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Toyota Highlander vs Kia Sorento: Which to Buy

Carummah Editorial
Last updated: November 4, 2026
Toyota Highlander vs Kia Sorento

Toyota Highlander starts at $46,270; the Kia Sorento starts at $31,990. Before taxes and fees, the Kia Sorento is $14,275 less. Toyota Highlander makes more power, 265 hp against 191 hp. The Toyota Highlander seats 8, the Kia Sorento seats 7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Toyota Highlander or the Kia Sorento cheaper?

The Kia Sorento costs less to start. Toyota Highlander: $46,270 plus $1,450 destination. Kia Sorento: $31,990 plus $1,455 destination. Taxes, title and registration are on top of both.

Which gets better fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander or the Kia Sorento?

The Toyota Highlander is rated 21/29 city/hwy, and the Kia Sorento is rated 23/31 city/hwy. Real-world results depend on how and where you drive.

How many people does each seat?

The Toyota Highlander seats 8. The Kia Sorento seats 7.

What are the trade-offs between the two?

Toyota Highlander: Exceptional predicted reliability and high resale value, though third row is less spacious than the Honda Pilot. Kia Sorento: Diverse powertrain lineup including Hybrid and Plug-in models, though third row and cargo space are smaller than most mid-size rivals.

Toyota Highlander is best for

Toyota Highlander is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who need room for six or seven. Its standout: exceptional predicted reliability and high resale value.

Kia Sorento is best for

Kia Sorento is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: diverse powertrain lineup including Hybrid and Plug-in models.

Spec-by-Spec Comparison

AttributeToyota HighlanderKia Sorento
Starting MSRP$46,270$31,990
MSRP + destination$47,720$33,445
Fuel economy / range21/29 city/hwy23/31 city/hwy
Horsepower265 hp191 hp
Seating87
Body typeMid-Size SUVMid-Size SUV
Powertrains2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder, Hybrid2.5L 4-Cylinder, 2.5L Turbocharged, 1.6L Hybrid, 1.6L Plug-in Hybrid

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