2026 Kia Sorento Sport vs 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring

Published February 2026

2026 Kia Sorento Sport vs 2023 Mazda CX-9 Touring Close

A Comprehensive Cars Comparison by Cars4us

Two very different propositions define this kia sorento vs mazda cx-9 decision. The 2026 Sorento Sport Hybrid AWD is a current-generation buy with a hybrid drivetrain and a 7-year warranty. The 2023 CX-9 Touring AWD is near-new used. Mazda discontinued the CX-9 in Australia at the end of 2023, but near-new examples offer premium cabin quality at a price well below the Sorento's sticker.

Powertrain & Performance

Sorento Sport

8.5/10

The Sorento Sport Hybrid AWD pairs a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor for 169kW and 350Nm through a 6-speed automatic. The hybrid system delivers composed low-speed torque, and AWD traction is standard for varied conditions.

CX-9 Touring

8/10

The CX-9 Touring AWD runs a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol producing 170kW and 420Nm through a 6-speed automatic. The torque advantage is noticeable and the CX-9 drives with linear confidence. It is a conventional petrol-only system with no electrification on offer.
Verdict: In a Kia Sorento vs Mazda CX-9 powertrain comparison, the Sorento's hybrid system is the more modern and efficient proposition.

Interior Comfort & Features

Sorento Sport

7.5/10

The Sorento Sport's cabin centres on a dual 12.3-inch digital display covering infotainment and instruments. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with dual-zone climate control. At Sport grade, seats are fabric and heated fronts require stepping to Sport+.

CX-9 Touring

8.5/10

The CX-9 Touring is where Mazda's interior reputation earns its keep. Leather upholstery and heated front seats are standard, and the cabin materials feel genuinely premium. The 9-inch infotainment screen is the clear limitation against the Sorento's dual setup.
Verdict: The Sorento wins on screen tech; the CX-9 Touring wins on tactile quality and standard comfort at this trim level.

Space & Practicality

Sorento Sport

7.5/10

The Sorento recovers on flexibility: fold everything flat and 1,996 litres of load space opens up. The hybrid AWD system also gives it stronger all-conditions capability.

CX-9 Touring

8/10

The CX-9's 5,075mm body and 2,930mm wheelbase give it a more generous rear environment than the Sorento. Boot space with the third row in use is 230 litres in the CX-9 against 179 litres in the Sorento, a 51-litre gap that matters for family loads. The CX-9 also leads on towing at 2,000kg braked, compared to the Sorento's 1,650kg.
Verdict: The CX-9 has more boot space and a stronger tow rating; the Sorento is the more versatile kia sorento vs mazda cx-9 all-rounder.

Fuel Economy

Sorento Sport

9/10

The Kia Sorento Hybrid delivers a claimed combined fuel consumption figure of 5.7L/100km, offering a significant efficiency advantage for families covering regular daily kilometres. Over time, the reduced fuel usage can translate into meaningful savings compared to a traditional petrol-powered large SUV.

CX-9 Touring

6.5/10

The Mazda CX-9 Touring AWD is rated at a claimed 8.8L/100km combined. While this is competitive for a seven-seat turbo-petrol SUV, it falls noticeably behind the Sorento Hybrid when it comes to fuel efficiency. For buyers comparing the Kia Sorento vs Mazda CX-9, ongoing fuel costs may be an important factor, particularly for those planning to keep the vehicle for several years or undertake frequent long-distance travel.
The Sorento's hybrid drivetrain delivers a decisive fuel economy advantage.

Safety

Sorento Sport

8.5/10

The Kia Sorento carries a 5-star ANCAP safety rating and comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies. Standard safety features include Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Following Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, providing strong peace of mind for family buyers.

CX-9 Touring

7/10

The Mazda CX-9 also holds a 5-star ANCAP safety rating and includes a broad range of active safety technologies as standard. Features such as AEB, Blind Spot Monitoring, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert contribute to its strong safety credentials. When comparing the Kia Sorento vs Mazda CX-9, both SUVs offer excellent occupant protection and driver assistance technology, making safety a strength for either choice.
Verdict: Both carry 5-star ratings, but the Sorento's 2020 assessment against modern standards carries greater weight in this kia sorento vs mazda cx-9 safety comparison.

Price & Value

Sorento Sport

8/10

The 2026 Sorento Sport Hybrid AWD combines a fuel-efficient hybrid drivetrain with Kia's 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and capped-price servicing programme, helping to reduce ownership costs and provide long-term peace of mind.

CX-9 Touring

8.5/10

The Mazda CX-9 Touring AWD remains an appealing option for buyers seeking a spacious seven-seat SUV with proven reliability, strong performance, and a premium feel. While fuel consumption is higher than the Sorento Hybrid, the CX-9 continues to offer a comfortable and practical family-focused driving experience. When comparing the Kia Sorento vs Mazda CX-9, buyers should weigh the benefits of hybrid efficiency and newer technology against the CX-9's established reputation and engaging driving dynamics.
Verdict: The Sorento is the stronger new-car ownership proposition; the CX-9 is exceptional value for buyers shopping pre-owned.

Our Verdict

Sport 8.2/10

Touring 7.8/10

If you want a current-generation hybrid SUV with a 7-year warranty, modern safety credentials, and lower running costs, the 2026 Kia Sorento Sport Hybrid AWD is the clear choice.

If you want a premium-feeling seven-seater with leather seats, a refined cabin, and strong upfront value, the 2023 CX-9 Touring sits well below the Sorento's drive-away price in the near-new used market.

Both shine in their own ways. The right pick in this kia sorento vs mazda cx-9 decision comes down to whether you prioritise new-car peace of mind, or premium used quality at a price that is hard to ignore.

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