2023 Kia Sorento vs 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander

Sorentos and Outlanders aren’t as oversized as many 3 row SUVs, such as the Ford Explorer. Both are kept trim, and it’s logical to ask whether the Kia or Mitsubishi actually has enough space for your family.

Beyond that, it’s a matter of standard features, important technologies and favorite amenities, such as ventilated seats. In this 3 row SUV comparison, we’ll look at differences and similarities in this model year.

1. What’s New for 2023?

   The Outlander was redesigned for the 2022 model year. This year Mitsubishi added a Ralliart trim and a 40th anniversary special edition. This is the first year for the Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV).

   For 2023, the Sorento has gained more standards. This includes must-have driver assistance, including a blind spot monitor and a rear traffic alert. A safe exit assist tries to keep the kids from stepping out into traffic.

2. Bigger is Better

   If the purpose of a family SUV is to take care of people, then bigger is better. More space is just essential. In this case, the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander offers as many seats as the Sorento, and the front two rows are somewhat the same. However, the Mitsubishi 3 Row lacks realistic space on the third row.

   With almost 30 inches of third row legroom, the 2023 Kia Sorento is big enough for taller kids. It’s easy to get into because Kia designed it with large door openings. You’ll find it classified as a true midsize SUV rather than as a compact SUV like the Outlander.

   

   Sharing the same platform as a 2-row Nissan Rogue, 3-row Outlanders have less than 20 inches of third row legroom. Even kids will find that a difficult space to fit into. Basically, looking at it from a cost perspective, buying the 2023 Kia Sorento means you are buying more space for your kids. With little difference in price and warranties, that would indicate the Sorento was a better buy.

3. Hauling and Towing

   When it comes to hauling and towing, the Sorento can claim a higher tow rating. The Kia cargo hold is bigger behind the 3rd row seats and behind the 2nd row seats when the 3rd row is folded. This gives the family an advantage when taking trips. They’ll have more space to pack.

   On the other hand, Outlanders have about 5 percent more total cargo space with all seats folded. This is most useful when moving furniture or big boxes.

   

   The Kia Sorento doesn’t claim to be as big as the Kia Telluride or its pricey rivals, the Ford Expedition, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Subaru Ascent, or Volkswagen Atlas. However, Sorentos are very competitive. They have more second-row legroom than the Chevrolet Traverse. They have more third-row legroom and the same total cargo area as the Toyota Highlander.

4. Performance Options

   The 2023 Outlander has a 181-horsepower engine that generates 181 lb-ft of torque. That’s low capability for a two-row SUV and feels especially underpowered with a three-row SUV.

   

   A 191-horsepower 4-cylinder engine and a 281-horsepower turbo are the first options on the 2023 Kia Sorento.

   Shoppers may notice that the standard Sorento has more power than the Outlander, but the two earn the same city fuel economy. Outlanders have a 2-mpg advantage when it comes to highway fuel economy. Yet Sorentos claim the longest driving range due to the large gas tank.

5. Plug In Hybrid Performance Comparison

   For greener machines, Kia offers the Sorento Hybrid and the Sorento PHEV. The 227-horsepower hybrid provides an average fuel economy of 37 mpg, including a remarkable 39 mpg in the city. Outlanders are not offered with a standard hybrid option.

   As for the Sorento Plug In Hybrid, it generates 261 horsepower, giving it a power advantage over its rival. The Outlander Plug-In Hybrid generates 249 horsepower.

   

   The 2023 Outlander PHEV claims the longer electric range. However, the Sorento PHEV claims better overall fuel efficiency and higher horsepower. Shoppers will have to weigh these factors when choosing between them.

6. Value and Ownership Costs

   Starting below $30,000, the new Kia Sorento has a low starting price in the midsize SUV class. It was a finalist for the US News award, the 2023 Best 3-Row SUV for the Money.

   The new Mitsubishi Outlander is classified as a compact SUV. The MSRP is around $28,000, one of the lowest in its compact SUV class.

   Here’s how the two compare in terms of features. They both have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and an 8-inch touch screen. Sorentos have a few more standards, including six USB ports and HD Radio.

   As for driver assistance, Kias have a longer list, including a blind spot monitor, a rear cross traffic alert, a forward collision system with an autobrake, and a lane keep assist. Other standards include automatic high beams, a driver attention monitor, a pedestrian watch with an autobrake, and a rear seat alert.

   Warranty coverage is similar for the two 3-row SUVs. Kia and Mitsubishi offer a 5-year limited warranty and a 10-year powertrain warranty.Competitive financing is available now from Earnhardt Kia.

7. Trim Levels

   Sorento S and Outlander SE trim levels have synthetic leather seats. The front seats are heated, and the driver has a power chair. The Outlander SE adds an upgraded 9-inch touchscreen, 2 rear USB ports, and HD radio. The Sorento S trim level has a 10.3-inch navigation touchscreen and a wireless device charger.

   Higher trims include the Mitsubishi Outlander Black Edition, leather-clad SEL, and SEL Black Edition. These add a large 12.3-inch digital instrument panel similar to the one found on the Sorento EX, SX, and higher trims. Likewise, the Outlander adds a panoramic sunroof similar to the one found on the Sorento SX.

   At its most luxurious, the Sorento SX Prestige and SX-P PHEV pull ahead with ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, and rear sunshades. If you want ventilated seats for your Phoenix AZ area family car, the Sorento is the obvious place to start.

Conclusion

From its size to its power, the 2023 Kia Sorento maintains a lead over the Mitsubishi Outlander. Yet the pricing is similar. Parents will do well to start with the more spacious Sorento before settling for the Outlander.

Schedule a test drive at Earnhardt, your Kia dealer.