Kia’s midsize SUV, the Sorento, has once again proven its dominance in the South Korean market, surpassing the Carnival in March sales. According to reports from the five major automakers, Kia sold 50,056 units last month, marking a 2.0% increase compared to the same period the previous year.
In March, the Sorento was Kia’s top-selling model, with 10,155 units sold. This was 2,445 units more than the Carnival, which recorded sales of 7,710 units. Following the Sorento were the Sportage, with 6,617 units sold, the Seltos, at 5,351 units sold, and the Ray, with 4,584 units sold. The K5 sedan rounded out the top five with 2,863 units sold.
Strong Consumer Response to Refreshed Sorento
Sorento’s success can largely be attributed to the “new model effect” that followed its facelift last year. With a refined design and more premium interior, the Sorento has gained strong traction among consumers, mainly families looking for spacious and value-driven options in the midsize SUV segment.
Measuring 4,815 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,695 mm in height, the Sorento’s generous 2,815 mm wheelbase makes it one of the most spacious vehicles in its class, offering ample room for passengers and cargo.
Popularity Boosted by Hybrid Option
A key factor contributing to the Sorento’s rise in sales is its new hybrid powertrain. Introducing the hybrid model has resonated well with eco-conscious consumers, with seven out of ten Sorentos sold in recent months being hybrid versions. This shift reflects the growing demand for more fuel-efficient options in the SUV market.
The Sorento’s 1.6T hybrid model delivers an impressive combined fuel economy of 15.7 km/L, along with a maximum output of 180 PS and 27.0 kg.m of torque from its gasoline engine, supplemented by an additional 64.8 PS and 26.9 kg.m of torque from the electric motor. This combination provides strong performance and impressive fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for families seeking both practicality and economy.
Pricing for the Sorento remains competitive, with internal combustion engine (ICE) models starting at 36.05 million KRW (about $27,037) and hybrid models beginning at 38.85 million KRW (about $29,137). With its features, performance, and affordability, the Sorento presents a strong value proposition in its segment.
Kia’s International Sales Growth
While the Sorento led sales in Korea, the Sportage took the spotlight in international markets, with 42,579 units sold globally. The Seltos followed with 20,439 units, and the K3 sedan rounded out the top three with 18,200 units sold.
Kia sold 227,724 units overseas in March, a 2.2% increase compared to last year. For the first quarter of 2025, Kia reported a record-breaking 772,351 units sold, a 1.6% increase yearly, surpassing the previous first-quarter sales record of 769,917 units set in 2014.
