2017 Kia Sorento: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The biggest change for the 2017 Kia Sorento is the arrival of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This is otherwise a light update, with wider access to driver-assistance features and added equipment rather than a redesign or new engines.

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About the 2017 Kia Sorento

3rd generation (2016-2020), second model year, before the 2019 facelift.

Kia positioned the Sorento as a getaway-ready midsize SUV that could cover a lot of family roles without feeling stripped down. Its appeal was breadth: two-row and three-row versions, three engine choices, a quieter and more upscale cabin than many mainstream rivals, and a wide spread from simple value trims to near-luxury versions. For most shoppers, the Sorento’s edge was feature value and comfort rather than maximum interior size or rugged image.

The L is the straightforward two-row model, while the LX adds everyday family conveniences and covers a broader mix of engines, seating layouts, and AWD. The EX has a more comfort-focused cabin with leather, heated front seats, and a 7-inch touchscreen. The V6-powered SX adds navigation and premium audio, while the Limited-SXL tops the range with Nappa leather, upgraded headlights, and a full driver-assistance suite.

What changed, by category

Powertrain controls

Turbocharged EX models gained steering-wheel paddle shifters. The three-engine lineup and 6-speed automatic transmission otherwise carried over.

Tech

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay joined the Sorento range. EX models received a standard 7-inch UVO 3.0 touchscreen with both systems, while the LX trim’s USB ports moved from standard to optional.

Safety

Automatic emergency braking and related driver-assistance features reached more trims through new option packages. Blind-spot sensors became standard on EX, while the Limited-SXL made lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and a surround-view camera standard.

Styling and equipment

Roof rails moved from standard to optional on LX, EX, SX, and Limited-SXL. The Limited-SXL also made HID headlights with lights that turn into curves standard.

2017 Kia Sorento specs and features by trim

Feature	2017 Kia SorentoL2 in stock	2017 Kia SorentoEX9 in stock	2017 Kia SorentoLX15 in stock	2017 Kia SorentoSX1 in stock	2017 Kia SorentoLimited-SXL2 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, GDI, 2.4 Liter	V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter / 4-Cyl, Turbo, GDI, 2.0 Liter	4-Cyl, GDI, 2.4 Liter / V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter	V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter	V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter
Transmission	Auto, 6-Spd OD Sptmatc	Auto, 6-Spd OD Sptmatc	Auto, 6-Spd OD Sptmatc	Auto, 6-Spd OD Sptmatc	Auto, 6-Spd OD Sptmatc
Drivetrain	FWD	FWD / AWD	FWD	AWD	AWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	21 mpg	18–19 mpg	18–21 mpg	18 mpg	18 mpg
MPG Highway	28 mpg	25 mpg	25–28 mpg	25 mpg	25 mpg
Horsepower	185 hp	240–290 hp	185–290 hp	290 hp	290 hp
Torque	178 lb-ft	252–260 lb-ft	178–252 lb-ft	252 lb-ft	252 lb-ft
Max Towing	2000 lb	3500 lb	2000 lb	5000 lb	5000 lb
Trunk/Cargo	38.8 cu-ft	38.8 cu-ft	38.8 cu-ft	11.3 cu-ft	11.3 cu-ft
Rear Legroom			31.7 in	31.7 in	31.7 in
Seats	5	7	7	7	7
Doors	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Automatic Headlights
Automatic Leveling Headlights
Blindspot Sensors
Lane Departure Warning
Park Assist
Rear View Camera
360 Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
LED Tail Lights
Panorama Moon Roof
Power Close Liftgate/Trunk
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
LCD Instrument Cluster
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Touch Screen Monitor
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Folding Rear Seat
Heated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Memory Driver's Seat
Power Driver Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Rear Window Shades
Remote Start
Third Row Seat
Ventilated Front Seats

How the 2018 Kia Sorento compares

The 2018 Kia Sorento was mostly a carryover, and its main lineup-wide change was improved headlamp performance. Kia also revised the front headrests for comfort and adjusted equipment on the L, LX, and EX trims.

See the full 2018 changes

Frequently asked questions

Is the 2017 Kia Sorento a redesign?

No. The 2017 Sorento is the second model year of the generation introduced for 2016, so its body, structure, engines, and transmissions carry over. The meaningful updates center on phone connectivity, safety-feature access, and trim equipment.

Does the 2017 Kia Sorento have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto arrived in the 2017 Sorento range, with both standard on the EX’s 7-inch touchscreen and included with the 8-inch navigation systems in the SX and Limited-SXL.

Did the 2017 Kia Sorento get automatic emergency braking?

Yes, but it was not standard across the entire lineup. Automatic emergency braking reached more versions through option packages and was standard on the Limited-SXL as part of its driver-assistance suite.

Did the 2017 Kia Sorento get a new engine?

No. The 2017 engine lineup carried over with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, and a 3.3-liter V6, all paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Turbocharged EX models did gain steering-wheel paddle shifters.

Is the 2017 Kia Sorento meaningfully different from the 2016 model?

Yes, but the differences are modest. The 2017 model adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, broadens access to automatic emergency braking, gives the EX more standard equipment, and makes the Limited-SXL’s driver-assistance and premium features standard.

2017 Kia Sorento Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2017 Kia Sorento.

4.2

2017 Kia Sorento

(546 reviews)

5 stars (242)

4 stars (212)

3 stars (72)

2 stars (19)

1 star (1)

“Has a lot of room and very comfortable back seat for passengers. Love the 3rd row for the little ones.”

RARoxanne A.
2017 Kia Sorento - FWD

“The Kia Sorento is a very dependable car and a great family vehicle. The second row is a little smaller than expected, but it is okay for a small family.”

JHJoshua H.
2017 Kia Sorento - FWD

“The Sorrento is large and comfortable, without being as unwieldy as a large SUV. Driving manners are car-like, but with a large turning circle. Suspension motions are not dampened as well as more refined vehicles. 360 cameras are a great feature - especially in city parking. Radar cruise and cooled seats are great for long road trips. Mileage is ok, even with the V6, yielding low 20's with a heavy foot.”

TOTodd O.
2017 Kia Sorento - AWD