2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend vs 2025 Kia Sorento LX
Awd vs 16.9″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $145 price gap, 181 vs 191 hp, 27 vs 26 MPG.
The Bronco Sport Big Bend leads on AWD. The Sorento LX leads on 16.9″ longer. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend | 2025 Kia Sorento LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,845 | $31,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 181 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 190 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,814 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 110.8" |
| Length | 172.7" | 189.6" |
| Width | 74.3" | 74.8" |
| Height | 70.2" | 66.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend starts at $31,845, $145 less than the 2025 Kia Sorento LX at $31,990. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is the stronger pick when you want to keep $145 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $59/year less on fuel; 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 the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend or 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend rates 27 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend or 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Kia Sorento LX produces 191 hp, 10 more than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at 181 hp. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend also leads in torque at 190 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Sorento LX uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend, FWD on the 2025 Kia Sorento LX.
Is the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend bigger than the 2025 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2025 Kia Sorento LX is 16.9″ longer at 189.6″ vs 172.7″. The 2025 Kia Sorento LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2025 Kia Sorento LX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend 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?
The Ford Bronco Sport comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Sorento offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims, Kia trims, Kia Sorento trims
Bronco Sport vs Sorento: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend and 2025 Kia Sorento LX sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $145 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Sorento LX uses a 2.5L I4. The 10 hp difference (191 vs 181) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend 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: Bronco Sport vs Sorento
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend saves roughly $59/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $295.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Kia Sorento LX is 16.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Kia Sorento LX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend when you want to keep $145 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Kia Sorento LX when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
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 Ford or Kia or any dealership.