Sorento family grows once again
PHEV gets standard AWD, captains chairs
Kia has just launched the plug-in version of its Sorento hybrid. Kia says it has the most passenger space in its plug-in class, and with an expected range of more than 50 km, will have more electric-only distance than any three-row plug-in.
The 2022 Kia Sorento Turbo Plug-in Hybrid uses a 66.9 kW electric motor and a 1.6L turbo-four to make a combined 261 hp. More importantly, Kia is targeting a range on electric power of 52 km, which would be the most of any three-row PHEV, it says. Combined gas and electric range is an expected 745 km, impressive for a crossover without resorting to a massive gas tank. It will have a six-speed automatic rather than the more common PHEV CVT, and has a 13.8 kWh battery. On gas only, it should achieve 6.9 L/100 km combined by the official numbers.
Kia says it is the only mainstream PHEV to offer a third row of seating, though there will be several competitors for that title soon, including the Mitsubishi Outlander. The model offers a total of 4,072L of interior space, which Kia says is class-leading, as is third-row legroom.
Other PHEV-specific details include a new rear badge, the charge port on the rear quarter, and standard 19-inch wheels. The PHEV will offer standard second-row captains chairs and synthetic leather seating. AWD is standard with center locking differential and snow mode.
Driver assistance features will include highway driving assist, as well as rear cross-traffic alerts. Two trim levels will be offered, SX and SX-P. Pricing for the 2022 Sorento PHEV has not been revealed, but expect the model to hit dealers soon.
