2021 Kia Sorento Full Specs Released, Hybrid Has Nearly 230 Horsepower

Following a lengthy teaser campaign, Kia revealed the new Sorento in February this year. Just a few days later, the South Korean manufacturer released initial technical details about its completely overhauled SUV, and now we have all the official info and numbers. And it looks promising.

First and foremost, the new Sorento is the first generation of the model to receive an electrified powertrain. Called Smartstream, the mill combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine with a 1.49-kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack and a 44.2-kW electric motor.

The system's peak output stands at 227 horsepower (169 kilowatts) and 258 pound-feet (350 Newton-meters) of torque. Power is channeled to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission and a transmission-mounted electrical device, allowing "the full power of the engine and motor to be transferred in parallel with minimal loss of energy."

The Sorento Hybrid will be available in select European markets from launch and later this year Kia will also introduce a plug-in hybrid version of its family hauler. Also available on the Old continent from launch will be a 2.2-liter diesel motor with 199 hp (148 kW) and 325 lb-ft (440 Nm) of torque, paired with a new eight-speed dual wet clutch automatic. Final fuel consumption ratings will be released closer to the vehicle's on-sale date later this year.

Just as a reminder, in some markets the new Sorento is also getting a beefier 2.5-liter turbocharged gas engine with 277 hp (207 kW) and 310 lb-ft (421 Nm) mated to the same eight-speed dual-clutch automatic.

In terms of safety and assist systems, the 2021 Sorento comes with a wide range of technologies. Depending on the trim level and optional equipment, these include forward collision and avoidance assist, blind-spot view monitor, surround view monitor, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and-go-function, and many more will be available.

For the North American market, the new Sorento will be manufactured at Kia's West Point, Georgia, plant, while Europe and other global markets will take delivery from Kia's Hwasung manufacturing facility in South Korea.