Kia

Kia will add a sophisticated plug-in hybrid model to its bold, new, award-winning Sorento seven-seat large SUV range in New Zealand next year.

The new PHEV variant will join the diesel-powered versions of the all-new Kia Sorento that have just gone on sale here.

“Kia is strongly focused on expanding the number of electrified vehicles in the market, which started for us with the Niro hybrid and EV models,” says Todd McDonald, Managing Director of Kia Motors New Zealand.

“The introduction of the Sorento plug-in hybrid next year provides an exciting opportunity for buyers to experience Kia’s advanced technology in a larger family vehicle.”

As well as broadening the Sorento line up, the new PHEV model complements the growing Kia SUV range on offer in New Zealand, which includes the Seltos, Sportage, Niro and soon-to-arrive Stonic.

The Sorento PHEV will feature the newly developed ‘Smartstream’ electrified powertrain that pairs a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack and 66.9 kW electric motor. The Sorento’s new platform was designed from the outset for electrification and accommodates the battery pack under the floor, with minimal impact on cabin or luggage space.

Described as the most advanced and efficient PHEV system developed by Kia, the new powertrain is the first of its kind to use an independent water cooling system for the battery pack to ensure optimal efficiency. The electric motor itself is also coated in a two-stage lamination process to further boost refinement.

Together, the petrol engine and electric motor produce 195 kW of and 350 Nm torque, combining low CO₂ emissions and reduced fuel consumption with high levels of performance.

That performance is sent to all four driving wheels electronically through a six-speed automatic transmission to ensure a smooth and powerful driving experience.

The new PHEV model will reinforce the impressive credentials of the latest generation Sorento, whose sharper lines, dynamic detailing and elongated, swept-back proportions give it a much more confident and dynamic presence on the road.

The assertive exterior styling is matched by a spacious and upscale cabin that blends luxury and comfort with high tech features to assist the driver and make travelling a much more pleasurable experience.

The 2021 Kia Sorento range also takes a major leap forward in terms of safety under Kia’s comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) programme, introducing a number of new safety technologies to protect occupants, which will also be an important feature of the upcoming PHEV model.

The new Kia Sorento PHEV model is expected to arrive in New Zealand during the first quarter of 2021 and prospective buyers are advised to register their interest online at kia.co.nz