How Many Seats Does a Kia Sorento Have

The Kia Sorento offers flexible seating for up to eight passengers, depending on the model year and trim level. Most recent models come standard with seven seats, while higher trims and earlier versions may include an optional third row for added capacity.

Key Takeaways

• Seating Capacity Varies by Model Year: Older Sorentos (2003–2014) often seat up to eight, while newer models (2015–present) typically seat seven.
• Standard 7-Seat Layout: Most current Sorentos feature a 2-3-2 configuration with second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat.
• Optional 8-Seat Configuration Available: Some trims and packages allow you to swap captain’s chairs for a bench in the second row.
• Third Row is Best for Kids: The rear-most seats are compact and ideal for children or short trips.
• Cargo Space Adjusts with Seating: Folding rear seats expand trunk space from 12.6 to over 75 cubic feet.
• Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Models Maintain Seating: Electrified versions don’t sacrifice passenger room for battery packs.
• Family-Friendly Features Enhance Comfort: Rear climate controls, USB ports, and easy-fold mechanisms improve usability.

How Many Seats Does a Kia Sorento Have?

If you’re shopping for a midsize SUV that balances style, space, and practicality, the Kia Sorento is likely on your shortlist. One of the most common questions buyers ask is: “How many seats does a Kia Sorento have?” The answer isn’t always straightforward—because it depends on the model year, trim level, and optional configurations. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with a detailed breakdown.

Over the years, Kia has refined the Sorento’s design to meet evolving family needs. While early models leaned into maximum passenger capacity, recent versions prioritize comfort and cargo flexibility. Today’s Sorento typically seats seven passengers, but depending on how you configure it, you might squeeze in eight. Whether you’re shuttling kids to soccer practice, carpooling coworkers, or planning a weekend road trip, understanding the seating options will help you choose the right setup for your lifestyle.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every seating configuration the Sorento has offered, explain how trim levels affect your choices, and share real-world tips for maximizing space and comfort. We’ll also cover hybrid variants, cargo trade-offs, and what to expect if you’re considering a used model. By the end, you’ll know exactly how many seats your ideal Sorento can hold—and whether it’s the right fit for your crew.

Seating Configurations Across Model Years

The Kia Sorento has evolved significantly since its debut in 2002. Its seating capacity has shifted alongside design updates, reflecting changing consumer preferences. To understand how many seats a Kia Sorento has, it’s essential to look at different generations.

First Generation (2003–2009): The 8-Seat Pioneer

The original Sorento was built on a truck-based platform and marketed as a rugged, family-friendly SUV. It came standard with three rows of seating, offering a 2-3-3 layout that could accommodate up to eight passengers. The third row was tight—even by early-2000s standards—but it gave families an extra spot for kids or gear. Most models featured a bench seat in both the second and third rows, making it easy to load multiple passengers quickly.

This generation was ideal for large families or those who needed occasional extra seating without upgrading to a full-size SUV. However, fuel economy and ride comfort were trade-offs due to its body-on-frame construction.

Second Generation (2011–2014): Refined but Still Spacious

With the second generation, Kia switched to a unibody design, improving handling and fuel efficiency. The Sorento retained its three-row setup, continuing to offer seating for up to eight. However, the third row became slightly more cramped as Kia prioritized cargo space and interior refinement. The 2-3-3 layout remained standard on most trims, though some higher-end models introduced optional second-row captain’s chairs, reducing total capacity to seven.

This era struck a balance between utility and comfort, appealing to buyers who wanted SUV versatility without sacrificing daily drivability.

Third Generation (2015–2020): The Shift to 7-Seat Standard

The 2015 redesign marked a turning point. Kia repositioned the Sorento as a premium midsize SUV, focusing on comfort, technology, and ride quality. While three rows were still available, the standard configuration became a 2-3-2 layout—seven seats total. The third row was now clearly designed for children or short-distance travel, with limited legroom and headroom.

Buyers could still opt for an eight-passenger setup by choosing the LX trim with the optional third-row seat package. But most shoppers gravitated toward the seven-seat layout for its improved second-row comfort and easier access to the rear.

Fourth Generation (2021–Present): Modern, Flexible, and Family-Ready

The current Sorento (introduced in 2021) continues the seven-seat standard but offers more customization than ever. All trims come with a 2-3-2 configuration by default. However, on select trims—like the LX and EX—you can choose between second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. Opting for the bench increases seating to eight, though it reduces individual comfort and storage between seats.

