Kia Sorento vs. Subaru Outback: Why the 2025 Kia Sorento is the Better SUV for Cheyenne Drivers

If you're searching for a versatile, family-friendly SUV that can handle Cheyenne’s unpredictable weather, rugged trails, and everyday errands, the 2025 Kia Sorento and the Subaru Outback are likely on your shortlist. Both offer available all-wheel drive and are built for adventure, but when it comes to performance, technology, comfort, and long-term value, the Kia Sorento pulls ahead.

At Kia of Cheyenne, we’re proud to offer the bold and refined 2025 Sorento, an SUV that’s just as ready for the school pickup line as it is for a weekend in the Snowy Range. Here’s how it compares to the Subaru Outback and why it's the smarter pick for Wyoming drivers.

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Confident Styling with Adventure in Mind

The 2025 Kia Sorento makes a bold impression with its sleek lines, modern lighting, and available rugged X-Line trims that raise ground clearance and add trail-ready styling. Whether you're parked downtown or exploring Vedauwoo, the Sorento brings refined toughness to every setting.

The Subaru Outback leans heavily into its rugged wagon roots. While it's certainly capable, its design doesn’t match the Sorento’s modern SUV appeal. The Outback’s lower ride height and less sculpted profile give it a more traditional feel, without the visual excitement of the Sorento's adventurous stance.

Why the Sorento Wins:

• More assertive SUV styling with X-Line upgrades
• Higher available ground clearance for off-road trails
• More modern, upscale curb appeal

Spacious and Upscale Interior for Growing Families

Inside, the Sorento shines with a roomy and sophisticated cabin that seats up to seven passengers. Families will appreciate the available second-row captain’s chairs, up to 75.5 cubic feet of cargo space, and thoughtful touches like a panoramic digital gauge cluster and premium material choices.

The Outback offers a roomy two-row setup with ample cargo space, but it falls short when you need seating for more than five. For larger families or those who regularly carpool or road trip, the Sorento's third-row seating and flexible layout are big advantages.

Sorento Interior Highlights:

• Three-row seating with available second-row captain’s chairs
• Large 10.25-inch touchscreen and optional 12.3-inch digital display
• Available heated/ventilated front and second-row seats
• More overall passenger capacity and cargo versatility

Powertrains That Fit Your Life and Your Commute

The Sorento offers three distinct powertrain options to suit a wide range of driving styles: a standard 2.5L engine, a 2.5L turbocharged upgrade, and fuel-saving hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models. You can even get AWD on hybrid trims, a rare feature in the segment.

The Subaru Outback comes with two gasoline engine choices, a base 2.5L and a turbocharged 2.4L, but offers no hybrid or plug-in variant. That means if you’re looking for serious fuel savings or electric-only commuting, the Sorento is the better fit.

Why the Sorento Wins:

• Hybrid and PHEV options for better fuel economy
• AWD available on most trims, including electrified versions
• Up to 32 miles of all-electric range with the Sorento PHEV

Cutting-Edge Technology and Driver Assistance

From entry-level to top-tier trims, the Sorento is packed with intuitive tech. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are standard, and the available 12.3-inch digital cluster and 10.25-inch touchscreen add a premium feel to the cockpit. Kia’s Drive Wise suite offers advanced features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Smart Cruise Control.

While the Outback’s STARLINK® system is competent, it can feel less user-friendly and requires wired smartphone integration in many trims. Subaru’s EyeSight® safety tech is strong, but advanced options like a 360° camera or fully digital displays are limited.

Sorento Tech Advantages:

• Standard wireless smartphone connectivity
• More immersive screen options across trim levels
• Available Bose® premium audio system
• More high-end features on mid-range models

Value That Goes the Extra Mile

The 2025 Sorento not only starts at a more affordable price than the Outback but also includes more features at each trim level. And Kia’s class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty gives you significantly more coverage than Subaru’s 5-year/60,000-mile plan.

For Cheyenne drivers who want long-term peace of mind, the Sorento delivers better warranty protection and stronger overall value — especially for families investing in a hybrid or PHEV.

Warranty Comparison:

• Kia: 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Subaru: 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty

Why the Sorento Wins:

• Better warranty and longer-term reliability coverage
• More features for the price across trim levels
• Strong resale value and ownership savings

5 Scenic Adventures to Explore in Your 2025 Kia Sorento

The 2025 Sorento is built for more than just commuting — it's your passport to the great outdoors. Here are five Cheyenne-area getaways where the Sorento truly shines:

1. Vedauwoo Recreation Area – Known for its massive rock formations and off-road paths, it’s a perfect match for the Sorento X-Line.
2. Curt Gowdy State Park – Paddleboard, fish, or bike with plenty of room for gear in your Sorento.
3. Terry Bison Ranch – A fun destination just minutes away, ideal for families.
4. Pole Mountain Area – Bring your hiking boots or snowshoes — the Sorento gets you there in all seasons.
5. Happy Jack Road Scenic Byway – The panoramic views pair perfectly with the Sorento’s comfortable ride and responsive performance.

Why Buy Your 2025 Sorento from Kia of Cheyenne?

At Kia of Cheyenne, we’re committed to helping our community find the perfect vehicle for work, play, and family life. With a large selection of Sorento trims, including hybrid and plug-in options, you’ll find exactly what you need, backed by friendly service and fair prices.

✔️ Wide range of trims, from value-packed LX to X-Line and SX Prestige

✔️ Affordable local financing options and trade-in support

✔️ Convenient Cheyenne location and certified Kia service team

✔️ Committed to exceptional customer care from start to finish

Whether you're commuting across town or gearing up for a weekend in the mountains, the 2025 Kia Sorento offers more capability, comfort, and flexibility than the Subaru Outback — and it’s waiting for you right here at Kia of Cheyenne.

👉 Browse New Kia Sorento Inventory at Kia of Cheyenne

👉 Explore All New Kias at Kia of Cheyenne