KIA Sorento vs Mazda CX 9: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare KIA Sorento vs Mazda CX 9 – In the ever-growing SUV market, the demand for 3-row SUVs has surged due to their versatile nature and family-friendly features.

Among the top contenders in this segment are the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9. Both vehicles offer impressive performance, advanced technology, and spacious interiors.

In this article, we will delve into a detailed comparison of these two popular SUVs to help you make an informed decision.

What is the Difference Between KIA Sorento and Mazda CX 9?

The KIA Sorento and the Mazda CX-9 are both popular 3-row SUVs, but they have distinct differences that set them apart. Here are the key dissimilarities between these two vehicles:

Pricing

The pricing of the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 plays a crucial role in the decision-making process for potential buyers.

The 2023 KIA Sorento offers an attractive starting price of $30,090. This base price includes the standard features and equipment offered in the entry-level trim.

As buyers move up to higher trim levels and add optional packages, the price will increase accordingly.

The KIA Sorento’s competitive starting price makes it an appealing option for budget-conscious shoppers who still desire a feature-packed SUV.

In comparison, the 2023 Mazda CX-9 starts at $38,750, positioning it at a higher price point than the KIA Sorento.

The CX-9’s starting price reflects its premium positioning in the SUV market. As with the Sorento, opting for higher trim levels and additional features will lead to an increase in the overall price.

Read also: Mazda CX 5 vs KIA Sportage

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is a critical consideration for SUV buyers, especially in an era where environmental consciousness and cost-saving measures are prioritized.

The 2023 KIA Sorento offers commendable fuel efficiency, particularly in its all-wheel-drive configuration with the turbocharged engine.

According to EPA estimates, the all-wheel-drive Sorento equipped with the turbocharged engine returns 24 mpg combined (22 city/27 highway). During a mixed-driving evaluation covering 115 miles, it achieved an average of 25.2 mpg.

Notably, the turbocharged Sorento does not require premium gasoline, providing added convenience and potential savings at the pump.

While the KIA Sorento may not match the fuel efficiency figures of compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, it performs admirably when compared to other similarly powerful SUVs like the Honda Passport and Subaru Ascent.

Its fuel economy is competitive in its class and provides a practical balance between performance and efficiency.

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 stands out for its solid acceleration performance and noteworthy fuel efficiency, outperforming many of its rivals.

The front-wheel-drive CX-9 earned EPA estimates of 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

Opting for the all-wheel-drive configuration results in a slight decrease in both city and highway figures by 2 mpg, with an EPA-rated 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

During a real-world highway fuel-economy test, the all-wheel-drive CX-9 matched its EPA-rated 26-mpg figure, reinforcing its reputation for delivering on its promised efficiency.

The CX-9’s fuel economy figures position it competitively within the midsize SUV segment, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.

Dimensions

When choosing an SUV, the dimensions are crucial as they determine the vehicle’s overall size, interior space, and practicality. Let’s compare the dimensions of the KIA Sorento vs Mazda CX 9:

KIA Sorento Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

Mazda CX-9 Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

The dimensions of the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 reveal their unique characteristics and practicality.

The KIA Sorento, with its slightly more compact size, is well-suited for urban driving and maneuvering in tight spaces.

It offers a spacious interior with comfortable front and rear seating dimensions, making it an ideal family-friendly SUV.

On the other hand, the Mazda CX-9’s larger dimensions provide a more spacious interior, allowing for additional legroom and cargo capacity.

The CX-9’s size and towing capacity makes it suitable for families with a need for more cargo space or those looking to tow trailers for recreational activities.

Read also: Hyundai Tucson vs Mazda CX 5

Colors Options

The choice of exterior and interior colors is a significant factor for many SUV buyers, as it allows them to personalize their vehicle according to their preferences and style.

Let’s explore the available color options for the Mazda CX-9 vs KIA Sorento:

– Mazda CX-9 Colors:

Exterior Colors:

• Sonic Silver Metallic: The silver metallic finish enhances the CX-9’s modern and sleek appearance, giving it a contemporary edge.
• Jet Black Mica: The deep black mica finish adds a sense of sophistication and luxury to the CX-9’s exterior, making it an eye-catching choice.
• Snowflake White Pearl Mica: This pearl white finish exudes elegance and refinement, giving the CX-9 a premium and upscale look.
• Machine Gray Metallic: The metallic gray color adds a sense of modernity and versatility to the SUV’s appearance, making it a popular choice.
• Soul Red Crystal Metallic: The vibrant red metallic finish enhances the CX-9’s sporty and dynamic appeal, making it a bold option for enthusiasts.
• Deep Crystal Blue Mica: This deep blue mica finish exudes a sense of tranquility and sophistication, giving the CX-9 a captivating presence.

