In the ever-evolving landscape of Canadian automotive preferences, the 2024 Kia Sorento X-Line EX AWD emerges as a compelling option for those seeking a blend of ruggedness, comfort, and practicality.

As we delve into the intricacies of this mid-size SUV, we’ll explore why it’s becoming an increasingly popular choice for Canadian families and adventure enthusiasts alike.

The X-Line Advantage

The X-Line trim level of the Sorento is Kia’s answer to the growing demand for more off-road capable SUVs in Canada. While not a hardcore trail-blazer, the X-Line EX AWD offers enhanced capabilities that make it well-suited for the diverse Canadian terrain, from urban streets to cottage country roads.

Key X-Line features include:

• Increased ground clearance (up to 8.2 inches)

• All-wheel drive with center locking differential

• Unique front and rear bumpers for improved approach and departure angles

• Roof rack for additional cargo options

These enhancements give the Sorento X-Line EX AWD a more rugged appearance and improved functionality for light off-road use, perfect for Canadian outdoor enthusiasts.

Power and Performance

Under the hood, the 2024 Sorento X-Line EX AWD boasts a capable powertrain that balances performance with efficiency:

• 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine

• 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque

• 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

This powertrain provides ample thrust for highway merging and passing, while also offering enough low-end torque for confident off-road driving.

The dual-clutch transmission offers quick shifts and contributes to the Sorento’s respectable fuel economy figures.

Fuel efficiency ratings for the X-Line EX AWD are competitive in its class:

• City: 11.4 L/100km

• Highway: 8.7 L/100km

• Combined: 10.2 L/100km

These numbers make the Sorento an attractive option for Canadians looking to balance capability with fuel costs, especially important given the country’s vast distances and varying fuel prices across provinces.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the Sorento X-Line EX AWD, and you’re greeted with a cabin that punches above its weight class. Kia has made significant strides in interior quality, and the Sorento benefits from this upmarket push.

Notable interior features include:

• Synthetic leather upholstery

• Heated front seats (a must for Canadian winters)

• Dual-zone automatic climate control

• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

• Wireless phone charging

The EX trim level strikes a balance between luxury and value, offering many premium features without pushing the price into luxury-brand territory.

The cabin is well-insulated, providing a quiet ride even on rougher Canadian roads.

Spacious and Versatile

One of the Sorento’s key selling points is its spacious interior and flexible seating arrangements. With three rows of seating, it offers:

• Seating for up to 7 passengers

• 40/20/40 split-folding second row

• 50/50 split-folding third row

• Up to 2,139 liters of cargo space with all rear seats folded

This versatility makes the Sorento X-Line EX AWD an excellent choice for Canadian families who need to juggle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and occasional cargo-hauling duties.

Safety First

In a country where road conditions can be challenging, safety is paramount. The 2024 Sorento X-Line EX AWD comes equipped with an impressive array of safety features:

• Forward collision-avoidance assist

• Lane keeping assist and lane following assist

• Blind-spot collision avoidance assist

• Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist

• Safe exit assist

• Highway driving assist

These systems work together to provide a comprehensive safety net, giving Canadian drivers peace of mind in various driving scenarios.

Canadian-Specific Considerations

The Sorento X-Line EX AWD is well-suited to Canadian driving conditions and lifestyles:

1. All-Wheel Drive: The standard AWD system is a boon for Canadian winters, providing improved traction on snow and ice.

2. Remote Start: Available remote start allows you to warm up the vehicle before braving the cold Canadian mornings.

3. Heated Steering Wheel: An available heated steering wheel adds an extra touch of comfort during chilly drives.

4. Windshield Wiper De-Icer: This feature helps keep the wipers functioning effectively in freezing conditions.

5. Roof Rack: The standard roof rack is perfect for carrying additional gear for ski trips or summer camping adventures.

Pricing and Trim Levels

In the Canadian market, the 2024 Kia Sorento is available in several trim levels, with the X-Line EX AWD positioned as a mid-to-high tier option.

