Kia Sorento vs Toyota Highlander | Compare 3-Row SUVs near Dothan, AL

Two names consistently rise to the top: the Kia Sorento and the Toyota Highlander. While both are commendable, a closer look reveals why the 2026 Kia Sorento presents a more compelling, versatile, and confidence-inspiring package for today's driver.

Vehicle Comparison

 2026 Kia Sorento2026 Toyota Highlander
Engine configurationinline 4Inline 4
Drivetrainfront wheel driveall wheel drive
Transmission8-speed automatic8-speed shiftable automatic
Tire size235/60R18235/65R18
Seating Capacity77
Fuel Capacity17.7 gal.17.9 gal.

Power and Performance: Versatility Meets Efficiency

Under the hood is where these two SUVs truly diverge in philosophy near Enterprise, Alabama. The Sorento offers a range of powertrains to match your lifestyle, while the Highlander leans heavily on a single, efficient option.

2026 Kia Sorento Powertrains

The Sorento empowers you to choose the perfect engine for your needs near Coffee County.

  • Standard 2.5L GDI Engine: A capable and efficient 191 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque.
  • Available Turbocharged 2.5L GDI Engine: A robust 281 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque for confident acceleration and towing around Andalusia.
  • Sorento Hybrid: A frugal and powerful combination delivering 227 combined system horsepower.
  • Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): The ultimate in efficiency with an estimated 261 combined system horsepower and over 30 miles of all-electric range.
  • Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive is standard, with available All-Wheel Drive across all powertrains.

Shop Kia Sorento specials here.

2026 Toyota Highlander Powertrains

The Highlander's approach is more focused, which may limit your choices on Ozark roads.

  • Standard Hybrid Powertrain: A 2.5L four-cylinder hybrid system generating a total of 243 horsepower.
  • Available Turbocharged Hybrid Powertrain: A more powerful option producing up to 362 horsepower for enhanced performance.
  • Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive is standard, with available All-Wheel Drive on hybrid models.

Interior Space, Comfort, and Technology

Inside the cabin, both vehicles focus on family comfort, but the Sorento often delivers a more modern and feature-rich experience.

Seating and Cargo

  • Kia Sorento: Seats seven passengers standard. Offers up to 75.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space with the second and third rows folded.
  • Toyota Highlander: Can be configured for seven or eight passengers. Provides a slightly larger maximum cargo capacity of 84.3 cubic feet.

Infotainment and Features

  • Kia Sorento: Features a standard 12.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen with navigation and seamless smartphone integration. Available premium features include a 12-speaker Bose® audio system and a panoramic sunroof.
  • Toyota Highlander: Equipped with a standard 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system. An available 11-speaker JBL audio system and panoramic glass roof are offered on higher trims.

Safety and Warranty: The Confidence Factor

This is where Kia pulls decisively ahead, offering unparalleled long-term peace of mind for Dothan drivers.

Safety Ratings and Features

  • Both SUVs are expected to earn top marks from safety organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA.
  • Each comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technology, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and Smart Cruise Control (SCC).

Warranty Coverage

  • Kia Sorento: Backed by Kia's legendary warranty package, including a 5-Year/60,000-Mile Basic Warranty and a massive 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty.
  • Toyota Highlander: Covered by Toyota's standard warranty, which is 3-Year/36,000-Mile Basic and 5-Year/60,000-Mile Powertrain.

Value and Cost of Ownership

From the initial purchase to long-term retention, the Sorento makes a smart financial case.

Pricing and Depreciation

  • MSRP: The Kia Sorento has a lower starting price, with gas models beginning in the low-$30,000s, while the Highlander's hybrid-standard approach starts in the mid-$40,000s.
  • Depreciation: The Kia Sorento is estimated to retain approximately 47 percent of its value after three years, showing strong and competitive resale value.

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Value

  • CPO Sorento: A Certified Pre-Owned Kia Sorento offers tremendous value, typically priced significantly lower than new models while still benefiting from extended warranty coverage under the Kia CPO program.
  • CPO Highlander: Toyota's CPO vehicles are known for their reliability but often command a higher price premium in the used market.

Towing and Capability

  • Kia Sorento: The turbocharged gasoline model offers a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
  • Toyota Highlander: The standard hybrid model has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, while the available turbocharged hybrid can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Find Your 2026 Kia Sorento at Enterprise Kia

Your next adventure starts at our dealership near Troy. Check out the links below for your shopping convenience. Moreover, we have a vast used inventory for drivers to explore.

Browse our selection of new vehicles to see the available trims and colors.

View Our New Kia Inventory

Looking for a great deal? Explore our special offers on new models.

Check Out New Kia Specials

If a pre-owned vehicle fits your budget, our used inventory serving Opp, AL, is filled with quality options.

Browse Used SUVs

Have a current vehicle to trade? Get a fast, fair offer online.

Get Your Instant Trade-In Offer

Ready to move forward? Our simple online application gets the process started.

Start Your Finance Application

Come see for yourself why the 2026 Kia Sorento is the right SUV for your family. We look forward to welcoming you.

Get Directions to Enterprise Kia

How Can We Help?

* Indicates a required field

  1. Enterprise Kia

    1509 E. Park Ave
    Enterprise, AL 36330

    • Sales: (334) 417-4444
Loading Map...

Get in Touch

  • Contact our Sales Department at: (334) 417-4444
  • Monday8:00AM 7:00PM
  • Tuesday8:00AM 7:00PM
  • Wednesday8:00AM 7:00PM
  • Thursday8:00AM 7:00PM
  • Friday8:00AM 7:00PM
  • Saturday8:00AM 6:00PM
  • SundayClosed