On 18-19/4, Kia Vietnam introduced and displayed the Sorento hybrid for the first time at the Kia Pham Van Dong showroom complex in Phu Dien ward, Hanoi. During the event, the company began accepting pre-orders for the D-segment gasoline-electric hybrid SUV, with deliveries expected late in Q2.

The accompanying image shows the imported Sorento hybrid at its launch event, sporting the brand's latest Cityscape Green exterior color.

The Sorento hybrid retains an exterior largely similar to the new version launched last September. This D-segment SUV features a square, masculine overall design, appealing to a younger, modern demographic.

The front end is highlighted by a new, large-patterned grille. On both sides, the headlight clusters integrate seamlessly with star-map style daytime running LEDs, similar to those on the new Carnival. This design is also a new global identifier for Kia's product range. The front bumper is widened horizontally, incorporating chrome accent details.

Led projector headlights feature four bulbs on each side, with automatic on/off and adjustable low or high beam range.

The rear features new-graphic LED taillights, emphasizing the squared and masculine lines of the vehicle's body. Notably, the Sorento hybrid adds a camera on the spoiler, integrated into an electronic rearview mirror.

The interior design follows a minimalist approach, incorporating touch-sensitive buttons on the screen and refined independent dual-zone automatic climate control. The redesigned brown leather seats include heating and cooling functions for the front row.

A highlight of the cabin is the panoramic dual screen cluster, measuring 12,3 inches, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A 12-speaker Bose sound system provides surround sound.

The steering wheel features a new design compared to the previous version, integrating various buttons and levers for quick function adjustments. The new two-tone leather-wrapped steering wheel also includes sporty paddle shifters.

The Sorento hybrid features a rotary gear selector. Below it is a dial for selecting operating modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport, alongside three terrain modes: Snow, Sand, and Mud.

The Sorento hybrid includes a heated steering wheel, electronic parking brake with auto hold, hill descent assist, and a surround view camera.

The panoramic sunroof on the Sorento hybrid.

The electronic rearview mirror on the Sorento hybrid displays images from a camera located on the spoiler.

The third-row seating area in the Sorento hybrid can be flexibly adjusted to meet various needs.

The Sorento hybrid showcased at the launch event is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, producing 178 hp and 265 Nm of torque. An electric motor integrated into the gearbox delivers 72 hp and 304 Nm of torque. The lithium-ion battery has a capacity of 1,49 kWh.

This gasoline-electric hybrid D-segment SUV boasts a total output of 242 hp and 367 Nm of torque. The manufacturer reports a combined fuel consumption from 4,8 liters/100 km.

The hybrid platform in the new Sorento supports the driver throughout the vehicle's operation. When starting with sufficient battery capacity, the car does not emit the typical engine cranking sound, operating similarly to a pure electric vehicle. The electric motor assists operation at speeds below 25 km/h.

In situations requiring acceleration or climbing inclines, the electric motor and gasoline engine combine to optimize traction. At medium or high speeds, the vehicle flexibly coordinates both energy sources to maximize efficiency.

During deceleration or downhill driving, excess energy is recharged into the hybrid battery system. Torque is distributed via a 6-speed automatic transmission.

While driving, the driver can monitor the operational status and the energy source being used: gasoline, electric, or a combination of both.

The Sorento hybrid is equipped with E-VMC (electrification – vehicle motion control) technology, which uses the hybrid powertrain to control motion, enhancing stability and providing a smoother driving experience. The E-VMC system intervenes in three specific scenarios: assisting body stability during turns; aiding body stability when driving over speed bumps; and supporting collision avoidance.

Guests at the Sorento hybrid launch event experienced the vehicle's features. A female customer noted that she and her family came to learn about 7-seat SUVs, considering both the Sorento hybrid and the Carnival hybrid on display at the event.

Guests experienced the second-row seating area in the Sorento hybrid.

Le Van Tung from Nghia Do ward, Hanoi, stated that the Sorento hybrid offers impressive fuel consumption for its segment, in addition to its new design and diverse technology. "The new Sorento has a modern design, and its intelligently arranged interior space is suitable for large families and long-term use," he shared at the event. "My family has owned two Kia models and highly values the brand's nationwide dealership network and low maintenance costs compared to other vehicles in the same segment."

Before the launch of the hybrid version, the new Sorento in Vietnam was available in two versions: 2.2D Signature FWD and 2.5G Signature FWD, with new prices of 1,339 billion dong and 1,199 billion dong respectively, including VAT. The AWD option adds an additional 80 million dong.

Kia vehicles in Vietnam come with a 5-year or 150,000 km warranty, whichever comes first. Currently, Kia Vietnam has opened pre-orders for the Sorento hybrid, with an estimated delivery time late in Q2. The company has not yet announced the official selling price for the gasoline-electric hybrid version of this D-segment SUV.

Quang Anh

Photo: Tung Dinh