While exact pricing can vary by province due to taxes and fees, the approximate starting MSRP for the X-Line EX AWD is around $41,690 CAD.

This pricing places the Sorento X-Line EX AWD in a competitive position within the mid-size SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of features, capability, and value.

Comparisons and Market Position

In the Canadian market, the Sorento X-Line EX AWD competes with several established players:

1. Honda Pilot

2. Toyota Highlander

3. Mazda CX-9

4. Hyundai Palisade

While each competitor has its strengths, the Sorento X-Line EX AWD distinguishes itself with its blend of off-road capability, premium features, and competitive pricing.

It offers a more rugged alternative to some of its more road-focused rivals, appealing to Canadians who want a touch of adventure without sacrificing daily usability.

Ownership Experience

Kia’s reputation for reliability has been growing steadily, and the Sorento benefits from this improved perception. In Canada, Kia offers:

• 5-year/100,000 km comprehensive warranty

• 5-year/unlimited km roadside assistance

• 8-year/130,000 km powertrain warranty

This comprehensive warranty package provides peace of mind for Canadian buyers, especially those in remote areas where vehicle dependability is crucial.

Environmental Considerations

While the X-Line EX AWD is not the most fuel-efficient version of the Sorento (that honor goes to the hybrid models), it still represents a reasonable choice for environmentally conscious Canadian consumers.

Its turbocharged engine provides a good balance of power and efficiency, and the vehicle’s size makes it more fuel-efficient than larger SUVs or trucks with similar capabilities.

For those looking for even greater efficiency, it’s worth noting that Kia offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the Sorento, though not in the X-Line trim as of 2024.

The Driving Experience

On Canadian roads, the Sorento X-Line EX AWD proves to be a capable and comfortable cruiser. The turbocharged engine provides ample power for highway passing and merging, while the all-wheel-drive system offers sure-footed traction in various conditions.

The raised ground clearance of the X-Line trim doesn’t significantly impact on-road handling, with the Sorento maintaining composed road manners. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control, soaking up road imperfections while still providing responsive steering.

Off-road, while not a hardcore trail runner, the X-Line EX AWD is capable enough for light off-roading and cottage access roads. The center locking differential provides additional traction when needed, and the increased ground clearance helps navigate over obstacles.

Technology and Connectivity

In a country as vast as Canada, staying connected is important. The Sorento X-Line EX AWD offers a suite of technology features to keep occupants informed and entertained:

• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system

• Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster

• UVO Intelligence connected car services

• Available head-up display

• Multiple USB ports throughout the cabin

The UVO Intelligence system is particularly useful, offering features like remote start with climate control, which is invaluable during Canadian winters.

Customization and Accessories

Kia offers a range of accessories to help Canadians personalize their Sorento X-Line EX AWD:

• Roof rack cross bars for additional cargo options

• All-weather floor mats (a must for Canadian conditions)

• Towing package for up to 3,500 lbs towing capacity

• Side steps for easier entry and exit

These accessories allow owners to tailor their Sorento to their specific needs, whether that’s for outdoor adventures or family road trips.

Kia Sorento X-Line EX AWD

The 2024 Kia Sorento X-Line EX AWD represents a compelling option in the Canadian mid-size SUV market. It successfully blends the practicality and comfort needed for daily driving with the capability and ruggedness desired for weekend adventures.

Its competitive pricing, comprehensive feature set, and improved build quality make it a strong contender against more established rivals. The X-Line trim, in particular, addresses the desires of Canadian consumers who want a touch more capability without stepping up to a full-size SUV or pickup truck.

While it may not be the best choice for those seeking maximum fuel efficiency or third-row space, the Sorento X-Line EX AWD offers a well-rounded package that will meet the needs of many Canadian families and outdoor enthusiasts.

As always, potential buyers are encouraged to take a test drive and compare the Sorento X-Line EX AWD with its competitors. But for those seeking a versatile, capable, and well-equipped mid-size SUV, the 2024 Kia Sorento X-Line EX AWD certainly deserves a spot on the shortlist.