Jones Kia - Which SUV has the better third row and family tech, 2026 Kia Sorento or 2026 Ford Explorer, around Laurel, MD?
Families around Laurel, MD often ask whether the Sorento or Explorer is the more comfortable, tech-savvy three-row SUV for daily life. Both offer seating for six or seven, but their execution differs in ways that matter. Sorento leans into versatility with standard 3rd-row seating, available 2nd-row captain’s chairs, and up to 75.5 cu. ft. of cargo space with both back rows folded. On the tech front, Sorento offers an available Dual Panoramic Display w/ Navigation with approximately 24 inches of combined screen real estate, standard Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Wireless Android Auto™, and available visibility aids like a 360° Surround View Monitor, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and a Full Display Digital Rearview Mirror. Explorer answers with a refreshed interior, an ample 13.2-inch center touchscreen, many USB ports, and optional BlueCruise on select trims. However, its third row remains tight for adults and taller teens, and several of its most desirable features are limited to higher trims.
If your priority is a cabin that feels calm and intuitive in the morning rush, Sorento’s available acoustic laminated front glass, heated and ventilated front seats, heated 2nd-row seats, and an available panoramic sunroof create a smart, serene environment. For families who haul gear and people, Sorento’s one-touch second-row slide for easier 3rd-row access is a daily convenience you won’t want to give up. When it’s time to load the cargo area, the available hands-free Smart Power Lift gate w/ Auto Close saves time by opening as it senses your key and automatically closing when you walk away with the smart key fob. The available all-wheel drive w/ Terrain Mode and, in X-Pro guise, factory all-terrain tires and 8.2 inches of ground clearance, provide stability on wintry commutes and confidence for weekend detours.
- Third-row comfort: Sorento’s standard 3rd row and easy-access mechanism help families rotate passengers with less fuss, while Explorer’s third row remains tighter for long rides.
- Family-friendly visibility: Sorento’s available Blind-Spot View Monitor, 360° Surround View Monitor, and Full Display Digital Rearview Mirror improve situational awareness when the vehicle is full.
- Everyday tech integration: Sorento’s available Dual Panoramic Display and standard Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Wireless Android Auto™ streamline routines; Explorer offers a large center screen but not the same panoramic display approach.
- Loading and unloading: Sorento’s available Smart Power Lift gate w/ Auto Close is a set-it-and-walk-away convenience families quickly rely on.
- All-weather assurance: Sorento’s available AWD w/ Terrain Mode and X-Pro hardware add year-round confidence for school runs and weekend travel.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the Sorento have enough third-row space for teens?
For day-to-day carpooling, Sorento’s third row is well suited to younger passengers and short-to-medium trips for teens. Its one-touch slide second row eases access, and the cabin’s available heated 2nd-row seats, panoramic sunroof, and quiet cabin help everyone stay comfortable.
Which model offers better everyday visibility features?
Sorento offers available Blind-Spot View Monitor that displays a live camera feed in the gauge cluster, a 360° Surround View Monitor, and a Full Display Digital Rearview Mirror. These features work together to make lane changes, parking, and reversing feel more controlled and less stressful.
How do the infotainment systems compare?
Sorento’s available Dual Panoramic Display w/ Navigation provides approximately 24 inches of combined screen space, paired with standard Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Wireless Android Auto™. Explorer offers a large 13.2-inch center touchscreen and broad device support, but it does not match Sorento’s panoramic display approach.
What helps with loading and unloading kids and cargo?
Sorento’s available hands-free Smart Power Lift gate w/ Auto Close opens automatically as it senses your key and can close automatically when the smart key fob moves away, which is especially helpful when juggling backpacks and groceries.
Is there an advantage in all-weather traction?
With available all-wheel drive w/ Terrain Mode, Sorento adapts to low-grip surfaces with confidence. The X-Pro model adds factory all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance for additional stability on rougher routes and snowy streets.
For shoppers seeking an SUV that makes the family routine easier—loading, seating flexibility, visibility, and intuitive tech—Sorento comes together as a cohesive package. Jones Kia offers a product walk-through tailored to your daily drives and weekend plans, serving Laurel, Glen Burnie, and Catonsville with knowledgeable guidance and a friendly, test-drive-first approach.