Kia has unveiled an electrified version of the brand’s longest-running nameplate: The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid (HEV) is the third model in an ongoing cadence of eco-minded offerings guided by Kia’s global EV strategy, “Plan S.” This newest Kia follows in the footsteps of the recently launched EV6 and the Sorento PHEV to serve as another example of Kia’s multiple pathways to electrification.

Arriving early next year, the Sportage Hybrid is significantly larger than the previous generation Sportage and offers a list of ADAS features and dual panoramic display screens (12.3-in. instrument panel display and 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen display) for nearly 25 in. of viewing.

This Sportage’s electrified performance comes from a seamless hybrid powertrain combining a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with a 44-kilowatt motor to achieve up to 39 mpg (targeted). Together, the engine and motor make 226 hp channeled to either the front wheels or an active all-wheel-drive system.

The Sportage Hybrid is offered in three trim levels: LX, EX, and SX-Prestige.

The Sportage has gone from one of the smallest SUVs in its class to one of the largest:

• Overall length is 7.1 in. longer than the previous generation, with a 3.4-in. longer wheelbase
• Taller and wider by a half inch compared to the previous generation
• Rear legroom with 41.3 in. of room
• Rear cargo capacity of 39.5 cu-ft. of space
• Dual-level cargo floor

Active AWD is standard on EX and SX-Prestige trims, while LX is available with a choice of FWD and Active AWD. The Active AWD system uses electro-hydraulic coupling with a center-locking differential to actively distribute power between the front and rear wheels depending on road and driving conditions. E-Handling uses the hybrid motor to deliver a confident driving experience, while standard paddle shifters and Drive Mode Select with ECO, Sport, Smart and Snow modes.

Standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems include:

• Driver Attention Warning (DAW)17: Analyzes the driver’s attention level and provides a warning if a break is recommended. It may also provide a leading vehicle departure alert, if the leading vehicle departs from a stop and the driver does not react within a certain time period.
• LED Headlights with High Beam Assist (HBA): Engineered to automatically dim the headlights when an oncoming or leading vehicle is detected, then return to high beams when vehicles are no longer detected.
• Lane Following Assist (LFA): Helps detect lane markings and vehicles ahead and provides steering inputs to help center the vehicle in the lane.
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Helps detect lane markings and provides steering inputs to help prevent the vehicle from leaving the lane while driving.
• Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) with Cyclist detection capability: Warns if there is risk of a collision with a vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist in front of the vehicle while driving and may automatically assist with braking.
• Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)18: Provides a warning to the driver to check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle.
• Rear View Monitor (RVM) with Dynamic Parking Guidance: Provides view behind the vehicle, with guidelines that adjust to follow the direction the vehicle is turning.
• Reverse Parking Distance Warning: Detects certain objects behind the vehicle, issuing an audible warning when an obstruction is detected. The warning tone chimes faster as the vehicle gets closer to the detected object.