Kia reveals Sportage plug-in hybrid with long electric range

Kia UK has revealed details of its new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, which has low BIK tax band thanks to low CO2 emissions and long electric range.

The new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid has an electric range of up to 43 miles (WLTP), rising to 48 miles on the WLTP City Cycle, and out on the open road, electric energy consumption is an 3.68 miles/kWh (169 Wh/km).

It features a high-performance 1.6-litre T-GDi engine that works in tandem with a 66.9kW permanent magnet traction electric motor and a 13.8kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. The high-voltage battery sits centrally between the two axles under the body of the SUV, ensuring a balanced weight distribution and an interior space that is practical, comfortable and versatile.

Together, this powertrain combination delivers a total of 265PS and 350Nm of torque, a 0-60mph time of just 7.9 seconds, and a top speed of 119mph. A smooth and quick-shifting six-speed automatic transmission ensures drivers can make swift, effortless progress in all conditions.

The Plug-in Hybrid’s four-cylinder petrol engine features several measures designed to ensure optimum fuel efficiency in all operating conditions. These include a new and optimised combustion process, cooling technologies and key friction reduction measures, including an advanced integrated thermal management system and the use of a low-friction ball bearing. As a result, the new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid emits just 25g/km of CO2 on the weighted combined cycle.

As well as attracting £0 VED first-year tax after registration, the combination of low CO2 and long electric range means a Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax rate of 7 per cent for the current 2021/22 tax year, rising to 8 per cent for the next three tax years to 2024/25. As a result, the new model costs less to run than almost all of its rivals, despite its premium interior, strong performance and generous standard equipment levels.

The Sportage Plug-in Hybrid also includes Kia’s latest high-efficiency, high-performance Hybrid Starter Generator (HSG) module and Hybrid Power Control Unit (HPCU). Combined, these enhance efficiency, performance and reduce NVH levels when driving. The efficient on-board charger (OBC) system is rated at 7.2kW, making it the fastest-charging Kia PHEV to-date. The battery can complete a full charge in just 1hr 45m.

The Sportage Plug-in Hybrid features the same sleek and muscular exterior design as other fifth-generation Sportage models. Riding on stylish 19-inch alloy wheels, the Sportage Plug-in Hybrid is available across the ‘GT-Line’, ‘3’, ‘4’ and ‘GT-Line S’ grades with prices starting from £38,395 OTR.

The first UK customer deliveries of the all-new Sportage Plug-in Hybrid commence in April 2022.