2020 Kia Sorento: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The biggest change for the 2020 Kia Sorento is a reshuffled V6 trim lineup: S became the value-focused V6 model, while EX was recast as a standalone trim. This was a light update rather than a redesign.

Shop 35 in stock at Carvana

About the 2020 Kia Sorento

3rd generation (2016-2020), final year; lightly updated after the 2019 refresh.

Kia positioned the 2020 Sorento as a right-sized three-row SUV for families who want extra seats without moving to a larger vehicle. Its core appeal is seven-passenger seating, a choice between a basic four-cylinder and a stronger V6, available AWD on most trims, and a cabin that can range from simple to fairly upscale. Compared with larger three-row SUVs, the Sorento emphasizes easier maneuverability and strong equipment value.

The 2020 Sorento is a seven-seat SUV ranging from the straightforward four-cylinder L and LX to better-equipped V6 trims. S combines the V6 with heated front seats and added safety features, EX brings leather, a panoramic sunroof, and a fuller safety suite, and SX tops the range with navigation, premium audio, wireless phone charging, and a surround-view camera.

What changed, by category

Trim lineup

Kia repositioned S as the entry V6 trim and recast EX as a standalone trim that took over the role of the former EX Sport. The EX Sport and Limited-SXL trim names were dropped.

Styling

Kia made small updates to the front and rear bumpers and lighting details.

Safety

Forward collision avoidance became standard on S. EX gained a broader standard safety suite, including adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, blind-spot collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance.

Tech and convenience

SX gained a standard surround-view camera and power-folding mirrors, plus an updated navigation and audio system with built-in modem connectivity. A power driver’s seat became standard on LX.

2020 Kia Sorento specs and features by trim

Feature	2020 Kia SorentoL4 in stock	2020 Kia SorentoS6 in stock	2020 Kia SorentoEX6 in stock	2020 Kia SorentoLX18 in stock	2020 Kia SorentoSX1 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, GDI, 2.4 Liter	V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter	V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter	4-Cyl, GDI, 2.4 Liter / V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter	V6, GDI, 3.3 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic	Automatic, 8-Spd	Automatic, 8-Spd	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Sportmatic / Automatic, 8-Spd	Automatic, 8-Spd
Drivetrain	FWD	AWD	AWD	FWD	AWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	22 mpg	19 mpg	19 mpg	19–22 mpg	19 mpg
MPG Highway	29 mpg	26 mpg	26 mpg	26–29 mpg	26 mpg
Horsepower	185 hp	290 hp	290 hp	185–290 hp	290 hp
Torque	178 lb-ft	252 lb-ft	252 lb-ft	178–252 lb-ft	252 lb-ft
Max Towing	2000 lb	5000 lb	5000 lb	2000 lb	5000 lb
Trunk/Cargo	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft	73 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	31.7 in	31.7 in	31.7 in	31.7 in	31.7 in
Seats	7	7	7	7	7
Doors	4	4	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Blindspot Sensors
Lane Departure Warning
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear View Camera
360 Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
LED Tail Lights
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Panorama Moon Roof
Power Close Liftgate/Trunk
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Rear Spoiler
Roof Rails
Entertainment & Electronics
LCD Instrument Cluster
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Smartphone Interface
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Rear Air Conditioning
Heated Front Seats
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

How the 2021 Kia Sorento compares

The 2021 Kia Sorento is a full redesign and the first year of its fourth generation. The headline change is Kia's new N3 platform, which gives this three-row SUV a longer wheelbase and more passenger and cargo room.

See the full 2021 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2020 Kia Sorento?

The biggest change is the V6 trim reshuffle. S became the value-focused V6 model, EX was recast as a standalone trim taking over the former EX Sport’s role, and the EX Sport and Limited-SXL names left the lineup.

Was the 2020 Kia Sorento redesigned?

No, the 2020 Kia Sorento was not redesigned. It remained part of the third generation and received trim, equipment, and minor appearance updates.

Did the 2020 Kia Sorento get a new engine or transmission?

No, the engines and transmissions carried over. Four-cylinder versions use a 2.4-liter engine with a six-speed automatic, while V6 versions use a 3.3-liter engine with an eight-speed automatic.

What became standard on the 2020 Sorento SX?

The 2020 Sorento SX gained a standard surround-view camera and power-folding mirrors. It also received an updated navigation and audio unit with built-in modem connectivity.

What changed on the 2020 Kia Sorento EX?

The 2020 Sorento EX became a standalone trim that effectively replaced the old EX Sport setup. Its standard equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, leather seating, a power liftgate, adaptive cruise control, and a broader collision-avoidance suite.

2020 Kia Sorento Reviews

What owners are saying about the 2020 Kia Sorento.

4.1

2020 Kia Sorento

(262 reviews)

5 stars (108)

4 stars (81)

3 stars (57)

2 stars (12)

1 star (4)

“Check engine light keeps coming on giving generic codes that don't say anything.”

DTDaniel T.
2020 Kia Sorento - FWD

“The Kia Sorento is strong, dependable, and fun to drive. It was affordable and technically has enough seating for my big family. My only complaint is the way the 2nd and 3rd row seating is set up. I have a big family and need all of the seating. It is hard to get in and out of the 3rd row. The 3rd row also doesn't have anchors for car seats.”

SJSean J.
2020 Kia Sorento - AWD

“I wish it was 2 inches lower to the ground with the top of the door at same ht. that it is now.”

DGDean G.
2020 Kia Sorento - FWD