The electrified version of the 2023 Kia Sportage was spotted at the opening of the Los Angeles Auto Show (LAAS).
The Kia Sportage Hybrid (HEV) is the third model in an ongoing cadence of eco-minded offerings guided by Kia’s global EV strategy, Plan S. This newest Kia follows in the footsteps of the recently launched EV6 and the Sorento PHEV to serve as another example of Kia’s multiple pathways to electrification.
“The new Sportage Hybrid SUV marks yet another step in Kia’s advance on sustainable mobility, as part of our global ‘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 and Kia North America President and CEO Sean Yoon.
Powering the hybrid variant of the Kia Sportage is a 1.6-liter turbo GDI engine paired with a 44kW permanent magnet electric motor and a high-output 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery with a combined power output of 226 horses. The hybrid powerplant is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with a rotary-style shifter.
According to Kia, the hybrid variant of the Sportage offers more than 500 miles of driving range.
Kia’s latest electrified offering will use the same third-generation N3 platform found in the Sorento line of vehicles. This gives the hybrid Sportage improved driving dynamics with minimized cabin noise.
The new platform also makes the hybrid Sportage the largest vehicle in its class. The hybrid SUV’s overall length is 7.1 inches longer than the previous generation, with a 3.4-inch longer wheelbase. It’s also taller and wider by a half-inch compared to the previous generation.
Its increased dimensions allow for 41.3 inches of legroom and around 1,118 liters of cargo space.
Speaking of cargo, Kia says that the electrified Sportage will offer a class-leading 2,000-lb towing capacity.
The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid will share the same exterior and interior layout as its ICE-powered brethren. That means customers eyeing the hybrid variant will also get the redesigned Tiger Nose grille and the expansive dual panoramic curved display with two 12.3-inch screens.
The hybrid Sportage will also feature Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technologies new to the nameplate like blind-spot collision assistance, blind-spot view monitor, forward collision avoidance with cyclist detection capability, forward collision avoidance with junction turning capability, lane following assist, highway driving assist, navigation-based smart cruise control-curve, navigation-based smart cruise control-zone, reverse parking collision avoidance, rear occupant alert, and safe exit warning.
Pricing and release date of the Sportage Hybrid were not disclosed but Kia says that it will be offered in three trim levels: LX, EX, and SX Prestige.
Photos from Kia
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