy MPG	Example LE: 21 / 28 city/hwy MPG
Towing Capacity	Up to 4,500 lb in X-Pro (trail version)	Up to 5,000 lb (gas version)
Seating / Cargo	Standard 3-row for up to 7 (with 2nd-row bench) and available captain chairs	3-row for up to 8 (depending on trim)
Starting MSRP*	~$32,190 for LX base	~$40,320 for LE base
Warranty	10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty (industry-leading)	Standard brand warranty (typically 3-yr/36k basic)

*Starting price varies by region, destination charges, trim. Please check local inventory.

Why the Kia Sorento Pulls Ahead

Better value for money. With a substantially lower starting MSRP and a rich set of features even in the base trims, the Sorento gives you more for your dollar.
Strong power and option for turbo. While the Highlander's 265 hp is solid, the Sorento offers up to 281 hp in its turbo version and still gives a strong base engine.
Warranty advantage. Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty offers greater peace of mind than what typically comes with the competition.
Modern tech & styling. The 2026 Sorento brings an updated look, large display options, fancy interior upgrades (captain chairs 2nd row, panoramic displays) and strong versatility for families.
Versatility in trims and drivetrain. The Sorento offers multiple trim levels including rugged-style "X-Pro", various AWD versions, so you can tailor the vehicle to your lifestyle.

Where the Highlander Still Holds Ground

Strong brand reputation and resale. Toyota's nameplate is widely respected for reliability, resale value, and dealer network.
Generous towing capacity. The Highlander can tow up to 5,000 lb in its gas configuration (depending on equipment).
Well-appointed family interior. The Highlander has multiple trims, three rows, comfortable interior and a familiar interface that many buyers appreciate.

The Bottom Line

If you're shopping for a three-row midsize SUV and you care about modern features, value, strong warranty and a vehicle that stands out — the 2026 Kia Sorento is the smart choice. At Crowley Kia, we're excited to showcase how Sorento gives you more for less, and still doesn't compromise on capability or family-friendly design.

While the 2025 Toyota Highlander is a capable SUV with a solid reputation, when you compare spec-for-spec, feature-for-feature, and ownership value, Sorento holds a compelling edge.

Ready to See It in Person?

Swing by Crowley Kia in Victorville, CA. We'll let you test-drive both vehicles (or at least compare side-by-side) so you can feel the difference yourself—the seats, the ride, the tech, the overall "wow" factor. Let's get you into the best 3-row SUV for your family and lifestyle.