@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
@ Kia Corporation
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Ford Kuga vs Kia Sorento – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Ford Kuga or Kia Sorento?

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Head-to-Head: Ford Kuga vs. Kia Sorento

As the SUV market continues to dominate the automotive sector, two contenders have consistently ranked as top options for families and adventure lovers alike—the Ford Kuga and the Kia Sorento. Although both vehicles boast strong credentials, each brings unique elements to the table. In this article, we'll delve into the technical aspects and innovations of each model to help you decide which SUV reigns supreme.

Sorento @ Kia Corporation

Engine Options and Performance

The Ford Kuga stands out due to its variety of engine choices, offering petrol, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants. These powertrains come in multiple configurations, providing a balanced mix of performance and efficiency. With power output ranging from 150 to 243 HP and torque reaching 240 Nm, the Kuga accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 7.3 seconds, depending on the model. Its max speed tops out at an impressive 200 km/h.

On the other hand, the Kia Sorento focuses on performance through its plug-in hybrid, full hybrid, and diesel engines. This SUV offers a power range of 194 to 252 HP and comes with a torque output of up to 440 Nm. The Sorento can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds, showcasing substantial power for a family-oriented vehicle. Top speeds reach 201 km/h, making it one of the faster SUVs in its class.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Fuel Efficiency and Range

One of the standout features of the Kuga is its plug-in hybrid’s consumption of just 0.9 L/100km while offering an electric range of up to 69 km, courtesy of its 14.4 kWh battery. Meanwhile, the full hybrid options deliver a more traditional fuel economy between 5.3 and 6.4 L/100km, and CO2 emissions range from 20 to 145 g/km.

The Sorento provides a combined consumption of 1.6 L/100km for its plug-in hybrid model, with an electric range of 55 km. For non-hybrid models, fuel economy varies from 6.2 to 7.2 L/100km. The Sorento’s CO2 output ranges from a notable 37 g/km in its most efficient models to 174 g/km for the diesel variants.

Sorento @ Kia Corporation

Drive Types and Transmissions

Flexibility is a cornerstone of the Ford Kuga, offering both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options paired with either a manual gearbox or a CVT for the hybrid models. This flexibility caters to both driving enthusiasts and those who prioritize convenience.

The Kia Sorento operates solely with automatic transmissions but provides both front-wheel and all-wheel drive setups. Its dual-clutch automatic option delivers a more engaging driving experience, appealing to those who enjoy more hands-on driving without manual shifting.

Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Interior and Space

The Ford Kuga is designed with a focus on comfort and practicality, seating up to five passengers. Its trunk holds up to 412 liters, adequate for daily errands and short getaways. Despite its compact SUV size, the model does not compromise on interior space.

The Kia Sorento outperforms with options for 5, 6, or 7-seat configurations, catering to larger families and group travel. Offering up to 705 liters of trunk space, the Sorento excels in cargo capacity, making long road trips and moving days less daunting.

Sorento @ Kia Corporation

Final Thoughts

Both the Ford Kuga and Kia Sorento bring their unique strengths to the SUV category. The Kuga shines with its flexible engine options and focus on fuel efficiency. On the flip side, the Sorento impresses with its spacious interior and higher torque. Your choice ultimately boils down to your priorities—whether it’s performance, fuel economy, or space. Regardless, either vehicle stands as a worthy choice in the crowded SUV market.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Ford Kuga has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34200 £, while the Kia Sorento costs 46000 £. That’s a price difference of around 11778 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Kia Sorento manages with 1.60 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Ford Kuga with 2.80 L. The difference is about 1.20 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Ford Kuga performs somewhat better – achieving up to 68 km, about 13 km more than the Kia Sorento.

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Kia Sorento has a barely noticeable edge – offering 252 HP compared to 243 HP. That’s roughly 9 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Kuga is clearly perceptible quicker – completing the sprint in 7.30 s, while the Kia Sorento takes 8.80 s. That’s about 1.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Kia Sorento performs slight better – reaching 201 km/h, while the Ford Kuga tops out at 200 km/h. The difference is around 1 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Kia Sorento pulls clearly stronger with 440 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 200 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Kia Sorento offers distinct more seating capacity – 7 vs 5.

In curb weight, Ford Kuga is evident lighter – 1526 kg compared to 1854 kg. The difference is around 328 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Kia Sorento offers significantly more room – 705 L compared to 412 L. That’s a difference of about 293 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Kia Sorento performs noticeable better – up to 2100 L, which is about 566 L more than the Ford Kuga.

When it comes to payload, Kia Sorento slightly takes the win – 684 kg compared to 550 kg. That’s a difference of about 134 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Kia Sorento shows itself to be is largely superior and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £46,000
Sorento @ Kia Corporation

Kia Sorento

  • Engine Type : Plugin Hybrid, Full Hybrid, Diesel
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 194 - 252 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.6 - 7.2 L
  • Electric Range : 55 km

Ford Kuga

3.5 (2)
rate

The Kuga is Ford’s adaptable family SUV that blends usable space with a surprisingly lively driving character, making daily commutes and weekend escapes equally enjoyable. With smart interior packaging, an easy-to-use infotainment setup and composed road manners, it’s a sensible choice for buyers who want a bit of fun without the fuss.

details

Kia Sorento

The Kia Sorento blends roomy practicality with smart tech and an unexpectedly composed highway manner, making it an easy choice for families who want comfort without fuss. It presents classy interior touches and sensible packaging at a realistic price, proving you don't need to shout to be noticed in the SUV crowd.

details
Ford Kuga
Kia Sorento
Kuga @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center
Sorento @ Kia Corporation

Costs and Consumption

Price
34200 - 46300 £
Price
46000 - 59300 £
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 6.8 L
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 7.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
68 km
Electric Range
55 km
Battery Capacity
1.1 - 14.4 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
55 - 154 g/km
co2
37 - 174 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 54 L
Fuel tank capacity
47 - 67 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1526 - 1859 kg
Curb weight
1854 - 2105 kg
Trunk capacity
412 L
Trunk capacity
175 - 705 L
Length
4604 - 4645 mm
Length
4810 - 4815 mm
Width
1882 mm
Width
1900 mm
Height
1673 - 1681 mm
Height
1695 mm
Max trunk capacity
1534 L
Max trunk capacity
1988 - 2100 L
Payload
541 - 550 kg
Payload
455 - 684 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Plugin Hybrid, Full Hybrid, Diesel
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive, Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 243 HP
Power HP
194 - 252 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.3 - 9.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.8 - 9.7 s
Max Speed
195 - 200 km/h
Max Speed
183 - 201 km/h
Torque
240 Nm
Torque
367 - 440 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
111 - 178 kW
Power kW
142 - 185 kW
Engine capacity
1496 - 2488 cm3
Engine capacity
1598 - 2151 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
B, E, F
Brand
Ford
Brand
Kia
What drivetrain options does the Ford Kuga have?

The Ford Kuga is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.