2025 Kia Sorento Vs. Honda Pilot: Complete SUV Comparison
Our Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot comparison pits two three-row SUVs against each other to see how they rank in performance, trim selection, tech features, safety, and warranty coverage. The result is enlightening: With higher possible torque, superior standard and available benefits, better reliability scores, and an industry-leading warranty, the Sorento leaves the Pilot in the rearview mirror. Read on to learn the specifics of each category, and then schedule your test drive at Wallace Kia of Bristol.
Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot at a Glance
- The Kia Sorento has higher torque potential than the Honda Pilot, along with an available turbocharged engine.
- Many luxurious features, like a suede headliner and heated rear outboard seats, are available on the Sorento but not on the Pilot.
- Inside the Kia Sorento is a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Pilot offers 7-inch and 9-inch options.
- The Kia Sorento boasts better J.D. Power1,2 and RepairPal3,4 reliability scores than the Honda Pilot, while both have lower-than-average ownership costs.3,4
Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot Specs & Performance
The Kia Sorento kicks things off with a nimble 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. However, on higher-tier trims, that agile engine is swapped out for a turbocharged heavy-hitter that boosts horsepower to 281 and ups the ante with 311 pound-feet of torque.
Meanwhile, the Honda Pilot offers one 3.5-liter V-6 engine. You won't find turbocharged precision here. And although it barely surpasses the higher-end of the Kia Sorento lineup with 285 horsepower, it feels anemic in the torque department with just 262 pound-feet available.
Some other notable mentions regarding 2025 Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot specs:
- Both are incredible towers: The Pilot manages a maximum of 5,000 pounds,5 while the Sorento keeps up with a 4,500-pound maximum.6
- Both have various drive modes, including Eco and Sport modes.
- The Kia Sorento gets much better fuel economy with a maximum EPA-estimated 23/31/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),7 while the Honda Pilot only reaches a maximum EPA-estimated 19/27/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).8
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| 2025 Kia Sorento SX | 2025 Honda Pilot Sport | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L Turbo 4-cyl | 3.5L V-6 |
| Horsepower | 281 | 285 |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft |
| Standard Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Transmission | 8-speed dual-clutch auto | 10-speed auto |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 20 / 29 / 237 | 19 / 27 / 228 |
| Max Towing Capacity (FWD) | 3,500 lbs6 | 3,500 lbs5 |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Third / Behind Second / Behind First) | 12.6 / 45 / 75.5 cu ft | 18.6 / 48.5 / 87 cu ft |
| Legroom (First / Second / Third) | 41.4 / 41.7 / 29.6 in | 41 / 40.8 / 32.5 in |
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Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot Trim Levels
Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot lineups both have eight unique trims, but within the Kia Sorento selection, you'll find a greater abundance of interior upholstery, interior color options, and modern conveniences. Heated rear outboard seating and a suede headliner are two examples of Kia Sorento features you won't find on a Honda Pilot.
For the Kia Sorento, here are your choices:
- LX
- S
- EX
- SX
- X-Line EX AWD
- X-Line SX AWD
- X-Line SX Prestige AWD
- X-Pro SX Prestige AWD
Meanwhile, the Honda Pilot offers these trims:
- Sport
- EX-L
- EX-L w/HPD Wheels
- TrailSport
- Touring
- Touring w/HDP Wheels
- Elite
- Black Edition
Honda Pilot vs. Kia Sorento Infotainment & Tech
Right off the jump, the Kia Sorento speeds leagues ahead of the Honda Pilot in a comparison of infotainment and technology. While the Honda Pilot comes with a standard seven-speaker audio system, the Kia Sorento offers a six-speaker setup. However, the Kia Sorento starts off with a much larger display – 12.3 inches, while the Pilot gets a standard 7-inch system. The 12.3-inch center display stays consistent with every Kia Sorento in the lineup, while the Honda Pilot offers a single upgrade option to an underwhelming 9 inches.
Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot Reliability & Safety
Both models in our Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot showdown are reliable picks, but which can withstand life's unexpected obstacles better? Let's dive into the details.
Last year's Kia Sorento was an IIHS Top Safety Pick,11 so we have high hopes for this year's upcoming safety marks. Meanwhile, the 2025 Honda Pilot is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.12
The Kia Sorento earned an 82 out of 100 ranking in Quality & Reliability by J.D. Power – a value that names it "Great" in Reliability.1 The 2025 Honda Pilot only earns an "Average" score,2 falling short of the Sorento in this key category. Additionally, the Sorento ranks better in Driving Experience by J.D. Power than the Honda Pilot.1,2
If you'd like another reason to give the Kia Sorento your most ardent consideration, RepairPal gives it 4.0 out of 5.0 stars in Reliability.3 The Honda Pilot, according to the same authority, only gets a 3.5-star rating in Reliability.4
Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot Maintenance & Warranty
Like all vehicles, both three-row SUVs will require maintenance at regular intervals. Crucial needs like tire rotations, oil changes, spark plug replacements, brake service, and battery care should take place at the manufacturers' recommended milestones.
And you can expect reasonable costs from either an SUV from the new Kia Sorento inventory or the Honda Pilot lineup – RepairPal says both models have low ownership costs.3,4
As for warranty coverage, drivers of either model will be covered, but the Kia Sorento has a longer-lasting – and industry-leading – 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty package paired with its five-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty.9 Meanwhile, the Honda Pilot warranty coverage is scattered across several differing packages, the longest of which only lasts five years.10
So, Who's the Victor in Our Kia Sorento vs. Honda Pilot Showdown?
What more is there to say? Are you looking for a three-row SUV that treats your family to comfort and tech, all while giving you peace of mind with its warranty coverage? If so, come see our selection of all-new Kia vehicles to find your perfect Sorento.
If you'd like to see the Sorento battle it out with another popular three-row model, compare the Kia Sorento vs. Toyota Highlander. We'll be here when the Sorento wins you over.
FAQ
Which SUV has better fuel efficiency: the Sorento or the Pilot?
The Kia Sorento is clearly the more fuel-efficient SUV of these two. The Sorento yields a maximum EPA-estimated 23/31/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)7 in its standard configuration with front-wheel drive, while the Honda Pilot only makes it to a maximum EPA-estimated 19/27/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).8 Consider one of the mild-hybrid or PHEV Sorento variants for superior electrified fuel efficiency.
Does the 2025 Kia Sorento or Honda Pilot offer more engine options?
The 2025 Kia Sorento offers more engine options than the Honda Pilot. Every Honda Pilot in the 2025 lineup operates on a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, while the Kia Sorento opts for a standard, lightweight, and agile 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. On higher-tier models, this 2.5-liter engine gets turbocharged, pumping out nearly 100 additional horsepower than its non-turbo counterpart.
Which SUV offers more trims and choices: the Kia Sorento or the Honda Pilot?
This year, both the Kia Sorento and Honda Pilot come with an eight-trim lineup. The Kia Sorento lineup includes:
- LX
- S
- EX
- SX
- X-Line EX AWD
- X-Line SX AWD
- X-Line SX Prestige AWD
- X-Pro SX Prestige AWD
The Honda Pilot lineup includes:
- Sport
- EX-L
- EX-L w/ HPD Wheels
- TrailSport
- Touring
- Touring w/ HDP Wheels
- Elite
- Black Edition
Discover More Kia Model Comparisons
1Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/kia/sorento
2Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/honda/pilot
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/kia/sorento/car_reviews
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/cars/honda/pilot/2025
5Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
6Towing requires additional equipment. See Owner's Manual for towing capacity, additional instructions and warnings. Always use caution while towing.
7Based on EPA estimates. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle's condition. See www.fueleconomy.gov.
8Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
9Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.
10Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
11Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/kia/sorento-4-door-suv/2025
12Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/honda/pilot-4-door-suv/2025
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.