Kia has also improved third-row access with a one-touch fold-and-slide mechanism on the second row. This makes it easier for passengers to climb in and out, even with car seats installed up front.

Trim Levels and Seating Options

Not all Sorentos are created equal when it comes to seating. Your trim level plays a major role in determining how many seats your SUV will have—and how comfortable they’ll be.

LX and LXS Trims: The Budget-Friendly Base

The LX and LXS are entry-level trims that offer the most flexibility in seating. Both come standard with seven seats (2-3-2 layout), but the LX gives you the option to upgrade to an eight-passenger configuration by selecting the second-row bench seat instead of captain’s chairs. This is ideal if you’re on a budget but still need that extra seat for carpools or large families.

Keep in mind that the LX lacks some of the premium features found on higher trims, like leather upholstery or advanced climate controls. But for practicality and value, it’s hard to beat.

EX and EX Sport Trims: Balanced Comfort and Space

Stepping up to the EX or EX Sport trim brings more standard features, including synthetic leather seating, dual-zone climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen. These trims also offer the choice between captain’s chairs and a bench in the second row. If you prioritize individual comfort and easier access to the third row, captain’s chairs are the way to go. But if you need eight seats, the bench is available as an option.

The EX Sport adds sport-tuned suspension and unique styling cues, but seating options remain the same as the standard EX.

SX and SX Prestige Trims: Premium Experience, Fixed Layout

At the top of the range, the SX and SX Prestige trims come standard with second-row captain’s chairs and a seven-seat layout. There’s no option for a bench seat here—Kia assumes buyers at this level prioritize luxury and convenience over maximum passenger count.

These trims include premium materials, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance features. The third row is still present, but it’s best suited for occasional use.

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Variants: No Compromise on Seating

Kia offers the Sorento in hybrid (Sorento Hybrid) and plug-in hybrid (Sorento Plug-in Hybrid) versions. You might worry that battery packs would eat into passenger or cargo space—but that’s not the case. Both electrified models maintain the same 2-3-2 seating layout as their gas-powered counterparts.

The hybrid uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, delivering excellent fuel economy without sacrificing interior room. The plug-in hybrid offers even more electric range (up to 32 miles), making it ideal for short commutes. In both cases, you still get seven seats standard, with the option for eight on lower trims.

Third-Row Seating: Practicality vs. Comfort

One of the biggest questions about the Sorento’s seating is whether the third row is actually usable. The short answer: it depends on who’s riding back there.

Who Should Sit in the Third Row?

The third row in the current Sorento is best suited for children under 5 feet tall. Adults will find it cramped, with limited legroom and headroom. That said, it’s perfect for young kids, especially on short trips or errands. If you regularly transport teenagers or adults in the back, you might want to consider a larger SUV like the Kia Telluride.

That doesn’t mean the third row is useless—it’s a valuable asset for families with multiple kids. Imagine dropping off three children at school while keeping two booster seats in the second row. The third row gives you that flexibility without needing a minivan.

Accessing the Third Row

Getting into the third row used to be a hassle in older SUVs. But Kia has made significant improvements. The second-row seats now feature a one-touch tilt-and-slide function. Simply pull a lever, and the entire seat tilts forward and slides, creating a wide pathway to the back.

This feature works even with car seats installed, which is a huge plus for parents. Just make sure to check your car seat’s compatibility with the Sorento’s LATCH system before folding the seat.

Stowing the Third Row

When you don’t need the extra seats, folding the third row is quick and easy. The seats split 50/50, so you can fold one side for a passenger and leave the other down for cargo. They fold flat into the floor, creating a seamless load surface.

With all rear seats folded, the Sorento offers up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space—enough for strollers, luggage, or even small furniture. This makes it a great choice for weekend getaways or home improvement projects.

Cargo Space and Seating Trade-Offs

Every time you add a passenger, you lose a little cargo room. Understanding this balance is key to choosing the right seating configuration.

Cargo Dimensions by Seating Position

With all seats in use (seven or eight passengers), the Sorento offers 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. That’s enough for a few grocery bags or small suitcases—but not much more.

Fold down the third row, and you gain 38.5 cubic feet. That’s suitable for larger items like a stroller, cooler, or weekend bags.

