Kia Launches 2023 Sportage PHEV With 32 Miles Of Electric Range

The Kia Sportage family has grown and for the first time in the history of the vehicle’s nameplate, a PHEV model has been added. It will be sold alongside U.S. models available with either a 2.5-litre four-cylinder or as a hybrid with a 1.6-litre turbocharged mill.

Two trim levels are being offered at launch: X-Line PHEV AWD and X-Line Prestige PHEV AWD. The X-Line treatment means satin chrome surrounds the bumpers while the side mirrors, roof racks, and window surrounds are all finished in gloss black, as are the 19-inch alloy wheels. Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille appears between a pair of LED headlights with “boomerang” running lights. Nineteen-inch black alloy wheels are also standard.

The Sportage PHEV gets a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder rated at 177 horsepower, plus a 66.9-kW electric motor. These are the same specs as the powertrain in the larger Sorento PHEV, so we suspect the combined output is the same: 261 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That’s a little more than 30 horsepower over the regular Sportage hybrid. Kia is targeting an all-electric range of 32 miles (51 kilometres).

The engine is connected to a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. This is the only configuration available for the PHEV.

Inside the cabin include the option of dual panoramic curved screens made up of two displays each measuring 12.3 inches. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on both trims, while a 360-degree surround-view monitor is an option.

The 2023 Kia Sportage PHEV goes on sale in the third quarter of this year. Kia says it will provide more details about the crossover, like its price and fuel economy rating, closer to its on-sale date.

• Also See: 2023 Kia Sportage Debuts With Gorgeous Design And Techs