When you’re on the hunt for your next family car, we know you have a few non-negotiables. You need space, room for growth, and flexibility. The 2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid and the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid can deliver those non-negotiables and then some. So, which SUV goes above and beyond for you?
Oxnard, Thousand Oak, and Simi Valley, CA, drivers can find out by reading the comparison below brought to you by the team at Kirby KIA of Ventura!
TORQUE
HEATED SEATS
TOUCHSCREEN SIZE
Sure, you need a large SUV to transport your family, whether it’s to football practice, to school, or to a friend’s house. Your next family car can also be used for adventure! The Sorento Hybrid and the Highlander Hybrid have the power and endurance to make your next family vacation one for the scrapbook.
The Kia and the Toyota have different sized engines under their respective hoods. You’ll find a 1.6L turbocharged engine at the core of the Kia and a 2.5L engine in the Toyota. Despite this difference, both models produce over 200 horsepower for some energizing thrills!
When it comes to torque, the Kia takes the cake. It expels 258 lb-ft of torque compared to the Toyota’s 175 lb-ft of torque. What’s the benefit of more torque? Climbing steep hills or towing cargo will feel more effortless in the Sorento Hybrid. Go on, break boundaries on your next vacay!
As a parent, it’s crucial that you’re able to roll with the punches and keep on going even after a hiccup or two. Kia and Toyota know you need a ride that’s as reliable as you. For that reason, the Sorento Hybrid and the Highlander Hybrid came to play.
Both models infuse hybrid elements into their powertrains, which makes it easier for them to go long distances on a single tank. Which one can go farther?
- Kia Sorento Hybrid: EPA-estimated 39 city/35 highway MPG*
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid: EPA-estimated 36 city/35 highway MPG
Long distance-wise, these SUVs achieve the same mileage. However, if your next family car will also be your daily commuter, you’ll enjoy the Kia’s additional city miles that will benefit you in stop-and-go traffic.
A vehicle that provides prowess and longevity is a major winner. If it’s also intuitive and dedicated to your safety? Now that right there is a keeper. Both the Kia and the Toyota make your safety a priority, but which model offers more driver-assistance features right off the bat?
Kia Drive Wise and Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ are the standard safety suites on the Sorento Hybrid and the Highlander Hybrid. Each suite is made up of several driver-assistance aids that will give you peace of mind. These SUVs even share a few features in common:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Following Assist, and more!
You’ll find both models have cruise control systems as well: Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control on the Toyota and Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go-Curve on the Kia. The Kia’s feature uses navigation to help predict curves in your course, and in turn, helps reduce the cruising speed at the curve and helps return to your previous speed setting upon exiting.
Beyond driver assistance, the Kia uses its intuition to help keep you and your precious cargo safe. It has several unique safety features that are unavailable on the Toyota, including:
- Highway Driving Assist
- Driver Attention Warning with Leading Vehicle Departure Alert
- Safe Exit Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert with Ultrasonic Sensors
These features will ensure you’re never caught off guard while driving or after arriving at your destination.
Once you’ve dropped off your kids at school and it’s just you in the cabin, it’s time to partake in some me time. Adjust your seat to your liking, turn on your preferred entertainment, and let yourself drift into your personal oasis.
Technology-wise, the Kia and the Toyota are quite similar. They share these integrations in common:
- 6-speaker audio system
- Bluetooth®
- Apple CarPlay®
- Android Auto™
Where they differ is in their standard infotainment screen size. The Sorento Hybrid comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation and Kia Connect. The Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, equips an 8-inch audio multimedia display.
The Kia’s larger screen means better visibility for you. You’ll never miss the name of a song, a navigational command, or a text message notification in this SUV!
When it comes to seating, the Kia may be better for drivers of all shapes and sizes since it features a 10-way power driver’s seat with 2-way lumbar support and an 8-way power passenger seat. You and your copilot can sink into ultimate comfort at the push of a button! Did we mention that heated seats also come standard?
On the other hand, the Toyota comes with an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and a 4-way manually adjustable passenger seat. With fewer movements to make, you’ll have to settle for a position. Plus, heated front seats are available on the Toyota.
The 2023 Sorento Hybrid and the 2023 Highlander Hybrid would both make excellent additions to your family. However, with its greater city mileage, advanced safety suite, and more premium interior, we believe the Kia is the right choice for you.
Do you agree? Visit Kirby KIA of Ventura near Oxnard, Thousand Oak, and Simi Valley, CA, today for a test drive.
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new 2023 Sorento Hybrid for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
Explore our extensive new inventory, receive an estimate on your trade-in, apply for credit or contact us to schedule your in-person test drive using the quick links here.
Shop Kia Sorento Hybrid Value Your Trade Apply for Financing Schedule a Test Drive*EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and your vehicle’s condition.