With both the second and third rows folded, you unlock the full 75.5 cubic feet. This rivals some full-size SUVs and is perfect for hauling gear, moving supplies, or packing for a long trip.

Tips for Maximizing Space

– Use soft-sided luggage in the third row to maximize every inch.
– Install a cargo barrier or net to keep items from sliding forward.
– Take advantage of underfloor storage compartments for small items like tools or emergency kits.
– If you rarely use the third row, consider removing it entirely (though this isn’t officially supported by Kia and may void your warranty).

Roof Racks and Cargo Carriers

For extra storage, Kia offers factory-installed roof rails on most trims. You can add crossbars and a roof box, cargo basket, or bike rack. This is a great way to free up interior space without sacrificing passenger comfort.

Just remember that roof cargo affects fuel economy and vehicle height—so watch out for low-clearance parking garages.

Family-Friendly Features That Enhance Seating

The Sorento isn’t just about how many seats it has—it’s about how well those seats work for real families.

Rear Climate Controls

Starting on the EX trim, the Sorento includes rear air vents and climate controls. This lets passengers in the second and third rows adjust their own temperature, reducing arguments and improving comfort on long drives.

USB Charging Ports

Every Sorento comes with multiple USB ports—including in the second and third rows. This keeps devices charged during road trips and reduces the need for bulky power adapters.

Easy-Clean Upholstery

Higher trims offer stain-resistant synthetic leather or genuine leather with protective coatings. These materials are easy to wipe down after spills, making them ideal for families with young children.

Safety Features for Rear Passengers

The Sorento includes rear seatbelt reminders, side-impact airbags for all rows, and LATCH anchors in the second row. Some trims also offer rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring, which help when backing out with passengers in the back.

Used vs. New: What to Expect

If you’re shopping for a used Sorento, seating options will vary widely based on the year and trim.

Older Models (Pre-2015)

Expect to find eight-seat configurations more commonly in used Sorentos from 2014 and earlier. These models often have bench seats in both the second and third rows. However, wear and tear on older interiors may affect comfort and functionality.

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Benefits

Kia’s CPO program includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a thorough inspection. If you’re buying used, a CPO Sorento gives you peace of mind and often includes updated infotainment systems.

Private Seller Tips

When buying from a private seller, ask about seating configuration, third-row usage, and any modifications. Check for signs of water damage or excessive wear in the rear seats, which can indicate heavy use.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Sorento for Your Needs

So, how many seats does a Kia Sorento have? The answer is: usually seven, but sometimes eight—depending on the model year, trim, and options you choose. The current generation prioritizes comfort and flexibility, making it a smart choice for growing families, weekend adventurers, and daily commuters alike.

If you need maximum seating for large families or frequent carpooling, look for an LX or EX trim with the second-row bench option. If you prefer individual comfort and easier access to the third row, captain’s chairs are the better pick. And if you’re eco-conscious, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models deliver excellent efficiency without compromising on space.

Ultimately, the Sorento proves that you don’t need a massive SUV to get serious passenger and cargo versatility. With thoughtful design, smart features, and multiple seating configurations, it strikes a rare balance between practicality and refinement. Whether you’re hauling kids, gear, or both, the Sorento has a seat—and a solution—for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Kia Sorento seat 8 passengers?

Yes, some Kia Sorento models can seat up to eight passengers. This is typically available on lower trims like the LX when you choose the second-row bench seat instead of captain’s chairs. However, most current models are configured for seven seats by default.

Is the third row in the Kia Sorento suitable for adults?

The third row is best suited for children or short trips. Adults will find it cramped due to limited legroom and headroom. It’s ideal for kids under 5 feet tall but not recommended for long-distance travel with grown passengers.

Do hybrid Sorentos have the same seating capacity?

Yes, both the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid maintain the same 2-3-2 seating layout as gas models. You still get seven seats standard, with the option for eight on select trims—no compromise on passenger space.

How much cargo space does the Sorento have with all seats up?

With all three rows in use, the Sorento offers 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. This is enough for small bags or groceries but limited for larger items.

Can I remove the third-row seats in a Kia Sorento?

The third-row seats are not designed to be permanently removed by owners. While they fold flat into the floor, removing them may void your warranty and affect resale value. Kia does not offer an official removal kit.

Which trim offers the most seating flexibility?

The LX and EX trims offer the most flexibility, allowing you to choose between second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. This lets you switch between seven and eight seats based on your needs.