The new Sorento is the second electrified model in the Sorento line-up, and sits alongside the low-emissions Sorento Hybrid.
The new variant combines a powerful turbocharged gasoline engine with a high capacity battery pack and high output electric motor, giving drivers the ability to complete shorter drives on all-electric, zero-emissions power.
The beating heart of its ‘turbo hybrid’ powertrain is its 1.6-litre T-GDi (turbocharged gasoline direct injection) engine, which, on its own, produces up to 180ps and 265Nm torque.
The engine is paired with a high-capacity 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack and a powerful electric motor which produces 66.9kW and 304Nm torque.
Combined, these powertrain components enable the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s powertrain to produce up to 261hp and 350Nm torque.
The new platform and large body ensures the Plug-in Hybrid model retains the generous cabin and luggage space and five-and seven-seat layouts that define other models in the line-up.
It also offers one of the largest cargo capacities in its class, with the larger battery back not taking up significant amounts of boot space – up to 809 litres (for seven-seat models) or 898 litres (five-seat models) with two rows of seats in place.
“The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid completes the new fourth-generation Sorento line-up, and is one of two electrified models available to European drivers," said Kia Motors Europe product planning and pricing director Pablo Martinez Masip.
"It deploys a turbo hybrid powertrain to boost performance, while reducing the car’s environmental impact and running costs. 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.”
In the first half of 2020, electrified models – including mild-hybrid, parallel hybrid, battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles – accounted for around one in four of all Kia vehicles sold in Europe, with sales accelerating year-on-year.
Sales of the new Sorento Plug-in Hybrid will start in select European markets in early 2021.
