2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid presented a unique design that stood out within Kia's lineup, blending elements from other models to create a distinct crossover appearance. It was available in two trims, S and EX, with minor differences such as the addition of fog lamps and a panoramic sunroof in the EX. The exterior featured LED headlights, body-color mirrors, and Satin Chrome accents, while the interior offered leatherette seat trim, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate controls. The Sorento Hybrid's interior was well-executed, with a mix of hard and soft-touch surfaces, although the dark silver plastic trim could be distracting in sunlight.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered three distinct designs across its trims, with the PHEV available in the Rugged Woodland and three Sport grades, including the GR Sport. The RAV4 maintained its boxy, truck-like presence with features like daytime running lights, a rear roof spoiler, and vertical taillights. The Woodland trim emphasized off-road capabilities with all-terrain tires and a black roof rack, while the GR Sport showcased racier elements like red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. The interior featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with storage solutions like a dashboard shelf and deep door pockets.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency with its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and electric motor, producing 177 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It was only available in front-wheel drive and offered drive modes like Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. The Sorento Hybrid excelled in Eco mode, achieving an EPA rating of 39 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 37 mpg combined, making it a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with a larger battery pack, boosting power to 324 hp and offering a 52-mile electric range. All-wheel drive was standard, with a front motor rated at 203 hp and a smaller rear motor for assistance. The RAV4 PHEV delivered a spirited ride with a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds, thanks to its seamless power transition and paddle shifters. The GR Sport trim offered enhanced handling with a lower ride height and performance tires, while the overall ride remained comfortable despite the vehicle's weight.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid featured a well-thought-out interior with split-level dashboard vents and functional controls for the infotainment and climate systems. The rotary shifter required deliberate effort to engage, but the seats were comfortable, with power adjustments for the driver. Third-row seating was less spacious, with limited legroom compared to competitors. Cargo space was adequate for everyday needs, with a power liftgate available on the EX trim.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained its dimensions from the previous generation, optimizing interior space with clever storage features like a dashboard shelf and deep door pockets. The SE trim offered a power driver’s seat and heated front seats, while higher trims included ventilated seats and synthetic leather upholstery. Rear legroom was sufficient for taller passengers, but cargo space was reduced compared to the standard RAV4, offering 33.6 cubic feet with the seats up and 63.5 cubic feet with them down.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, offering a user-friendly operating system with responsive controls. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and satellite radio. The vehicle also offered power outlets and USB ports throughout the cabin, with options for a wireless phone charger.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch screen available on top trims. The touchscreen offered customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy navigation, while the digital cluster provided improved graphics and user interface. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, enhanced responsiveness and voice assistant capabilities, allowing drivers to locate chargers and access plug-in hybrid system data.

The 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision avoidance. The EX trim expanded on these features with additional collision avoidance assists. While the Sorento Hybrid had not been crash-tested by the IIHS, the similar 2021 Kia Sorento received a Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a wide range of driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors. The system's enhancements improved responsiveness and detection, contributing to the RAV4's strong safety record. The vehicle also included a surround-view camera system on higher trims for added convenience.