The fourth-generation Kia Sorento was unveiled in February 2020 with a US debut following in September 2020. Today, one year after the plug-in-hybrid variant was launched in the UK market, it finally arrived in the US as the most efficient model of the Sorento range which also includes HEV, petrol, and diesel variants.
The Kia Sorento Turbo Plug-in Hybrid powertrain consists of the turbocharged 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine, a 90 hp electric motor, and a 13.8 kWh battery. The combined power output is 261 hp and is transmitted to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic gearbox and the standard AWD system with center locking differential, torque vectoring, and Drive Mode Select. According to Kia, the targeted electric range is 52 km, the overall range is up to 740 km, and the targeted combined economy rating is rated at 79 MPGe (2.97 lt/100 km).
The PHEV variant is distinguished from the rest of the Sorento range only by the charging port located at the rear quarter panel and the eco/plug-in badge on the tailgate. It is available in two trim levels – SX and SX-P. Inside, there is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (in the SX-P) combined with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. Standard equipment includes a suite of 13 ADAS systems including Highway Driving Assist and Navigation Based Smart Cruise Control-Curve. There is also a 360-degree Surround View Monitor, a Bose premium sound system with 12 speakers, UVO link connected services, and 8 USB charging ports for all passengers plus a wireless charging pad. The cabin has 143.8 cubic feet of passenger space, enough for seven people arranged in three rows. The seats are upholstered in the standard Syntex synthetic leather or the optional perforated leather.
The 2022 Sorento Turbo PHEV is expected to arrive in US showrooms in the third quarter of 2021, with pricing to be announced closer to that date. The model will be eligible for the US$ 6,587 Federal Tax Credit and other state incentives, including single rider carpool lane access in California. The Sorento PHEV and HEV variants are produced in Hwasung, Korea.
