Comparison: Ground clearance Kia Sorento vs. competitors 2025
Let's talk about a crucial aspect that's often overlooked unless you're a hardcore off-roading enthusiast or someone who regularly battles less-than-ideal roads – ground clearance. The KIA Sorento, a well-established name in the mid-size SUV segment, has been evolving in this area over its several generations. Whether you're cruising the urban jungle or tackling the wild outdoors, getting the right amount of ground clearance can make all the difference. As of the current models, the KIA Sorento stands with a ground clearance of 176 mm, making it a balanced contender for varied terrains.
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Kia Sorento - How has the ground clearance changed over the generations?
Over the generations, the KIA Sorento has not remained static in its design and features, and ground clearance is no exception. Starting from the 2009-2012 Sorento XM, which had a ground clearance of 184 mm, there was a slight bump to 185 mm during the 2012-2015 facelift. The 2015-2020 UM generation continued with the same 185 mm. However, with the 2020 MQ4 and later models, we've seen a shift to 176 mm. Clearly, KIA decided to fine-tune their SUV's balance between city-driving comfort and off-road capability with the MQ4 series, marking a shift towards a little less of the latter, but a lot more of everything else.
The difference in Ground clearance between first generation (JC) from 2002 and last generation (Sorento MQ4 (1. Facelift)) from 2024 is 17.6cm mm.
The ground clearance of the current generation of Sorento is 176 mm.
The ground clearance compared to other Kia models
When benchmarked against other KIA models, the Sorento sits fairly high up on the ground clearance scale. Models like the KIA Stinger and KIA EV3, with ground clearances of 130 mm and 140 mm respectively, seem laughable for anything beyond speed bumps and the occasional pothole. Even the more sizable Sportage only manages a 170 mm clearance, which is still less than what the MQ4 Sorento offers. Only the EV9 pips it ever so slightly at 177 mm. The Sorento thus provides a well-rounded value proposition, combining acceptable ground clearance with superior practicality.
Kia Sorento vs other current cars by Kia
(Ground clearance)
1. Stinger
130 mm
2. EV3
140 mm
3. Picanto
141 mm
4. Niro EV
150 mm
5. e-Niro
155 mm
6. EV6
160 mm
7. Niro Hybrid
160 mm
8. Niro
160 mm
9. Stonic
165 mm
10. Sportage
170 mm
11. XCeed
172 mm
12. Sorento
176 mm
13. EV9
177 mm
How does the ground clearance of the Kia Sorento compare to it's nearest competitors?
Now, put the Sorento up against its rivals and it's a bit of a mixed bag – like comparing different flavors of crisps. For instance, the Renault Rafale doesn't even come close with its 145 mm clearance – about as useful as a chocolate teapot in rough terrains. On the flip side, the Nissan NV400 boasts a sturdier 189 mm, giving it a slight edge. Then, the Dodge Nitro dips a bit below the Sorento at 180 mm, and the Volvo XC60 goes significantly higher at 230 mm – practically an off-roading deity compared to our Sorento. The Fiat Fullback with 205 mm leaves the Sorento miles behind if ground clearance is your main criteria. Have a look at the wheelbase and lengths, and things get interesting again – vehicles like the Sorento, with its compact yet practical dimensions, offer a middle ground between city handling and off-the-beaten-path prowess.
Kia Sorento vs. similar cars
(Ground clearance)
2. Audi Q8 2018
245 mm
3. Volvo XC60 2008
230 mm
4. ALPINA XD3 2013
212 mm
5. ALPINA XD4 2021
204 mm
6. Jaguar E-Pace 2018
204 mm
7. Infiniti QX30 2016
202 mm
8. Hyundai Tucson 2004
195 mm
9. DS Automobiles DS 7 2022
190 mm
10. Ford Kuga 2008
188 mm
11. Renault Koleos 2008
188 mm
12. Hyundai ix55 2009
185 mm
14. Dodge Nitro 2007
180 mm
15. Skoda Karoq 2017
176 mm
16. KIA Sorento 2024
176 mm
17. Citroen C-Crosser 2007
174 mm
18. Peugeot 4008 2012
168 mm
19. VW ID.4 2020
163 mm
20. Ford Edge 2016
152 mm
21. Mercedes-Benz GLC 2015
123 mm
