Kia Sorento Ground Clearance: What to Know
2017 Kia Sorento by Makizox — CC BY-SA 4.0
There are a few notable features a vehicle must have in order for it to be a worthy contender for off-roading. One of those is ground clearance. So today, we’re taking an in-depth look at the Kia Sorento ground clearance and whether it stacks up as an off-road vehicle.
We’ll also discuss some other prominent features that complement the Sorento’s ground clearance. Could Kia prove that it has what it takes to deliver an affordable off-road option? Let’s find out!
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Kia Sorento Ground Clearance
The Sorento was one of Kia’s first attempts at producing a midsize crossover SUV. Thanks to its low price and reliability, the Sorento has quickly climbed its way up the ladder to become one of the company’s most popular entries.
What’s more, the Sorento was treated to a complete redesign in 2021, positioning the vehicle for even greater success in the off-road world. We’ll talk about what the redesign entails in a moment, but let’s first go over the Kia Sorento ground clearance.
In its basic configuration, the Sorento boasts a 7.28-inch ground clearance. That in itself falls within the typical 6 to 8 inches for SUVs. And as such, the Sorento offers reasonable ground clearance for off-roading.
That said, if you think you need even more clearance, Kia’s X-Line trim offers an impressive 8.22 inches, giving it more height than any other 2021 Sorento model. And although ground clearance is essential for off-roading, so are ramp break-over, departure, and approach angles.
Once again, the X-Line presents larger angles, further promoting the Sorento line into optimal off-road territory. Therefore, the X-Line is going to be your best choice if you want to get the most from the Kia Sorento ground clearance.
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Features That Make a Difference
Since 2002, the Sorento has been one of Kia’s most trusted vehicles. Fast-forward to today, and the Sorento is in its fourth generation, featuring a redesigned platform, improved hybrid powertrains, and the new X-Line trim for additional off-road versatility.
The exterior of the Sorento has also seen a makeover, sporting athletic characteristics that make the crossover SUV stand out from previous generations. These features go a long way in complementing the performance upgrades given to the 2021 Sorento, working together to become an off-roaders delight.
The Sorento has been a premier entry from Kia since its inception, and that hasn’t changed. The manufacturer continues to deliver where it matters, making the new Sorento a perennial favorite.
Thanks to a smart all-wheel-drive system, power is automatically directed to the axle with the most grip, giving you the best performance over rough environments. This in itself is a huge advantage while off-road, and you don’t need to upgrade to the X-Line to get it.
The base model Sorento LX comes with a front-wheel-drive system. However, you can opt to upgrade to all-wheel-drive for less than $2k. If you want to get the most traction possible during your off-road outings, you should definitely go with the AWD system.
Smart Modes
When you make the switch to AWD, you get Kia’s Smart driving modes. Thanks to this addition, you get to choose the most capable driving performance. Let’s take a look at what each of the drive modes entail and how they impact your driving experience.
Comfort Mode
Comfort Mode is precisely that: comfortable driving. Unlike Sport Mode, your steering is vastly lighter, making it much easier to turn through exact corners. The suspension and acceleration are both smoother, as well, giving you a much smoother ride.
Rather than push power and handling, Comfort Mode aims for a more pleasurable driving experience. You’ll likely reserve this mode for blacktop.
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Eco Mode
Eco Mode delivers the best fuel efficiency possible. This mode probably isn’t one you’ll want to use during your off-road excursions, as it detracts from the Sorento’s acceleration and engagement. Still, it’s there for when you transition back onto pavement.
Sport Mode
Switch to Sport Mode any time you need an extra boost. Sport Mode gives your throttle increased response and even raises the transmission shift point, ensuring a tighter driving experience.
The steering is also tightened up, vastly improving driving capabilities when you need them most. And when traveling at higher speeds, this mode works to increase control and improve handling.
Essentially, Sport Mode dominates with performance over fuel efficiency. You’ll likely use this mode often during your off-road ventures. Whether you choose the base model’s 7.28-inch ground clearance or the X-Line’s 8.22, Sport Mode works well with either.
Smart Mode
With Smart Mode, your Sorento automatically adjusts to your driving conditions. While driving, Smart Mode monitors your performance throughout the day. If it determines that you are more likely to prefer one driving mode over another, Smart Mode makes the appropriate adjustments to accommodate your needs.
The seamless switching allows for optimized fuel efficiency, smoother riding, and a much-needed power boost depending on environmental conditions. When partnered with your driving habits, you’re getting some of the best fine-tuned performance – on the road or off.
Snow, Mud, and Sand
As you would imagine, each mode improves the Sorento’s performance over either snow, mud, or sand. This kind of versatility makes the Sorento stand out as an off-road vehicle. Rather than limit yourself to one particular surface, these modes give you the freedom to switch between various types for seamless off-road enjoyment.
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Wrap Up
The Kia Sorento ground clearance is already acceptable for off-roading. But thanks to the addition of driving modes, you’re sure to get the best performance possible. They work remarkably well in conjunction with the higher ground clearance of the X-Line model, but don’t count out the base model.
Given the improvements to the new Sorento, you can look forward to enhanced driving and performance throughout. Even rocky terrain and debris are easy to scale, thanks to the sporty body of the Sorento.
The additional modes and features are the icing on the cake, making the 2021 Sorento an off-roaders dream come true.
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