KIA is set to take the battle for SUV supremacy to its eco-friendly focused rivals, with the launch of the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) GT-Line; an ultra-low emissions version of the brand’s flagship global SUV.
Engineered to take on everything life throws at it, the new Sorento PHEV GT-Line combines practicality with the lowest emissions in the Sorento range. It’s also the only vehicle in the mainstream large SUV segment to offer petrol, diesel and PHEV options.
The Sorento PHEV GT-Line is the first electrified model in the Sorento line-up, with its powertrain combining a turbocharged engine with a high-capacity battery pack and high output electric motor.
With a fully charged battery, the powertrain enables drivers to complete shorter drives on all-electric, zero-emissions power. The platform that underpins the fourth generation Sorento has also been designed from the outset to accommodate electrified powertrains.
It also retains the generous cabin and luggage space and five-and-seven-seat layouts that define other models in the line-up.
“Along with Niro range, the Sorento PHEV is another stride in the right direction towards a greener future. With the introduction of Sorento HEV and the highly anticipated EV6 next year, Kia will be lifting the electric vehicle benchmark to an all-time high,” Kia’s chief operating officer Damien Meredith said.
The Sorento PHEV’s ‘Smartstream’ 1.6-litre turbocharged engine and transmission mounted electric motor offers optimal fuel efficiency with impressive power (195kW) and torque (350Nm) outputs.
The electric motor, producing 304Nm of torque, is mounted between the petrol engine and transmission, allowing the full output of both the petrol engine and/or electric motor to be transferred in parallel through the transmission with minimal energy loss.
With the integrated Type 2 charging socket, you can use the standard 3-pin cable supplied with the PHEV – Type 2 to Type 2 cable or the charging point’s own cable.
Whichever you choose, simply plug-in and the LED light located near the charging point will present the charging status and battery level making it ideal for knowing the status of the battery immediately.
A bespoke charging cable for charging at home from a normal household socket will be provided as well as an in-cable control box to help moderate the amperage to ensure complete safety.
New for the fourth generation, and standard on the PHEV GT-Line variant, the latest Sorento models offer enhanced all-terrain capability thanks to a new Terrain Mode, providing Mud, Snow and Sand modes at the turn of a dial.
The system automatically optimises the drivetrain to best suit each scenario, adjusting engine torque output and distribution as well as stability control characteristics. Terrain Mode also adjusts shift timings for the six-speed automatic to suit different surfaces.
Energy storage is managed by a 14kWh Lithium-ion polymer battery pack located under the vehicle floor. The large battery capacity allows the PHEV to travel up to 68km on electric power.
Monitoring the various functions of the Sorento’s electric drive systems is made easy by the clear displays of the battery and charging status on the class-leading 10.25-inch navigation display and 12.3-inch driver digital cluster.
The former displays nearby charging station locations and information. The screen can be split in two for easy access to applications, vehicle information and multimedia content as well. It also lets you to control the 12-speaker BOSE premium surround sound audio.
And, like all Sorento variants, it’s compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The 12.3-inch driver digital cluster is an intelligently designed, customisable supervision cluster providing the status of the hybrid charging system, including fuel and battery levels and use.
Its high-resolution screen makes it easy to read a wealth of information at a glance.
Being the first electrified Sorento means that EV and HEV mode is interchangeable. In EV mode, ideal for urban driving – it uses only electric energy for zero-fuel, emissions-free driving.
In HEV mode, it operates both energy sources, the engine and the electric motor simultaneously.
The new Kia Sorento PHEV is offered in GT-Line trim only, and will be fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels. It will be available in seven colours. As a GT-Line AWD offering, the Sorento PHEV will include a black interior trim coupled with quilted Nappa leather-appointed seats.
It’s priced at $81,990 drive away. Further details are available from your local Kia dealer.
