It’s going to be a busy 2021 for Kia New Zealand with the arrive of models big and small, and a new powertrain.

Kia will add a plug-in hybrid model to its new Sorento seven-seat large SUV range next year, in line with the company’s rapid progress towards a more electrified future.

The new PHEV variant will join the diesel-powered versions of the all-new Kia Sorento that have just gone on sale here. 

“Kia is strongly focused on expanding the number of electrified vehicles in the market, which started for us with the Niro hybrid and EV models,” says Todd McDonald, Managing Director of Kia Motors New Zealand.

“The introduction of the Sorento plug-in hybrid next year provides an exciting opportunity for buyers to experience Kia’s advanced technology in a larger family vehicle.”

The Sorento PHEV will feature the newly developed ‘Smartstream’ electrified powertrain that pairs a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack and 66.9 kW electric motor. The Sorento’s new platform was designed from the outset for electrification and accommodates the battery pack under the floor, with minimal impact on cabin or luggage space.

Described as the most advanced and efficient PHEV system developed by Kia, the new powertrain is the first of its kind to use an independent water cooling system for the battery pack to ensure optimal efficiency. The electric motor itself is also coated in a two-stage lamination process to further boost refinement.

Together, the petrol engine and electric motor produce 195 kW of power and 350 Nm torque, combining low CO2 emissions and reduced fuel consumption with high levels of performance. 

That performance is sent to all four driving wheels electronically through a six-speed automatic transmission to ensure a smooth and powerful driving experience.

The price will be announced closer to launch.

Joining the line-up next year with be the all-new Stonic compact SUV, that will have an introductory price of just $21,990.

“Kia has always had the Power To Surprise and we are living up to our brand slogan as we introduce the new Stonic,” says McDonald.

“Stonic is a vehicle that is going to surprise a lot of people – not just because of our special introductory price. It really does bring fresh excitement to the crossover experience.”

The new Stonic follows in the tracks of the recently introduced Seltos compact SUV and Sorento large SUV in showcasing the exciting new face of Kia. It also rounds off the SUV range in New Zealand, which also includes the Sportage, the brand’s best-selling model in September and the Niro Hybrid/EV.

Mr McDonald says the upcoming arrival of the Stonic means that Kia now offers one of the strongest vehicle line-ups in New Zealand. And each model displays its own unique character, with the Stonic now the latest to show off its hot credentials.  

The new Kia Stonic will be offered with a choice of 1.4-litre naturally aspirated or 1-litre turbocharged petrol engines and a choice of 6-speed automatic or 7-speed dual-clutch transmissions.

Dealers are expected to take delivery of evaluation vehicles by the end of November, with customer deliveries starting in the New Year.