2021 Kia Sorento hybrid production begins in Korea

KUALA LUMPUR: In March this year, the Korean automaker introduced the all-new Sorento, built on a new platform that for the first time in the lineup, allows for the deployment of the electrified powertrain. 

The new Kia Sorento Hybrid has now entered into production at the brand’s Hwasung production facility in Korea. It will be followed by gasoline and diesel variants on the same production line. And, very soon, Kia will start producing the Sorento at its West Point, Georgia, US plant. 

Being the first vehicle to be based on a new platform, the new Sorento is one of the most versatile and spacious 3-row SUVs. It is paired with a larger body to maximize cargo and luggage space. 

The Sorento Hybrid’s ‘Smartstream’ electrified powertrain combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged gasoline direct injection unit with a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and a 44.2 kW electric motor. The combined system has been rated at 230 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to all four wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission and a transmission-mounted electrical device, which allows the full potential of the motor and engine to be transferred in parallel with a slight loss of energy.

The battery pack is located under the floor, with minimal impact on cabin or luggage space, thanks to its innovative interior packaging.

The Sorento’s diesel mill houses a 2.2-litre from the Smartstream family, mated to an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, producing 202 PS and 440 Nm. A plug-in hybrid would also join the range later in 2020.

The first Sorento Hybrid units are destined for the European market, where the model is expected to hit the Kia showrooms in the third quarter of 2020. And by the end of the year, it will be available to order in most of Kia’s global markets.

The Kia Sorento has been a significant part of the brand’s automotive landscape, since 2002. Since then, it has sold more than 3 million Sorentos. A hybrid version of the upcoming Sorento would surely help its prospects.

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