The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid GT-Line is a low emissions version of the big selling Korean SUV. It’s 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 pack, the powertrain enables drivers to complete shorter drives on all-electric, zero-emissions power. Thus, you can drive a Sorento out of covered carparks such as those in major shopping centres and high-rise apartments.
The fourth generation Sorento was designed from the outset to accommodate electrified powertrains.
“The Sorento PHEV promises to push boundaries as one of the most versatile, practical and spacious plug-in hybrid SUVs on the market, and with the Sorento being an award-winning package, I couldn’t think of a better time to introduce the PHEV into the line-up,” said Kia’s Chief Operating Officer, Damien Meredith.
“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.”
Sorento PHEV’s 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine and electric motor between them have 195kW of power and 350Nm of torque.
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 alone.
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. The 10.25-inch navigation unit displays nearby charging station locations and information.
The 12.3-inch driver digital cluster providing the status of the hybrid charging system, including fuel and battery levels.
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. Drivers can choose from ‘Mud’, ‘Snow’ and ‘Sand’ modes.
For Kia’s General Manager of Product Planning, Roland Rivero, the fourth generation Sorento is a game-changer in the Australian market.
“The Sorento has been a great success in Australia providing five-star safety and exceptional convenience levels in its segment, and the PHEV will continue to take the story forward,” said Rivero.
“Supply limitations impacting the automotive industry as a whole, combined with Sorento’s global popularity, has steered us to offering the Sorento PHEV in only the top of the range GT-Line for now.”
