2026 Kia Sorento Trims Explained: LX, S, EX, X-Pro and Hybrid

The 2026 Kia Sorento comes in a lot of versions, from the value-focused LX to the rugged X-Pro, plus a Sorento Hybrid. That is great for choice, but it can make the lineup hard to sort out. Here is what each 2026 Sorento trim adds, how the Hybrid fits in, and which one makes sense for a High Desert family.

What’s new for the 2026 Sorento

Kia describes the 2026 interior as largely carried over, with a few updates worth knowing:

• Terrain Mode is now standard on AWD models
• A new leather-trimmed steering wheel with hands-on detection
• Glossy black bumper and grille trim on X-Line and X-Pro models
• A new EX Premium Package with a panoramic roof, Bose premium audio and second-row captain’s chairs

2026 Kia Sorento trims, one by one

LX

The LX is the starting point and seats seven. For 2026, Kia added hands-on detection and a leather-trimmed steering wheel as standard. It is a strong pick if you want third-row space for occasional use without paying for features you will not use.

S

The S is offered in FWD or AWD and also seats seven. Kia removed built-in navigation and Wi-Fi from the S for 2026, so it relies on your phone for maps. It makes sense for families who want AWD availability at a step above the LX.

EX

The EX comes in FWD or AWD with seven seats standard. The new EX Premium Package adds a panoramic roof, Bose premium audio and second-row captain’s chairs, which turns it into a six-seater with an easy path to the third row.

SX

The SX adds Bose audio, a heated steering wheel, rear integrated sunshades and an electrochromic rearview mirror with HomeLink as standard for 2026. Six-passenger seating is available.

X-Line and X-Pro

X-Line versions come as the EX, SX and SX Prestige, and the X-Pro is offered as the SX Prestige. Both get new glossy black exterior trim for 2026 and seat six. Kia lists the X-Pro SX Prestige AWD with up to 4,500 lbs of towing capacity, with the required equipment.

Where the Sorento Hybrid fits

The Sorento Hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with a hybrid system for a combined 232 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, according to Kia. The EPA rates the 2026 Sorento Hybrid FWD at 37 MPG combined.* That makes it the pick for families who rack up miles around Victorville, Hesperia and Apple Valley or make regular drives down the hill.

New for 2026, the Hybrid EX switches to a standard second-row bench, and the X-Line SX Prestige adds dark gun metal and black high-gloss exterior trim with black 19-inch wheels. The Hybrid is not built for heavy towing, so if you pull a camper or boat, look at the X-Pro SX Prestige AWD instead.

Which 2026 Sorento is right for you?

• Seven seats with the essentials: LX or S
• An all-around family pick: EX, especially with the Premium Package if you want captain’s chairs
• Fuel economy: Sorento Hybrid EX FWD, at an EPA-estimated 37 MPG combined*
• Towing and dirt roads: X-Pro SX Prestige AWD
• Top-level comfort and tech: SX Prestige

Still deciding between Kia’s three-row SUVs? Read our Telluride vs Sorento vs Sportage comparison or our 2027 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid guide.

What else do High Desert shoppers ask about the Sorento?

What are the 2026 Kia Sorento trims?

The 2026 Sorento comes as the LX, S, EX, SX, X-Line (EX, SX and SX Prestige) and X-Pro SX Prestige, plus the Sorento Hybrid in EX, SX Prestige and X-Line SX Prestige trims.

What does the 2026 Sorento S include?

The S seats seven and is offered in FWD or AWD. For 2026, Kia removed built-in navigation and Wi-Fi from the S, so it uses your phone for navigation.

Does the Kia Sorento have captain’s chairs?

Yes. The new EX Premium Package adds second-row captain’s chairs, and six-passenger seating is available on the SX and standard on X-Line and X-Pro models.

What MPG does the 2026 Sorento Hybrid get?

The EPA rates the 2026 Sorento Hybrid FWD at 37 MPG combined. Kia lists 34 MPG combined for AWD versions of the 2027 Sorento Hybrid. Actual mileage will vary.

How much can a Kia Sorento tow?

Kia lists up to 4,500 lbs of towing on the X-Pro SX Prestige AWD with the required equipment. Kia lists 2,000 lbs for the 2027 Sorento Hybrid.

More from the Valley Hi Kia blog: model guides, comparisons, hybrid and EV tips and High Desert driving advice.