Interior Colors:

The 2023 Mazda CX-9 offers two interior color options:

• Black Leather: The black leather interior adds a touch of luxury and refinement to the cabin, providing a premium seating experience for passengers.
• Sand Leather: The sand-colored leather interior creates a warm and inviting ambiance, giving the CX-9’s cabin a cozy and comfortable feel.

– KIA Sorento Colors:

Exterior Colors:

Ebony Black: This classic black color exudes elegance and sophistication, providing a timeless appeal to the KIA Sorento.
Passion Red: The vibrant red hue adds a touch of boldness and energy to the SUV’s exterior, making it stand out on the road.
Everlasting Silver: The silver color offers a sleek and modern look, enhancing the Sorento’s overall stylish appearance.
Gravity Gray: This cool gray shade exudes a sense of sophistication and refinement, making the SUV appear upscale.
Glacial White Pearl: The white pearl finish creates a sense of luxury and purity, elevating the KIA Sorento’s visual appeal.

Interior Colors:

The 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 offer a variety of appealing exterior and interior color options, allowing buyers to tailor their SUVs to their individual tastes and preferences.

The 2023 KIA Sorento comes with a standard black cloth interior, providing a comfortable and stylish cabin environment.

The black color adds a touch of elegance and timelessness to the interior, complementing the exterior color choices.

Whether one prefers a classic and timeless look, a vibrant and bold appearance, or a modern and sophisticated style, both the Sorento and the CX-9 deliver a range of colors to suit various tastes.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for SUV buyers, and both the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 are equipped with advanced safety technologies designed to provide peace of mind and protect occupants on the road.

Let’s explore the standard and available safety features offered by each SUV:

KIA Sorento:

• Standard Forward-Collision Warning and Automated Emergency Braking: The KIA Sorento comes standard with a forward-collision warning, which alerts the driver of potential front-end collisions. It is complemented by automated emergency braking, which can apply the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent, reducing the risk of an accident or mitigating its severity.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning and Lane-Keeping Assist: The Sorento also includes a lane-departure warning, which alerts the driver when the vehicle drifts out of its lane unintentionally. Additionally, lane-keeping assist actively intervenes by providing steering assistance to keep the SUV within the lane’s boundaries, enhancing safety during highway driving.

• Available Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: For added awareness and convenience, the KIA Sorento offers available blind-spot monitoring, which detects vehicles in the SUV’s blind spots and provides visual or audible alerts. The rear cross-traffic alert system warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of parking spaces, reducing the risk of collisions.

Mazda CX-9:

• Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: The Mazda CX-9 comes standard with automated emergency braking, which includes pedestrian detection. This system can detect pedestrians in the vehicle’s path and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate collisions with pedestrians.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The CX-9 also features a standard lane-departure warning, which alerts the driver if the vehicle veers out of its lane unintentionally. Lane-keeping assist helps the driver maintain the intended lane by providing steering assistance as needed.

• Standard Adaptive Cruise Control: The CX-9 includes standard adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead. This system automatically adjusts the SUV’s speed to match the traffic flow, promoting a safer and more relaxed driving experience on long journeys.

Both the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features aimed at enhancing driver awareness and preventing accidents.

These driver-assistance technologies provide valuable support, especially in challenging driving situations and on long trips.

Warranty

Both the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 come with competitive warranty plans, ensuring buyers have a level of protection and support during the early years of ownership.

The KIA Sorento’s impressive warranty coverage, including a five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, reflects Kia’s commitment to standing behind the quality and durability of their SUV.

• Limited Warranty: Kia provides an impressive limited warranty that covers the 2023 Sorento for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This comprehensive warranty offers coverage for various components and systems, providing added protection during the initial years of ownership.

