Denza B8 vs Kia Sorento
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Denza B8 starts from $91,000 before on-road costs, while the Kia Sorento opens at $36,490. That makes the Kia Sorento the more affordable entry point by $54,510.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $100,100 and $40,139 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Kia Sorento by roughly $1,000 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Denza B8 and Kia Sorento hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 86% for the Denza B8 and 82% for the Kia Sorento.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Kia Sorento packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Denza B8.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Denza B8 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Kia Sorento. The Kia Sorento counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Denza B8 uses a Petrol Turbo PHEV producing 425kW, sent through a 1-speed auto to a AWD layout.
The Kia Sorento responds with a Petrol making 200kW and 332Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8 seconds.
The Denza B8 has the clear power advantage at 425kW vs 200kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Denza B8 measures 5,195mm long, 380mm longer than the Kia Sorento at 4,815mm (2,815mm wheelbase).
For towing, the Denza B8 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,000kg. That 1,500kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,138/year for the Denza B8 and $1,938/year for the Kia Sorento. That is a $200 annual difference in favour of the Kia Sorento.
Estimated annual total: $2,138 (Denza B8) vs $1,938 (Kia Sorento). The Kia Sorento saves you roughly $200 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 6 years / 150,000km (Denza B8) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Sorento). The Kia Sorento has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Denza B8 if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Denza's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia Sorento if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia Sorento takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Kia Sorento will save you roughly $200 a year in fuel. The Kia Sorento adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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