All-new Kia Sportage Hybrid revealed in South Korea, details revealed

KUALA LUMPUR: The fifth-gen Kia Sportage in hybrid version has been introduced in South Korea. The new model joins the existing petrol and diesel options available in the Korean market.

As for its fuel consumption, Kia claims the new Sportage to deliver an economy of 16.7 kmpl.

Like the ongoing Tucson, the electric motor in the new Sportage hybrid version is sandwiched between the engine and transmission. Speaking of the engine, it gets a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo mill that makes a maximum power of 180 PS at 5,500 rpm along with a peak torque of 265 Nm from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. As for the e-motor it makes 60 PS and 264 Nm of torque. The total system output rests at 230 PS and 350 Nm. All this power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Furthermore, SUV also comes with E-Ride tech that uses an e-motor to generate internal force in the opposite direction of the car when passing over speed bumps, which in turn enhances the comfort level. Also, part of the kit is E-Handling wherein the e-motor applies regenerative braking that enhances stability and agility on corner entry/exit.

Other inclusions are -

• All-around LED lighting
• Leather upholstery
• 8.0- or 12.3-inch infotainment display
• 4.2- or 12.3-inch instrument panel
• Dual-zone climate control with rear vents
• Panoramic sunroof
• Powered tailgate
• Krell sound system
• A suite of advanced driver assistance system

Now, a few elements make the Sportage Hybrid easily identifiable like the 'HEV' badging on the tailgate, model-specific display on the instrument cluster and infotainment screen, and unique 17- and 18-inch wheels.

Currently limited to the Korean market, the Sportage Hybrid is priced at 31.09 million won (around RM 114,249).

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