2025 Hyundai Tucson SE vs 2026 Kia Sorento LX
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE wins on $2,185 less, AWD. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $2,185 price gap, 187 vs 191 hp, 26 vs 26 MPG.
The Tucson SE leads on $2,185 less, AWD. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Tucson SE | 2026 Kia Sorento LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,205 | $32,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,572 lbs | 3,814 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 110.8" |
| Length | 182.7" | 189.6" |
| Width | 73.4" | 74.8" |
| Height | 66.3" | 66.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | 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 Tucson SE and 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE starts at $30,205, $2,185 less than the 2026 Kia Sorento LX at $32,390. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $38/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,185 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX is the stronger pick when the 2026 Kia Sorento LX is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
Both achieve 26 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE or 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX produces 191 hp, 4 more than the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE at 187 hp. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE, FWD on the 2026 Kia Sorento LX.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE bigger than the 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX is 6.9″ longer at 189.6″ vs 182.7″. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX has a 2.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2026 Kia Sorento LX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE comes with AWD, while the 2026 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 Tucson trims, Kia trims, Kia Sorento trims
- 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Sorento LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Tucson vs Sorento: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE and 2026 Kia Sorento LX sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $2,185 gap is about $38/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. The 4 hp difference (191 vs 187) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia Sorento LX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Tucson vs Sorento
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE when you want to keep $2,185 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Tucson SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Kia Sorento LX when the 2026 Kia Sorento LX is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $38/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.