The fifth generation of the Kia Sportage offered a choice between two turbos – a 1.6 TSI and a 2.0 TDI. A hybrid spec joins them now based on the same tech as the Hyundai Tucson.
Most of the power comes from a 1.6-liter gasoline engine rated at 180 PS (178 hp / 132 kW) and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. A single electric motor built into a six-speed automatic transmission contributes another 60 PS (59 hp / 44 kW) and 264 Nm (194 lb-ft). The combined output roughly amounts to 230 PS (227 hp / 169 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft). The front axle is the only one receiving the entire momentum.
As a mild hybrid, the Sportage comes with a small 1.49-kWh battery mounted under the second seat row and cannot go all-electric. Having said that, it is considerably efficient in terms of fuel consumption at 6l/100 km mixed-cycle (39 MPG).
A feature called E-Ride softens the suspension recoil when riding over bumps by forcing a short-lived power impulse from the electric motor.
The cabin stays largely stock, unless you count the digital dashboard with a hybrid gauge replacing the usual tachometer.
Prices in South Korea begin from a rough equivalent of U.S. $27,000, while the base specification costs $22,000 and above.
Later on, Kia plans to introduce a Sportage plug-in hybrid complete with a larger battery, stronger electric engine, and 265 PS (261 hp / 195 kW) nominal output.