• Powertrain Warranty: In addition to the limited warranty, Kia offers a robust powertrain warranty that covers the Sorento’s powertrain components for ten years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. This extensive coverage is a testament to the confidence Kia has in the durability and reliability of the SUV’s powertrain.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: However, it’s important to note that unlike its corporate counterpart, Hyundai, Kia does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance for the Sorento. While some competitors may include free scheduled maintenance as part of their offerings, Kia’s warranty plan focuses primarily on its comprehensive limited and powertrain warranty coverage.

On the other hand, the Mazda CX-9’s warranty plan, which includes a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, provides adequate coverage for essential components.

While the CX-9 does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance like some competitors, it compensates with its reputation for reliability and driving enjoyment.

• Limited Warranty: Mazda provides an adequate limited warranty for the 2023 CX-9, covering the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This standard coverage offers protection against defects and issues that may arise during the initial ownership period.

Powertrain Warranty: The CX-9 also comes with a powertrain warranty that covers the SUV’s powertrain components for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This powertrain coverage provides added reassurance regarding the reliability and performance of the CX-9’s engine and drivetrain.

• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: Unlike some of its competitors like the GMC Acadia and Toyota Highlander, Mazda does not include complimentary scheduled maintenance as part of its warranty plan. While scheduled maintenance may offer added convenience and cost-saving benefits, Mazda’s warranty plan focuses on providing coverage for essential components and systems.

Read also: Mazda CX 30 vs Ford Escape

Specifications

The specifications of a vehicle are essential in understanding its performance capabilities and overall driving experience. Let’s compare the specifications of the 2023 KIA Sorento vs 2023 Mazda CX-9:

– KIA Sorento Specs:

– Mazda CX-9 Specs:

Both the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 offer competent engine options and performance capabilities.

The KIA Sorento’s 2.5-liter engine provides sufficient power for daily driving needs, while the Mazda CX-9’s 2.5-liter engine delivers higher horsepower and torque, offering a more robust driving experience.

The transmission and drive type also differ between the two SUVs, with the KIA Sorento featuring an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

While the Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Pros and Cons

Both the 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 have their unique strengths and weaknesses.

Understanding the pros and cons of each SUV will help potential buyers make an informed decision based on their preferences and priorities.

KIA Sorento Pros:

• Abundance of Standard and Optional Features: The KIA Sorento offers an impressive array of standard features and optional upgrades, making it a value-packed choice for buyers looking for a well-equipped SUV.
• Ample Second- and Third-Row Legroom for the Class: The Sorento provides generous legroom in both the second and third rows, ensuring comfortable seating for passengers, even on longer journeys.
• Sharp-Looking and Easy-to-Use Infotainment System: The SUV’s infotainment system boasts a sleek design and user-friendly interface, making it convenient and enjoyable to interact with while on the road.
• Powerful Available Turbocharged Engine: The optional turbocharged engine delivers robust performance, offering satisfying acceleration and passing power for a more engaging driving experience.

Cons:

• Base Engine’s Lackluster Acceleration: The base engine’s acceleration may feel underwhelming for some drivers, especially when compared to the more powerful optional engine.

Mazda CX-9 Pros:

• Premium Interior, Especially in the Top-Level Signature Trim: The Mazda CX-9 features a high-quality interior with premium materials, particularly in the top-level Signature trim, providing a luxurious and upscale feel.
• Strong Acceleration and Sporty Handling: The CX-9 impresses with its powerful engine and nimble handling, delivering a sporty driving experience rarely found in the midsize SUV segment.
• Comfortable and Quiet on the Highway: The CX-9’s well-insulated cabin and smooth ride make it an excellent choice for long highway drives, offering a quiet and comfortable journey.

Cons:

• Less Cargo Capacity Than Competitors: The CX-9’s cargo capacity is somewhat limited compared to some rivals, potentially restricting storage for larger items or when all three rows are in use.
• Third-Row Seats Aren’t Especially Accommodating: While the CX-9 offers a third row for additional passenger capacity, the space may feel cramped for taller adults, making it better suited for children or occasional use.

Conclusion

The 2023 KIA Sorento and the 2023 Mazda CX-9 are formidable contenders in the 3-row SUV market, each offering distinct advantages and appealing features.

By thoroughly examining them, you can confidently choose the SUV that aligns best with your lifestyle and driving needs.

Whether you prioritize value, luxury, performance, or safety, both SUVs have much to offer, making them worthy competitors in their class.

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