Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV. It comes with a great performance and many specification options for the customer to choose from. Right from the first launch in 2002, it has undergone many uplifts to cater to everybody.
Kia Sorento comes with two engine options namely the 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder. The v6 Kia Sorento has greater power in terms of performance but lacks a bit in the fuel efficiency part. However, the v4 cylinder type gives greater fuel efficiency, but reduced power performance for car enthusiasts.
These are the basic differences between the 4 and 6 cylinder engines in Kia Sorento. However, more information will make the difference crystal clear.
Let’s get going with complete analysis about each type in Kia Sorento to help you decide which suits you better.
What Is A Kia Sorento V6?
Kia Sorento V6 comes with a 3.3L V6 engine and a 6-cylinder mechanism. It is best in class for performance with 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque. You get superior class power with these specs. Also, consumers looking for more power can opt for this model as it delivers as mentioned.
Furthermore, you also get an 8-speed automatic transmission with this model of engine specifications. The fuel tank can hold a capacity of 18.8 gallons when filled completely.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Kia Sorento V6 falls a bit behind. The engine uses up most of the fuel to deliver the performance. Hence, to decide on the fuel consumption, you may have to understand between the all-wheel and front-wheel-drive.
For the all-wheel-drive, you will get 19 mpg within the city and 24 mpg on the highway. However, you can also go for the front-wheel-drive that delivers 19 mpg in the city and achieves almost 26 mpg when driving on a highway.
Thus, you get an average of 338.3 miles within the city for a full tank in the Kia Sorento V6 engine. Also, in the case of highway driving, you can reach a maximum of 451.2 miles with full gas in the tank.
With this information, you may get a clear picture of the on-road mileage of the Kia Sorento V6 engine.
What Is A Kia Sorento V4?
A basic format of the Kia Sorento engine is the V4 type. With this purchase, you will get a 2.4-liter engine capacity and a 4-cylinder mechanism. The power of this engine-equipped Kia Sorento is around 185 horsepower with 178 pound-feet of torque.
While the performance, compared to a V6 version might be less, it does excel in the fuel efficiency part. Also, customers looking to achieve long distances without fuel-burning their pockets can try this version of the Kia Sorento.
In other terms, the Kia Sorento V4 gives the best mileage in comparison to the 6-cylinder engine. However, this option also has the same capacity fuel tank of 18.8 gallons as the V6 type.
The on-road tested mileage ranged from 22 mpg while driving in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Hence, you can cover around 413.6 miles on average inside the city. When it comes to driving on the highway, you can reach at least 545.2 miles. Also, all these figures represent the distance covered when the task is full of gas.
The Kia 4 cylinder engine is a great option when compared to budget-friendly cars. Especially for city use, it is the ideal car cylinder specs any regular user can consider.
Additionally, customers can have a car that goes well in terms of fuel ratings as well as gives acceptable power.
Why Should You Buy Kia Sorento V4 Or V6?
Many car users always depend on fuel efficiency to make their decision. They wouldn’t want to spend more than the permissible limit to fill up fuel if they are an everyday user. As fuel prices fluctuate, consumers want a car that will deliver with being cost-efficient on fuel also.
On that note, the Kia Sorento V4 engine is the best option for such customers. It delivers the best fuel ratings when compared to the V6 version.
Also, for the fuel filled, you get good mileage. Even if you are considering taking long vacation trips, you can keep the fuel costs well within a specified range before reaching your destination.
On the plus side, you do not have to make regular fuel stops and plan your journey easily with an 18.8-gallon 4-cylinder engine option from the Kia Sorento. Moreover, the six-speed transmission shifts are smooth with minimum turbo lag. You can count on this car to get you to your destination with limited costs but greater comfort.
However, since the Kia Sorento is an SUV, you may find the lower power a big problem. If the car is packed, achieving greater speed might be an issue.
Similarly, the V6 delivers a punch when it comes to performance. If you are looking to show off your car and its performance, choose the 6-cylinder model from the Kia Sorento. However, you have to bear with timely fuel fill-ups to avoid running out. Also, the fuel bills may turn out expensive for a whole trip.
Choose between the front-wheel or all-wheel drive to suit your taste and needs. With the V6 engine, you can opt to drive at great speeds on a highway. Also, when you pick up super speed, the driving remains smooth with the 8-speed transmission shifting well.
Moreover, when it comes to braking and handling, the Kia Sorento in both versions remains classic. The driver has great control over the vehicle with good maneuverability. Also, the Kia Sorento gives great experience with bold interiors and superior technology.
You can go for either option based on your requirement. If you are after power in a Kia Sorento, choose the 6-cylinder version without any doubt. However, if power is of least importance and fuel efficiency holds importance, the 4-cylinder version is your best buy.
Kia Sorento V4 Vs V6 Differences
The major differences between the V4 and V6 engine types in the Kia Sorento lie in the power and fuel efficiency part. To put it in simple words, the 4-cylinder engine will give the best economic ride in terms of fuel usage. However, v6 takes the lead in the power section.
