The new Kia Sorento PHEV shows us its range and consumption

Victor Alós Yus @sepelaci 22 December 2020 2 min.

The new Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid has started production in Korea and will soon reach all international markets with a new powertrain.

The Kia Sorento enters a new era, and production has now started on the new plug-in hybrid version of this Korean SUV, whose entire history we recently reviewed. Production of this new version of the model has already begun in Korea and it will soon reach all markets with a new plug-in hybrid propulsion system. And now it is time for the new features of this model to be revealed.

This new version of the Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid replaces the version currently on the market and improves its characteristics. It is a large SUV with seven seats, so it is fitted with a combustion engine with enough power to move its weight with ease and agility.

Plug-in hybrid engine

The plug-in hybrid drive system of the new Kia Sorento consists of a 1.6-litre TGDi combustion engine (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) that delivers 180 CV and a maximum torque of 265 Nm. The electric motor has a power of 67 kW and a maximum torque of 340 Nm. Working together, the plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers a power of 265 CV and a maximum torque of 350 Nm.

The engine is powered by a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery that allows the Sorento plug-in hybrid to achieve a fully electric range of 57 kilometres under the WLTP cycle, while in urban use it can reach 70 kilometres according to the EAER city standard. For charging, buyers can opt for the KiaCharge charging network, which makes the process easier.

Looking at emissions, the new Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid records only 38 g/km of CO2, making it the most eco-friendly and sustainable variant of the entire Sorento range. Drive can be sent to the front axle or to both axles when required. The improved six-speed gearbox helps it to drive better and deliver better performance.

The Sorento’s 67-litre fuel tank is located under the floor, in the second row of seats. The 3.3 kW charger is located under the boot floor, and the batteries are under the driver’s and front passenger’s seats, so that all the components are properly distributed and improve cabin comfort.

The new Kia Sorento will arrive on the European and Spanish markets in early 2021, so we will not have to wait long to start enjoying it.