Kia launches Sorento PHEV in North America ahead of Australian arrival

The North American arm of South Korean manufacturer Kia has announced it will be adding a plug-in hybrid variant to its Sorento line-up – with the ability to drive over 50km on electric power.

To be sold alongside the existing 2.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol options, the PHEV will be powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 66.9kW electric motor mated to it, achieving a combined economy of 3L/100km with a driving range of up to 740km.

Available as an automatic only, the four-wheel drive SUV produces 194kW, which is just 6kW less than the Australian-spec petrol Sorento – making 200kW from its 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated V6 – but 46kW more than the 2.2-litre turbo diesel.

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2021 Kia Sorento

Kia says the Sorento Turbo PHEV will be able to run for up to 50km on electric power only, coming from its 13.8kWh battery pack, although this remains as a target rather than a tested figure.

A spokesperson for Kia Australia confirmed the plug-in hybrid variant of the Sorento will be arriving locally towards the end of September, while a conventional mild-hybrid powertrain will also go on sale in the first quarter of next year.

The fourth-generation Sorento was launched locally in 2020, making its way to the Wheels Car of the Year competition thanks to its safety tech, impressive range of features and sleek design.

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2021 Kia Sorento

2021 Kia Sorento pricing for Australia