Since its inception, Kia has existed without a luxury badge above it. Only recently has this been a point of interest, as Kia’s build-quality, design and feature sets have surpassed with drivers expect from mass-market brands like Hyundai, Honda and Toyota. While those brands have all introduced a luxury line that prevents models with their badge on them from getting “too nice,” Kia isn’t afraid to throw everything they’ve got into Kia-badged vehicles. This means, you often get better features in a higher-range Kia than you might in a base model from another manufacturers’ luxury line.
Today, we’re comparing the Kia Sorento to the third-row, midsize crossover from Honda’s luxury line, the Acura MDX. While the Kia Sorento brings value and style to the segment, it’s a surprising competitor with the entry-luxury likes of the MDX. Let’s see how that breaks down:
2019 Kia Sorento V6 |
Vs. |
2019 Acura MDX |
---|---|---|
3.3-liter V6 (290 horsepower) | Engine (horsepower) | 3.5-liter V6 (290 horsepower) |
Up to 5,000 lbs. | Towing capacity | Up to 3,500 lbs. |
154 cubic feet/three rows | Passenger space | 133 cubic feet/three rows |
44.1 inches/39.4 inches | Legroom (front/rear) | 41.4 inches/38.5 inches |
Standard | Blind-spot monitor system | Available |
Top Safety Pick + | IIHS safety designation | Top Safety Pick |
10 years/100,000 miles | Engine/powertrain warranty | 6 years/70,000 miles |
$31,290 | MSRP starts at | $44,300 |
As you can see in the above chart, the 2019 Kia Sorento doesn’t care that the 2019 Acura MDX is an entry-luxury model. It just doesn’t look at the Acura badge with any more admiration than it does the Honda badge on the platform-mate Honda Pilot. Rather than bowing down to the façade of a luxury badge, the Kia Sorento squares up to the MDX and comes out solidly ahead as a stronger option.
From the base V6 model up, you get equal horsepower, more towing capacity and a larger passenger compartment with more room for individuals and families alike.
In terms of technology, while both models offer standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, the 2019 Kia Sorento bolsters its safety rating with a standard Blind-Spot Monitor System. On the 2019 Acura MDX, such a system will cost you.
Speaking of cost, the 2019 Kia Sorento V6 comes in at $13,000+ less than the 2019 Acura MDX starts at. Couple that with the extra four years/30,000 miles of warranty coverage and the value winner is clear.
For more information on the 2019 Kia Sorento or to schedule a test drive, contact us today!