The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) offers 57km electric range, all-wheel-drive, and more power for $89,990 plus on-road costs.
It provides the performance and practicality of a large seven-seater SUV but the running costs typically associated with a much smaller vehicle, along with stunning design and excellent fuel efficiency complemented by premium safety and technology features.
“The Kia Sorento PHEV Premium has a bold and robust appearance and offers a luxuriously-appointed interior, as well as go-anywhere all-wheel-drive ability,” Kia New Zealand managing director Todd McDonald says.
“These considerations, combined with outstanding sustainability credentials, means the new model redefines expectations of what people have come to expect from a large, seven-seat SUV.”
The Generation III Smartstream engine technology delivers increased efficiency and performance. A powerful 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a high-capacity 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack and high output electric motor provides a power potential of 195kW and 350Nm of torque, yet CO2 emissions are only 36g/km.
For long journeys, the powertrain combines electric and combustion engine power sending drive to all four wheels, depending on road conditions, via a quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission.
The SUV has 19-inch alloy wheels, and is differentiated from hybrid and diesel models with ‘ECOplug-in’ badges.
A charging port is integrated into the rear three-quarters – opposite the fuel tank on the other side.
Premium material and progressive tech are included in the cabin.
Twin digital displays feature in the dashboard and the 12.3-inch digital driver instrument cluster is twinned with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system at the centre.
A wireless smartphone charger sits at the centre console base, while a powerful BOSE 12-speaker surround-sound system is standard along with a panoramic sunroof.
There’s plenty of space for people and cargo with the PHEV’s ‘saddle-shaped’ battery pack lying low over the propshaft, allowing up to 1988-litres of luggage space when the second and third rows are folded down.
The boot can fit a pushchair and a couple of suitcases or weekend bags, or up to four large ‘flight’ suitcases. With all seven seats in place, the 175-litre boot can accommodate accessories needed for a family day out or a couple of weekend bags.
Second-row seats slide up to 45mm further, creating a wider entry to the third row with more space for feet and legs.
A new grab handle gives third-row passengers easier access and the third-row armrest has been extended by 100mm for greater elbow support, while incorporating a cupholder and smartphone tray.
The Sorento PHEV offers enhanced all-terrain capability in a new Terrain Mode, drivers able to choose from ‘Mud’, ‘Snow’ and ‘Sand’ modes.
It has a five-star ANCAP safety rating and Kia’s Advanced Driving Assistance Systems, along with a new blind spot view from door mirror cameras.
The PHEV includes four-years/40,000km scheduled servicing, complementary to Kia’s standard five-year warranty and five-year roadside assistance.
Dealers have the Kia Sorento PHEV Premium available for test drives and are taking orders.
