Last year, Korean automaker Kia announced the Plan S which is the company’s approach in advancing its global electric vehicle (EV) strategy. Steadily, the car brand is launching electrified models starting with the Kia EV6, and is later followed by the Kia Sorento with a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system.
2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Now, Kia’s longest-running nameplate, the Sportage, will be joining the fray as it adopts a hybrid system. The fifth-gen 2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid (HEV) made its debut at Los Angeles Auto Show (LAAS) after months of getting some of its specifications revealed. And as promised, the brand will unveil the compact crossover’s new hybrid powertrain at its debut.
The 2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo GDI engine paired to a 44kW permanent magnet electric motor and 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery. As a result, the Korean automaker claims that the vehicle offers 226 hp, 805 km of driving range, 40-percent lower CO2 emissions, 16.6 km/l improved fuel efficiency, and a class-leading 907 kg towing capacity. The torque value has not yet been disclosed by Kia.
Innovative interior layout
Complementing the new hybrid powertrain is an active all-wheel drive (AWD) system with paddle shifters and various drive modes. With this, the compact crossover sends power to all wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission with rotary style shifter.
The non-hybrid counterpart of the said engine is capable of generating 178 hp and 264 Nm of torque. It is paired to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). Meanwhile, a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine is also available which sends 183 hp and 417 Nm of torque of power to the front wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Design-wise, the fifth-gen Kia Sportage Hybrid sports the brand’s tiger-nose grille paired to the distinct boomerang-styled daytime running lights (DRLs). Depending on the trim, a 17-inch or 18-inch HEV wheel design can be installed. And to flaunt its hybrid nature, Kia added an HEV badging at the tailgate.
The Kia Sportage Hybrid is the latest offering from the brand's Plan S
Nearly 25-inch of viewing display can be utilized inside thanks to its two 12.3 inch screens, one for the infotainment and one for the digital instrument panel. Also, passengers can benefit from more space with the all-new model’s longer length and wheelbase than the previous generation by 180 mm and 86 mm, respectively.
As for safety, the Kia Sportage Hybrid is equipped with advanced driver assistance technology features such as Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Smart Cruise Control (SCC), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), 360-degree surround-view monitor with a 3D view, and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA).
“The new Sportage Hybrid SUV marks yet another step in Kia’s [advancement] on sustainable mobility, as part of our ‘Plan S’ efforts. In addition to paving a new pathway to electrification, the Sportage Hybrid also delivers superb driving dynamics, cutting-edge design, and a vast array of technology for a world-class in-car experience,” said Kia America President and CEO Sean Yoon.
One packed compact crossover
The 2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid is only available in the North American market – at least for now. Kia Philippines hasn’t put out any word as to whether it will add the more environmentally friendly trim to the country or not. As of this writing, the local lineup is still offering the fourth-generation Kia Sportage.
Catch the latest car releases here at Philkotse.com.