Kia seems to have found its niche in the crossover segment, and the lineup is only improving as the brand welcomes the new, second-generation 2027 Telluride. You can find the new Kia Telluride for sale near Minnetonka right here at Lupient Kia Brooklyn Park. Still, it’s not the only option for drivers who enjoy the value, performance, and utility of a three-row Kia SUV.
The midsize Kia Sorento shares the Telluride’s three-row design, but represents a smaller option that’s designed to maximize efficiency with its downsized dimensions and an optional plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain. Let’s walk through a few of the other key differences between the two midsize crossovers and learn how Kia has quietly created one of the most well-rounded lineups in today’s market.
Performance and Efficiency
The 2027 Telluride offers half as many engine options as the Sorento, but sheer selection isn’t the only factor to consider when it comes to the goods under the hood. The base Sorento is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-four that produces 191 hp, which is enough muscle to move the midsize SUV down the road, but those looking for a little extra oomph can always opt for the turbocharged take on Kia’s 2.5-liter I-4, which leverages the power of forced induction to add nearly 100 hp to the Sorento’s bottom line.
The entry-level 2027 Telluride also employs a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder design, closely matching the optional engine for the Sorento, with 274 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque to its name. The redesigned Telluride gets off to an early lead, but things become a little more competitive once hybrid technology enters the picture.
Both of Kia’s three-row SUVs can be equipped with electrically-assisted powertrains, with the Telluride and Sorento both offering a traditional hybrid setup and the latter adding a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option to the mix. The 2027 Telluride features a hybrid version of the 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, which produces 329 hp, thanks to the addition of two electric motors and a battery.
The Sorento relies on a much smaller 1.6-liter hybrid design that’s limited to 227 hp, although it is a model of efficiency, offering 37 MPG combined. The Telluride Hybrid won’t be too far behind as you ride around Minnetonka, getting around 35 MPG combined. Still, the Sorento does set itself apart with a PHEV powertrain that offers 74 MPGe and an all-electric driving range of 30 miles, courtesy of a 13.8 kWh battery.
Ultimately, the differences between the Telluride and Sorento powertrain lineups come down to a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking for an athletic SUV that’ll never leave you hurting for power, the 2027 Telluride is pretty tough to ignore with its standard turbocharged engine and 329 hp hybrid option. If, on the other hand, you’re looking to reduce your visits to the gas station and keep a little extra cash in your pocket, the Sorento makes a strong case with the sort of efficiency that only a PHEV can provide.
Those looking to put in a little work—or just haul their adventure gear—should also note that the Telluride bests its Kia cousin in terms of towing, with a maximum capacity of 5,000 lbs versus 4,500 lbs for the Sorento. The difference is especially drastic when comparing the base engines, with the Sorento delivering 2,000 lbs to the Telluride’s 5,000 lbs.
Off-Road Options
The Kia Telluride and Sorento embody everything there is to love about the crossover segment, balancing their car-like efficiency and handling with the added utility and go-anywhere attitude of a traditional SUV. In fact, Kia offers off-road versions of both models in the form of their X-Line and X-Pro trims.
The X-Line is more of an appearance-related upgrade that sees the SUVs gain roof rails, exclusive wheels, and restyled trim elements. However, it also adds some important off-road gear, including Kia’s Torque Vectoring All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, all-terrain tires, and a modest suspension lift. While the X-Line trims allow the Telluride and Sorento to look every bit the off-road adventure rig, it’s the X-Pro trims that really up the ante.
The 2025 Telluride X-Pro was already one of the more well-equipped off-road models in the three-row segment, with its enhanced traction control system, all-terrain tires, and off-road-tuned suspension. However, Kia really doubled down for the 2027 model. The raised suspension gives the Telluride a little extra ground clearance, and while that’s sure to come in handy when trying to dodge off-road hazards like rocks and logs, a new exterior camera system with an underbody POV allows you to better avoid such obstacles altogether.
It’s a clever combination, but the Telluride X-Pro’s most notable edition would have to be its electronic limited-slip differential (E-LSD). Minnetonka drivers know that traction is everything when you’re venturing off the beaten path or dealing with harsh winter weather, and the E-LSD allows the Telluride to get a grip in even the slickest road conditions.
