Marcus Berggren went to Åre for a test drive of a latest plug-in hybrid, the Kia Sorento PHEV.
Nyheter24 sent Marcus to Åre to test drive the new Kia Sorento PHEV. (Photo: Kia)
The green color is new and suited well in Åre. (Photo: Kia) A little of each
Although the changes are not drastic, they are enough to clearly differentiate the new version of Sorento from its predecessor.
On the outside, we see a refreshed front with updated headlights, a redesigned grill and a new hood.
The Kia emblem has also been moved from the grill to the bonnet for a modern touch. At the rear, there are new taillights and a slimmer bumper.
Inside the car, you are greeted by the new screen layout that the Koreans have introduced – a curved screen where both the instrument panel and the infotainment system are united.
On top of that, there are several technical upgrades, especially when it comes to driver assistance systems and other safety technology.
The front has been updated with, among other things, new lights. (Photo: Kia)Sorento has invested heavily in digitalisation. (Photo: Kia)
DON’T MISS IT
Our podcast about cars – Under the Hood
When does the right rule not apply? Here is the answer
No half-assed work
In the interior, you will find lots of cup holders, practical storage compartments, clear physical buttons, sturdy handles and several sockets – all designed with a clear focus on function.
The impression is robust, although there are some hints of hard plastic here and there.
The seats are comfortable, with generous headroom, and you sit well both front and back.
Even the third row of seats is surprisingly spacious, which is a big advantage in our test model, the Sorento PHEV, which is also a plug-in hybrid with room for seven.
The Sorento feels practical throughout, and you can see that the engineers have paid great attention to every detail to make the car as functional as possible.
Ergonomics is something that has been invested in. (Photo: Kia) Sorento PHEV is a family car in every way. (Photo: Kia)The third row of seats is surprisingly spacious (Photo: Kia)Kia Sorento does what you expect
In terms of driving, the Sorento delivers exactly what you would expect. It’s quiet and handles rough dirt and country roads with stability, especially when the roads get a little more challenging.
Comfort is a priority, and the car feels deliberately non-sporty in terms of its driving dynamics.
The steering is heavy enough to provide a stable feel, and the performance feels fit for purpose.
Comfort mode is missing, so the driver has to choose between ECO and Sport, as well as a number of different off-road modes.
The switch between petrol and electric operation is smooth and hardly noticeable.
The Sorento is definitely a car for longer distances, but the electric range of 55 kilometers, despite the facelift, shows that the model is starting to age a little compared to competitors that reach over 100 kilometers on electricity.
The six-speed automatic transmission works reliably and does its job without attracting attention. In addition to the plug-in hybrid, there is also a standard hybrid and a diesel version to choose from.
The Sorento is not a sporty wagon. (Photo: Kia)
Korean Kia has made something of a class trip in recent years. (Photo: Kia)
DON’T MISS IT
Negative development: After the decision on petrol and diesel
The cars that last the longest – one brand beats all others
The Kia Sorento PHEV is an old treat
Upon first acquaintance, the updated Kia Sorento PHEV is experienced as a well-thought-out and appealing SUV. The comfort level is high, the practical elements many and the Sorento focuses wholeheartedly on appearing as sensible as possible.
Electric range is subpar and the driving experience not the most exciting, but first impressions are consistently positive. A longer test at home is to be expected.
The seven-seat plug-in hybrid has decidedly few competitors. (Photo: Kia)
DON’T MISS IT
Continued crisis for important industry
The new cars may soon become illegal – when 2G and 3G are shut down
First impressions of the new Kia Sorento PHEV: 4/5
Kia Sorento PHEV (2024)
Engine: 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder, gasoline, electric motor, 253 horsepower, 350 newton meters
Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 8.8 seconds
Top speed: 183 km/h
Electrical range: 55 km
Weight: 2,211 kg
Dimensions (length/width/height): 4815/1900/1700 mm
Price: From SEK 619,900