Information about the new Kia Sportage 2023 has been pouring in throughout the year. Models for the US market broke in February, with prices for each variant but the PHEV arrived in April. Kia has finally released more Sportage PHEV info, announcing that the plug-in hybrid retails for $38,490 without the $1,295 destination fee. Adding it brings the starting price to $39,785
Kia will offer the model in two trims: X-Line AWD and X-Line Prestige AWD. Both have 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels, a power liftgate and a panoramic sunroof. The top-tier AWD X-Line Prestige starts at $44,285, including destination. The entry-level, front-wheel-drive Sportage LX starts at $27,285, while the Sportage hybrid retails for $28,585. Destination rates at Kia have been creeping up since last February.
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The Sportage has a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, a 66.9 kilowatt electric motor and a 13.8 kilowatt-hour lithium-polymer battery. The powertrain produces 261 horsepower (194 kilowatts) and 258 pound-feet (349 Newton-meters) of torque, with a targeted electric range of 34 miles (51 kilometers). Level 2 charging can recharge the battery in about two hours. All-wheel drive is standard, and the crossover has a six-speed automatic transmission.
Kia detailed the Sportage X-Line and X-Line Prestige trims when it revealed the plug-in hybrid in February. This crossover stands out with its glossy black mirrors, shutters and roof racks. Kia even finished off the unique front and rear bumpers with satin chrome trim.
The fifth generation update also revamps the cabin with the latest technology. Inside, the top-level trim receives a premium Harman Kardon audio system, front and rear parking warnings, smart cruise control, and more. Standard safety features include lane-keep assist, forward collision avoidance, and high-beam assist.
The PHEV benefits from improvements made to the fifth-generation Sportage, which shares the N3 platform with the Kia Sorento. The new underpinnings help the 2023 Sportage grow compared to the previous model, adding 3.4 inches (8.64 centimeters) to the wheelbase and 7.1 inches (18 cm) to the crossover’s overall length. The Kia Sportage PHEV 2023 is already on sale, reaching dealerships last month.
