It’s been a long time coming but Kia has finally added a hybrid to its Sportage range.
Expected to account for 20 per cent of Sportage sales, the Kia Sportage HEV is available in two trims: SX FWD Auto and GT-Line FWD Auto.
It’s powered by the same hybrid setup that underpins the larger Sorento Hybrid.
That means a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid that combines a 132kW/265Nm four-cylinder petrol engine with a 44kW/264Nm electric motor, and a 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery.
Combined petrol and electric output is 169kW and 350Nm.
It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, with drive to the front wheels.
ensuring a smooth transition between gear changes.
Claimed fuel consumption is 4.9L/100km.
As is the case with many hybrids it rides on smaller 18-inch alloys and misses out on all-wheel drive.
A temporary steel spare wheel is provided.
The SX is priced from $45,950, while the GT-Line starts from $55,420, both prices before on-road costs.
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