Kia Launches Sportage Hybrid 4WD... Equipped with 'Auto Terrain & E-Ride'

[Asia Economy Reporter Ki-min Lee] Kia launched the new Sportage Hybrid (HEV) all-wheel drive (4WD) model on the 13th.

The new Sportage, released on July 20, has gained popularity with a cumulative 52,000 contracts and 15,800 sales domestically as of the day before.

In particular, the HEV model equipped with E-ride, the first among domestic sport utility vehicles (SUVs), has recorded 17,000 contracts and 3,500 sales to date.

The Sportage HEV 4WD is equipped with a 1.6 turbo HEV engine delivering a maximum output of 180 horsepower and a peak torque of 27.0 kgf·m, combined with a motor power of 44.2 kW, producing a total output of 230 horsepower. Despite being a 4WD model that delivers power to all four wheels, it achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 15.2 km/l.

Kia has equipped the new Sportage HEV 4WD with Auto Terrain Mode as a standard feature to enhance driving performance, which was previously only available on the 2.0 Diesel 4WD model.

Photo by HMG Journal

Kia has equipped the new Sportage HEV 4WD with Auto Terrain Mode as a standard feature to enhance driving performance, which was previously only available when selecting the 2.0 diesel 4WD model.

Typically, terrain mode requires pressing a switch and turning a dial to select one of the Snow, Sand, or Mud modes, but to use Auto Terrain Mode, you only need to press a button located on the center console once.

Notably, Auto Terrain Mode incorporates machine learning using intelligent and advanced software, increasing its utility value as driving data accumulates. Kia explained, "We emphasized outdoor performance reflecting the social background of the growing population engaged in camping and leisure activities."

Additionally, E-Ride is equipped to provide a smooth ride. E-Ride is a technology that generates reverse movement through the hybrid vehicle’s drive motor to counteract movements caused when passing over speed bumps or uneven surfaces.

All trims of the new Sportage HEV can select 4WD for an additional 2.25 million KRW. The selling prices of the new Sportage 1.6 Turbo Hybrid 2WD models (after eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits) are ▲Prestige 31.09 million KRW ▲Noblesse 32.69 million KRW ▲Signature 35.93 million KRW.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.