Three-Row SUV Comparison: 2020 Kia Sorento Vs. 2020 Ford Explorer

2020 Kia Sorento Vs. 2020 Ford Explorer

If you're in the market for a new three-row crossover or SUV for your family, two options that may jump out at you are the 2020 Kia Sorento and 2020 Ford Explorer. These popular models are updated for 2020 and both offer seating for up to seven occupants in three rows.

With expansive cargo holds and available all-wheel drive (AWD), these two mid-size SUVs share some similarities. But let's look deeper to see how they compare in key areas that matter most to drivers. We hope that by the conclusion of this comparison review, you'll have a good idea of which of these models you prefer -- and schedule a tour and test drive.

Starting with the 2020 Kia Sorento, we find that this mid-size crossover utility vehicle, or CUV, blends a sleek and sporty design with standard three-row seating for seven passengers. Thanks to its unibody construction and front-wheel drive (FWD) architecture, the Sorento provides a smooth, car-like ride.

If you plan on regularly hauling a full load of passengers, the Sorento has you covered. It boasts a roomy passenger area, and its second and third rows fold down seamlessly, letting you switch to cargo-hauling mode in just seconds. The Sorento's split-folding second- and third-row seats make it easy to accommodate both passengers and cargo.

Now that we've covered some of the basics of the 2020 Kia Sorento, let's see how this crossover SUV stacks up against Ford's latest Explorer SUV. The sales specialists here at Kingdom Kia are available if you have any questions about the new Sorento and how it compares to any of its nearest competitors.

Comparing Kia's New Sorento & the 2020 Ford Explorer

The 2020 Kia Sorento is a highly versatile and affordable new crossover SUV. But what about the 2020 Ford Explorer? This popular mid-size SUV from Ford was redesigned for 2020, so it's worth reviewing how it stacks up against the impressive 2020 Sorento.

First, Kia's Sorento is the much more affordable option of the two. Looking at comparable editions like the 2020 Sorento L and Ford Explorer XLT, you'll discover that the Kia's MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price) is nearly $10,000 less than the Ford's! Whether you choose to pocket those savings or upgrade to an even better-equipped trim of the 2020 Sorento, Kia has you covered with its stellar value proposition.

If you're after a well-appointed new crossover or SUV that boasts 7-passenger seating no matter which trim you select, you'll want to go with the Sorento. Ford's new Explorer only offers a maximum of seven seats, with some editions swapping out the middle 3-passenger bench seating for 2-passenger captain's chairs -- for a total of six seats.

Both the 2020 Ford Explorer and 2020 Kia Sorento offer multiple powertrains, plus a choice of two-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. The Sorento turns out to be the more fuel-efficient choice, thanks to its standard 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine; a 290-hp V6 is also available.

Ford's 2020 Explorer delivers a sporty ride, thanks to its new rear-wheel drive (RWD) platform. For a smoother and more compliant ride for your family, consider the refined new Kia Sorento.

Now, let's compare the 2020 Kia Sorento and 2020 Ford Explorer further:

2020 Kia Sorento
VS
2020 Ford Explorer
Kia Sorento L FWD Standard Vehicle Comparison Ford Explorer XLT 4x2
$26,990 Base Price MSRP* $36,925
25 Combined MPG (city & highway) 24
7 Seating Capacity (passengers) 6-7
154 Passenger Volume (cu. ft.) 153
Front-wheel drive (FWD) Standard Drivetrain Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
3,810 Curb Weight (pounds) 4,345
66.3 Height (inches) 69.9
Features On The Kia Sorento
Available Features
Features On The Ford Explorer
  • Leather Seat Trim
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Harman/Kardon® 10-Speaker Surround Sound Audio
  • Remote Keyless Entry
  • Automatic Climate Control
  • Rear Camera Display
  • Kia Smart Cruise Control System
  • Leather seating surfaces
  • Second-row captain seats
  • Voice-Activated Navigation System
  • B&O Sound system by Bang & Olufsen
  • Remote Start System
  • Forward Sensing System

Upgrade to a New Kia at our Rolla, MO, Dealership

Both of these mid-size SUV models offer highly modern features, spacious cabins for up to seven passengers and competitive pricing. Still, the 2020 Kia Sorento outshines the Ford Explorer in some key areas -- including price. If you're eager to test out a new Sorento for yourself and you're in the Rolla, MO, area, stop by Kingdom Kia or schedule your test drive online.

We've yet to cover the array of well-appointed trims of the 2020 Sorento, including the powerful V6-equipped editions like the S V6, EX and SX. These 290-hp Sorento SUVs can tow up to 5,000 pounds with ease, thanks in part to a new 8-speed automatic transmission. The top-trim SX even boasts a Surround View Monitor, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and a Smart Power Liftgate!

The team at Kingdom Kia welcomes you to explore our current lease and finance offers and take advantage of affordable monthly payments for your upcoming new Kia upgrade.

We've also made our auto loan application available to you online, as well as our vehicle trade-in appraisal service. Contact our sales staff today for assistance with your new crossover or SUV search!

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*Starting MSRP is manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for base model trim. MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.

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