2022 KIA SORENTO PHEV VS HYUNDAI SANTA FE PHEV - SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT

EV Channels Review

This review pits the 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV against the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV, highlighting their shared platform but distinct characteristics. The Sorento is praised for its edgier styling, hidden rear wiper, and the significant advantage of a standard third row, making it more versatile. Its interior is noted as modern with large screens, though some hard plastics are present. The Santa Fe impresses with its classy front-end design and superior ground clearance, potentially beneficial in snowy conditions. Its interior is described as more traditional but elegant with soft-touch materials. A key differentiator is the Sorento's availability in higher trims in Canada, including a surround-view monitor, which is a notable omission in the Canadian Santa Fe lineup. Both vehicles share the same powertrain, offering 261 horsepower and a 51 km (32 miles) EV range. However, a significant drawback for both is their tendency to engage the gasoline engine frequently, even on short trips or when using climate control, making them feel more like enhanced hybrids than true EVs. The reviewer's preference leans towards the Kia Sorento PHEV due to its greater utility, third-row seating, and better trim availability in the Canadian market, despite the shared powertrain limitations.