The new model shares its hybrid powertrain with the larger Sorento Hybrid and is expected to account for 20% of total Sportage sales
by Brad Anderson
2 hours ago
The current Kia Sportage has proven itself to be one of the most compelling options in its class and the Australian range has just grown with the addition of the new hybrid variant, known as the HEV.
Powering the Sportage HEV is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with 132 kW (177 hp) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. This engine works alongside an electric motor with 44 kW (59 hp) and 264 Nm (195 lb-ft), resulting in a combined 169 kW (227 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft). This is the same hybrid powertrain found in the larger Sorento Hybrid and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission routing power through the front wheels.
Power and torque figures of 169 kW and 350 Nm are more than adequate for an SUV of this size and shoppers will be pleased to know it’s fuel-efficient too, rated at 4.9 l/100 km (48 MPG) over the combined cycle.
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Two trim levels will be offered. Sitting at the base of the Sportage Hybrid range is the SX FWD Auto, priced from AU$45,950 (equal to about $30,400 at current exchange rates). It comes standard with a temporary steel spare wheel, 18-inch alloys, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, an analog-digital instrument cluster, cloth seats, dual-zone climate control, a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Those looking for a few extra luxuries can opt for the Sportage Hybrid GT-Line FWD Auto starting at AU$55,420 (~$36,600). It adds a curved display housing a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. It also includes leather-appointed seats, a smart key with push-button start, a panoramic sunroof, an electrochromic rearview mirror, front and rear parking sensors, a blind spot view monitor, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, and heated and ventilated front seats.
“The Sportage range was already an excellent medium SUV package in a very popular and competitive segment, and the addition of a Hybrid variant strengthens our offering considerably,” Kia Australia chief executive Damien Meredith said. “The Sportage range is an integral part of Kia’s sales initiatives and we anticipate sales of the HEV to be around 300 per month, contributing 20% of total Sportage sales volume. The Sportage HEV is another solid step in Kia’s progress of increasing electrified options to the Australian market.”