The Sorento’s range-topping X-Pro SX Prestige trim includes a long list of premium features, from leather upholstery and heated front-row and second-row seats to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and innovative safety technologies like a digital rearview mirror. Still, it also adds plenty of gear that’s sure to prove useful when venturing onto the road less traveled.
The SUV’s arsenal isn’t quite as expansive as the one you’ll find on the Telluride X-Pro, but the Sorento X-Pro still packs considerable value with its 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires and a 115-volt household-style power outlet that’s perfect for charging devices, tools, and emergency equipment when you’re miles away from the nearest wall plug. That said, it’s hard to recommend the Sorento over the Telluride for those seeking a reliable off-road partner, as the larger model simply outshines the Sorento in a few key areas.
Cargo and Passenger Space
The Kia Telluride and Sorento both qualify as three-row models, but that doesn’t really tell the whole story. Despite the similar designation, the Telluride provides an extra seat and some more generous dimensions, especially when it comes to those sitting in the way back. The Telluride’s spacious third row is equipped to handle three passengers and, like the Sorento, can either be optioned with a second-row bench seat or a set of captain’s chairs that reduce the total capacity down to seven.
The captain’s chairs also make it a little easier to access the third row, and the separation can go a long way towards promoting harmony amongst quarreling kids on longer rides. The Sorento’s back seat is designed with two riders in mind. While this could be a dealbreaker for those with quickly growing families, the reduced capacity actually means a more comfortable journey for riders who have been relegated to the third row.
While the Telluride and Sorento feature a similarly sized front row, the dimensions differ as you begin to move towards the back of the cabin. It’s not surprising to learn that the larger SUV offers slightly more head, leg, and shoulder room in the second and third rows when compared to the Sorento, but it’s certainly an important factor to keep in mind when comparing the two models. The new second-gen Telluride has seen a bit of a growth spurt, and it offers improved second-row headroom and class-leading legroom.
The Telluride continues to surpass the Sorento’s storage space with a maximum capacity of 86.9 cu.ft. in the non-hybrid models. The Sorento isn’t too far behind at 75.5 cu.ft., but that extra 11.4 cu.ft. could make all the difference for those who are regularly testing the limits of their trunk space.
Kia has packed its three-row SUVs with plenty of clever storage solutions, from cubbies and cupholders to seatback storage and a center console. Upper trims can be equipped with LED interior lighting, allowing every driver to curate the vibe. Wireless smartphone charging pads will keep everyone’s devices charged up and ready to go as you complete errands around Minnetonka.
Kia’s three-row models double as a road-faring oasis with second-row window sunshades and sound-absorbing door window glass that make for a tranquil interior even when you’re stuck in rush hour traffic on a hot summer day. An available hands-free liftgate also makes it easy to access the SUVs’ spacious trunks, and both models come with raised roof rails that can be used to add rooftop storage boxes, ski racks, and other helpful storage solutions.
Decide for Yourself at Lupient Kia Brooklyn Park
The Telluride and Sorento offer a similar slate of comfort, convenience, and infotainment features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, premium audio systems, automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and more. The larger Telluride can also be upgraded with some decidedly high-end features, but it’s hard to find fault with either model, especially when you consider the relatively low starting price.
For all of their differences, the Telluride and Sorento are remarkably similar when it comes to standard safety tech. The three-row SUVs are packed with all of the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) today’s drivers have come to expect from Kia, including blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning, forward collision mitigation, lane keeping assistance, and even adaptive cruise control.
Upper trims add all the modern tech you’ll need to confidently commute around Minnetonka, including a surround-view camera system, a blind-spot camera, a blind-spot intervention system, and a Highway Driving Assist feature that enhances the standard adaptive cruise control system. This comprehensive suite of ADAS has allowed the Telluride and Sorento to log some impressive safety scores.
If you’ve been considering a three-row model and are always on the hunt for a good deal, it might be time to stop by Lupient Kia Brooklyn Park. With the all-new 2027 Telluride and the proven 2026 Sorento, there’s something for everyone here at our dealership. We’re here to walk you through every step of the buying process, from answering any questions you might have about the Telluride and Sorento to accompanying you on a test drive, filling out all of the important paperwork, and helping to craft a financing plan that works for your budget.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
Categories
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.