Choosing Between the 2026 Sorento and 2027 Telluride

While small crossover SUVs have gained popularity in recent years, demand for three-row models is expected to remain consistent. Families and other commuters appreciate having three rows of seating, ample storage space, and performance that enables rugged adventures and considerable towing. Two Kia models that are among the more popular options in this segment include the Sorento and Telluride.

Choosing between the two should be a well-thought-out decision, and that’s where we come in. Here at Rusty Wallace Kia of Knoxville, we’re taking a closer look at the Telluride and Sorento, presenting you with information that will help make this choice easier. Whether you’re in the market for a 2027 Kia Telluride or a 2026 Kia Sorento for sale near Jefferson City, we’re here to help.

We will examine various aspects, including fuel economy, performance, storage space, and other key features. When you’ve read through and processed the information, you’ll be closer to making the right choice as to which of these larger Kia SUVs will suit you best.

Fuel Economy

Three-row SUVs were once considered somewhat impractical for some drivers due to their bulkier powertrains, which sacrificed fuel economy in favor of stronger performance and towing capability—two aspects we’ll be diving into later. However, the Telluride and Sorento each have multiple powertrain options that allow Jefferson City drivers to have the seating and storage they need while also saving at the pump.

The 2027 Kia Telluride is geared more toward performance, permitting generally larger towing capacities over the Sorento. However, it also has its advantages in terms of fuel economy. An available hybrid powertrain produces 329 hp and achieves an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 35 MPG. Therefore, the Telluride, while possessing beefier performance, can still sip fuel when transporting passengers and cargo.

The 2026 Kia Sorento, on the other hand, is designed to offer economical performance, particularly with two of its powertrain options providing remarkable fuel economy. The Sorento is available with two gas engines, as well as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option. The hybrid powertrain offers a combined fuel economy of 37 MPG on front-wheel-drive models. Drivers who want to conserve fuel during short city trips will find the Sorento PHEV favorable, with 30 miles of electric-only driving.

Verdict: If you’re in the market for a three-row SUV with sustainable fuel economy, the Sorento is a more favorable option. The hybrid and PHEV versions of this SUV are ideal for going farther between fill-ups.

Capabilities

Chances are, if you’re shopping for a Telluride or Sorento, seating and storage are two aspects you hold in high regard. Both of Kia’s three-row SUVs offer unique seating arrangements with ample cargo room. Like many other models in the three-row SUV segment, they can also tow a considerable amount of weight. Jefferson City residents should pay close attention to this when choosing between the Sorento and Telluride.

Both SUVs offer commuters three rows of seating, though the arrangements differ slightly. Like many SUVs in their segment, the 2026 Sorento and 2027 Telluride can be equipped with either captain’s chairs or a bench seat in the second row. A Telluride with captain’s chairs can accommodate seven passengers, while the inclusion of the bench seat accommodates up to eight passengers in total.

The Sorento offers a similar seating arrangement. With the inclusion of captain’s chairs, the Sorento provides seating for six. Commuters who require additional space for passengers can opt for a second-row bench seat, which increases the Sorento’s passenger capacity to seven. Choosing between the Sorento and Telluride may come down to how many people you need to transport in and around Jefferson City.

In addition to seating, storage capacity has long been a hallmark of the three-row SUV segment. Both the Sorento and Telluride offer a generous amount of room for groceries, furniture, and any other necessities you might need to transport. Depending on how much you need to haul on any given day, it’s essential to consider the storage capacity of both SUVs.

With all three rows of seats occupied, a 2026 Sorento offers 12.6 cu.ft. of space. Folding the second row of seats unlocks 45 cu.ft. When storage becomes a priority, the Sorento can hold 75.5 cu.ft. of cargo behind the front row of seats. Therefore, the Sorento offers a great balance of storage and seating.

Jefferson City drivers who need more storage space will be pleased with what a 2027 Telluride offers. Even with all seats occupied, the Telluride gives drivers 22.3 cu.ft of cargo room to work with—more than the average trunk size of a four-door sedan. The Telluride’s second row can be folded to unlock 46.3 cu.ft of room, while 86.9 cu.ft. is available behind the front row.

So far, we’ve covered seating and storage applications for both the Telluride and the Sorento. However, some Jefferson City residents require additional cargo capabilities via towing. Three-row SUVs are widely used for their towing capabilities, and the Telluride and Sorento both meet this need.

A higher-trim Sorento equipped with a four-cylinder engine can tow up to 4,500 lbs when properly equipped, while all other gas and hybrid powertrains offer a maximum rating of 2,000 lbs. To make the most of the Sorento’s towing capability, you have to forego the more fuel-efficient setups.

The Telluride, on the other hand, is far more capable of towing. The hybrid version of this SUV can match the Sorento’s maximum tow rating of 4,500 lbs, while Jefferson City drivers who opt for the standard four-cylinder unlock an impressive 5,000-lb tow rating.

Verdict: There are several reasons why many drivers opt for a three-row SUV. The Kia Sorento covers the basics of seating and storage. However, some drivers also need pulling power. For those who need the maximum amount of all three factors, the Kia Telluride is the ideal option.

Tech Features

Regardless of whether you’re considering a Telluride or Sorento, staying connected and safe on the road is of the utmost importance. Kia vehicles are known for their tech-savviness and abundance of driver assistance features that offer peace of mind. Surprisingly, both vehicles are on equal footing in these crucial areas.

The 2026 Sorento and 2027 Telluride both come with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The intuitive setup offers wireless connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as the ability to connect multiple devices. Both SUVs also have stereo systems that provide pristine audio quality for your travels.

Staying connected and entertained on the road is desirable, but being safe is crucial. Both SUVs come standard with a wide range of driver assistance features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Many SUV owners are parents, and the inclusion of many driver assistance technologies allows them to travel farther knowing they’re well-protected.

Two Large Kia SUVs for Jefferson City Families

If you’re in the market for a three-row SUV, both Kia’s Telluride and Sorento are ideal options. The 2026 Sorento is best suited for drivers who favor agile handling and favorable fuel economy. The 2027 Telluride, on the other hand, is more suited for storage, seating, and towing.

When you’re ready for a test drive, Rusty Wallace Kia of Knoxville is the place to turn to. We offer a variety of SUVs and their trims. Our experts can help you choose the configuration that best suits your needs.