If you are looking for a race car experience with the Kia Sorento whenever you drive, a V6 engine would be the best option. Also, highway driving will be far smoother when you go at top speed to display the car’s prowess.
Although, a v4 engine sounds good only for fuel cost savings. It doesn’t deliver on the power and performance perspective. You are left with an ordinary car that will suit a normal man’s needs during the day. A common complaint seen with the 4-cylinder engine is the lack of power for the size of the car.
However, for city driving, many give a huge thumbs up to the 4-cylinder engine in Kia Sorento. You get to cover a substantial distance with a full tank in the v4 version both in the city and highway. Nevertheless, the v6 Kia Sorento covers a little less for the full tank of 18.8 gallons.
Apart from this, the v4 and v6 do not create any major difference in the driving quality or looks for the car.
Let’s look at a table summary for a better understanding of the differences between v4 and v6:
| Characteristic | V4 Engine | V6 Engine |
| Fuel Efficiency | High | Low |
| Power | Low | High |
| Horsepower | 185 | 290 |
| Torque | 178 pound-feet | 252 pound-feet |
| Mileage in City | 22 mpg (miles per gallon) | 19 mpg (miles per gallon) |
| Mileage in Highway | 29 mpg (miles per gallon) | 24 mpg (miles per gallon) – all-wheel drive26 mpg (miles per gallon) – front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.8 gallons | 18.8 gallons |
| Maximum Distance Covered In City (Full Tank) | 413.6 miles | 338.3 miles |
| Maximum Distance Covered In Highway(Full Tank) | 545.2 miles | 451.2 miles |
Kia Sorento V4 Vs V6 Pros
The Kia Sorento is a great car in the SUV category. Consumers can choose from the 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engine types for different advantages. Let’s have a look at the pros of each type in detail:
V4 Engine Pros
- Good fuel efficiency with an 18.8-gallon tank.
- Riders can plan well-ahead for long vacations with the mileage also being high.
- Covers easily 413.6 miles within the city and 545.2 miles on a highway when filled to capacity.
- Comfortable and smooth ride with good transmission shifts when at a good speed.
- Daily drivers can take this Sorento version with their families with acceptable power and above-average fuel economy ratings.
V6 Engine Pros
- Excellent power with the 6-cylinder version of Kia Sorento.
- Customers get 290 horsepower and 252 pound-feet of torque while driving the v6 engine type.
- It is best suited for highway driving.
- At high speeds, the transmission and power are great.
- Smoother and quieter when driving at freeway speeds.
- The v6 version of the Kia Sorento has the highest tow rating among the engine options available. It has a towing capacity of almost 5000 pounds.
All these pros make each version a top-quality product from the Kia family.
Kia Sorento V4 Vs V6 Cons
While the performance and fuel efficiency remains a classic advantage with v6 and v4 respectively, let’s look at some of the cons below:
V4 Engine Cons
- Underpowered for the size of the car.
- The car shudders when driving at low speeds within the city.
- Only 185 horsepower for the 4-cylinder engine.
- Not suitable for highway driving at top speeds.
- Towing capacity also remains low when compared to the V6.
V6 Engine Cons
- Fuel efficiency is low. Customers have to make timely stops to fill up gas when traveling longer distances.
- For an 18.8 gallon tank, it gives less mileage of 19 mpg within the city.
- Not suitable for daily use in the city as the costs go above your budget easily.
How To Make Your Decision?
Choosing between the Kia Sorento V4 and V6 engine types is a constant debate all over the Kia community forums. Each has the pros that make it superior to the other. Also, there are a few disadvantages with each type that confuses many consumers in the end.
However, look at your needs and budget when deciding to purchase the Kia Sorento. If you want a pocket-friendly car for your daily needs with acceptable power, the Kia Sorento V4 with a 2.4L engine would be the best bet for you.
The mileage is great for all types of drivers when mainly going around the city.
On the other hand, if your family needs an SUV that will be a great accompaniment on your long trip holidays, go for the Kia Sorento 3.3L V6 engine that delivers great power and performance. Although, you should be ready to bear the fuel costs that might be a bit more expensive than the 4-cylinder drive.
However, with the 6-cylinder drive, you get superior comfort at freeway speeds as the transmission shifts are totally smooth. Also, you get a quiet ride with the noises from outside completely muffled.
Thus, the choice ultimately depends on your requirement. On the whole, the Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV that is a great buy for the money spent. Now, you can make your choice regarding the engine type after going through the pros and cons of each thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to deciding between the 4 and 6 cylinder versions in the Kia Sorento, go for the topics like fuel efficiency and power before making your decision. Both the engines guarantee smoothness through your drive according to the respective driving terrains.
The Kia Sorento v4 is the best choice when it comes to fuel efficiency and the 6-cylinder would be a wise choice if you are looking for more power while driving with such a big car.
We hope this guide will help make the choice between the Kia Sorento v4 and v6 easy for you!