KIA SORENTO
We’ve been on a mission to maximise the big Kia’s electric range
FEATURED THIS WEEK
BMW 128ti
CUPRA FORMENTOR
KIA SORENTO
MAZDA MX-30
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI
MILEAGE 2907
WHY WE’RE RUNNING IT
To see if a plug-in hybrid family SUV can justify its eco credentials
The Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid is messing with my psyche. Normally there are any number of different factors dictating how to drive: type of road, weather, traffic, mood, passengers etc. All the usual stuff. But in the Kia, it’s entirely about eking out the electric range. Efficiency is king in this car.
It makes economic sense: electricity is far cheaper than petrol or diesel, so my wallet is happier when I’m maxing out the electric element of the powertrain. Kia claims a range of 35 miles from the Sorento’s 13.8kWh battery; so far I’ve been getting about 28 miles from a charge. Not bad going but it feels like it could be better. A lesson in maximising every last joule is needed.