2025 Hyundai Palisade SE vs 2025 Kia Sorento LX
100 more hp and 81 more lb-ft torque vs $7,210 less and 5 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 291 vs 191 hp, 21 vs 26 MPG.
The Palisade SE leads on 100 more hp, 81 more lb-ft torque. The Sorento LX leads on $7,210 less, 5 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2025 Kia Sorento LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,200 | $31,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.8 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,356 lbs | 3,814 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 110.8" |
| Length | 196.7" | 189.6" |
| Width | 77.8" | 74.8" |
| Height | 68.9" | 66.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Kia Sorento LX starts at $31,990, $7,210 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE at $39,200. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $127/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when the extra 100 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Kia Sorento LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,210 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Sorento LX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $385/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Kia Sorento LX rates 26 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 291 hp, 100 more than the 2025 Kia Sorento LX at 191 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE also leads in torque at 262 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Kia Sorento LX uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE, FWD on the 2025 Kia Sorento LX.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is 7.1″ longer at 196.7″ vs 189.6″. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 3.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2025 Kia Sorento LX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE comes with AWD, while the 2025 Kia Sorento LX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Kia trims, Kia Sorento trims
- 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Kia Sorento LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Palisade vs Sorento: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2025 Kia Sorento LX sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-7,210 gap adds up to $127/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Kia Sorento LX uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has 100 more hp (291 vs 191). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE adds 81 more lb-ft of torque (262 vs 181), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE comes with AWD; the 2025 Kia Sorento LX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Palisade vs Sorento
The 2025 Kia Sorento LX saves roughly $385/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,925.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE weighs 542 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE when the extra 100 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Kia Sorento LX when you want to keep $7,210 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Sorento LX covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Kia or any dealership.