2021 Kia Sorento PHEV revealed; boasts high power and low emissions

KUALA LUMPUR: In February this year, Kia unveiled the next-generation Sorento model, available in gasoline, diesel, and hybrid versions. At that time, the automaker confirmed that the brand's flagship SUV will soon get an ultra-low emissions iteration and made the expectations high by mentioning, "a powerful plug-in hybrid."

Fast forward to today, Kia pulled the wraps off the Sorento PHEV for the first time. The plug-in version comes with a combination of a powerful turbocharged petrol engine, high capacity battery pack, and high output electric motor, enabling the drivers to cover shorter drives on all-electric, zero-emissions power mode.

Apart from the lowest-emitting model in the Sorento lineup, PHEV is also the most powerful as expected. It is powered by a 1.6-litre T-GDi engine producing 180 PS of power and 265 Nm of torque. The engine is coupled with a high-capacity 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack and an electric motor generating 66.9 kW and 304 Nm torque. All the components make a combined system output of 264 PS and 350 Nm. 

A 6-speed automatic gearbox sends power to all four wheels. According to the automaker, the transmission deploys the engine and motor's full power in parallel, which results in minimal loss of energy and immediate acceleration responses at any speed.

Other things remain the same visually except for 'eco plug-in' badges and the presence of a charging port. The same 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system will now feature charge port finder functionality, and the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel will display the required information for the new powertrain.

Like the other Sorento models, the PHEV will also be available in five and seven seating layouts. Despite the new battery pack being positioned at the rear of the vehicle, it delivers 898 litres of luggage space with two rows in place.

Pablo Martinez Masip, Director of Product Planning and Pricing at Kia Motors Europe, comments: "Plug-in models continue to grow in popularity across Europe, and the new Sorento will be one of the most spacious, practical, and versatile electrified models available."

The new Sorento PHEV will be built for Europe and other markets at Kia's Hwasung manufacturing plant in Korea. It is expected to hit the European showrooms in early 2021.

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