2022 Kia Sorento Turbo Plug-in Hybrid Offers Up 261 Horsepower, 32-Mile Electric Range

Already offered in traditional internal combustion engine and hybrid powertrains, the Kia Sorento is adding another option for the 2022 model year. The 2022 Kia Sorento Turbo Plug-In Hybrid combines power, efficiency, standard all-wheel drive and three rows of seating.

"The Sorento PHEV's rare combination of drivability, efficiency and spaciousness will make it a compelling choice for our customers," said Sean Yoon, president & chief executive officer of Kia North America and Kia America. "We're proud to have it join the popular Sorento model range while also playing a pivotal role in the launch of Kia's Plan S electrification strategy."

Kia will offer the 2022 Sorento PHEV in two trim levels: SX and SX-P.

The Sorento PHEV carries over most of the body styling of the news Sorento that are already on the market. It gains trim-specific badging, a power port near the rear quarter panel, and standard 19-inch wheels.

The model is offered with a 66.9-kilowatt electric motor that is paired with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. There is a six-speed automatic transmission that can be controlled via rotary shifter or paddle shifters. The battery size is 13.8 kilowatt-hours.

Total output is 261 horsepower. Kia targets 32 miles of all-electric range, which would put the Sorento PHEV at the top of the list for three-row SUVs. Combined range is 460 miles and the SUV is slated to have a 79 MPGe rating.

Owners will be able to utilize a variety of standard drive modes, including Snow Mode.

Up to six passengers fit in the Sorento PHEV's cabin, which has more passenger space and second-row legroom than any other PHEV SUV. Second-row captain's chairs and Syntax synthetic leather seating are standard. Perforated leather seats and aluminum sport pedals are available.

The car's technology roster includes a long list of standard and available features like a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, a 360-degree camera view, Blind View Monitor, an electrochromic rearview mirror, keyless entry, remote start,a 10.25-inch infotainment touch screen, satellite radio, wireless charging pad, Bose Centerpoint technology, rear occupant alert and eight USB charging ports.

Kia will build the Sorento PHEV in Hwasung, Korea alongside the Sorento Hybrid. Pricing will be announced closer to the car's on-sale date. Buyers may be eligible for a $6,587 Federal Tax Credit and various state purchase incentives.

The model is expected to reach showrooms in the third quarter of 2021.