What Is The Towing Capacity Of The 2021 Kia Sorento?

The 2021 Kia Sorento is likely going to have a towing capacity inline with the previous generation at 5,000 pounds (for the non-hybrid engine). Hybrids tend to have a lower towing capacity (or a virtually non-existent one). So I would expect the towing capacity on Hybrid variations of the 2021 Sorento to be lower but I certainly wouldn’t expect it to be more than the gasoline-equivalent. For reference the hybrid Toyota Highlander has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds which is class-leading.

Why Is Towing Capacity Unchanged?

The reason that the Sorento is unlikely to have a higher towing capacity is because the 2020 Kia Telluride exists. If the Sorento looks newer, carries 7 people has more tech, and tows the same all while being cheaper the Telluride has no reason to exist. Kia Mohave exists in Korea which matches the Telluride in towing capacity as well.

There’s also no real reason to boost the towing capacity of the Sorento it’s in line with all of its competition. Kia and Hyundai tend to focus more on creating an upscale feel and ergonomics over increasing the towing capacity.

If you disagree please feel free to comment in the comments section below but for us United States customers the towing capacity is likely to be virtually the same as last year.

Power Figures

For the curious we do know of atleast two engine configurations.

1. A 2.5-liter four cylinder (turbo) paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This configuration puts out 277 horsepower.
2. Then of course a hybrid option which is a 1.6-liter four cylinder (turbo). The electric motor will produce 59 horsepower which when figures are combined will output 227 horsepower combined.

It is believed that the lower trims will offer another weak power train (maybe a 2.5-liter four cylinder without a turbo?). Let me know your thoughts below.