VS
At a Glance
Power
281hp @ 5800
375hp
Torque
311lb-ft @ 1700
—
Towing
4500lbs
3500lbs
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
—
Choosing between the KIA Sorento and the Subaru Trailseeker is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The KIA Sorento delivers 281hp @ 5800 while the Subaru Trailseeker produces 375hp. Pricing starts at $47,590 for the Sorento and $39,995 for the Trailseeker. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
281hp @ 5800
375hp
Torque (lb-ft)
311lb-ft @ 1700
—
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
—
Cylinders
4
—
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
1
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
20mpg
—
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27mpg
—
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.7gal
—
Dimensions
Length (in)
189in
190.8in
Width (in)
74.8in
73.2in
Height (in)
70.3in
65.9in
Wheelbase (in)
110.8in
112.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
4213lbs
4465lbs
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
4500lbs
3500lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
—
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Subaru Trailseeker
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Trailseeker
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Trailseeker
Practicality
Sorento
Pros & Cons
KIA Sorento
Higher towing capacity (4500lbs)
Higher starting price
Subaru Trailseeker
Lower starting price ($39,995)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Sorento or Trailseeker?
The Sorento produces 281hp @ 5800 and 311lb-ft @ 1700 of torque while the Trailseeker delivers 375hp. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Sorento and Trailseeker?
The Sorento starts from $47,590 and the Trailseeker from $39,995. The Trailseeker is cheaper by $7,595 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Sorento or Trailseeker?
The Sorento has a braked towing capacity of 4500lbs and the Trailseeker can tow 3500lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Sorento or the Trailseeker?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.