No. The 2016 Sorento uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, not a CVT.
Understanding the transmission setup in 2016 Sorento
In the 2016 Sorento, there were two engine options — a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 3.3-liter V6 — and both were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual shift mode. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) was not offered on any Sorento trim that year.
Here is a concise breakdown of the two engine‑transmission pairings available in the 2016 Sorento:
- 2.4L inline-four engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual shift mode
- 3.3L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission
In summary, the Sorento's drivetrain for 2016 does not include a CVT; it sticks with a traditional automatic design across its engine options.
Why this matters to buyers
Understanding the transmission type can influence expectations for driving feel, maintenance, and resale. The 6-speed automatic delivers traditional gear changes and a familiar throttle response, as opposed to the belt-driven feel some CVTs produce.
Key considerations for buyers evaluating the 2016 Sorento include:
- No CVT option means there is no CVT driving experience to compare against
- Maintenance tends to follow conventional automatic transmission guidelines, with standard ATF service considerations
- Shift feel and repair costs are typically associated with a traditional automatic rather than a CVT
For those specifically seeking a CVT, this model year’s Sorento would not meet that criterion; exploring other Kia models or different years would be necessary to find a CVT option.
Related context on Kia’s lineup
Some Kia models in other segments have used CVTs, but the 2016 Sorento did not. Always verify the exact transmission type for a specific used vehicle, as there can be year-to-year variations or special edition configurations.
Summary
The 2016 Kia Sorento does not have a CVT. It uses a traditional 6-speed automatic transmission with two engine options (2.4L I4 and 3.3L V6). This impacts driving feel, maintenance expectations, and the overall ownership experience compared with CVT-equipped vehicles.