Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the Kia Sorento 2022 Hybrid Plug-In, a vehicle that’s been making waves in the SUV market. If you’re looking for a family-friendly ride that doesn’t guzzle gas and offers a bit of electric pep, then this might just be the car for you. Let's explore what makes this SUV so special, from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior comforts and tech features. We'll also touch on some potential drawbacks to give you a well-rounded view. Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a detailed journey through everything the Kia Sorento 2022 Plug-In Hybrid has to offer.

Overview of the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid

The 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid represents a significant step forward in the world of electrified SUVs. It combines the versatility of a three-row SUV with the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. This means you get the best of both worlds: ample space for passengers and cargo, along with the ability to drive on electric power for shorter distances, reducing your reliance on gasoline. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 261 horsepower. This powertrain provides brisk acceleration and a smooth driving experience. One of the standout features of the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is its all-electric range. On a full charge, you can drive up to 32 miles on electric power alone, making it ideal for daily commutes and errands around town. When the electric range is depleted, the Sorento seamlessly switches to hybrid mode, offering a combined fuel economy of 35 MPG. Kia has also equipped the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid with a range of advanced technology features, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a suite of driver-assistance systems, and a comfortable and well-appointed interior. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is available in two trim levels: SX and SX Prestige. Both trims offer a high level of standard equipment, with the SX Prestige adding features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. Overall, the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is a compelling option for families looking for an efficient, versatile, and technologically advanced SUV.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to performance, the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid strikes a balance between power and efficiency. The combination of a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor delivers a combined output of 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provides ample power for daily driving, with quick acceleration and smooth transitions between electric and hybrid modes. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.2 seconds, which is respectable for a vehicle of its size. One of the key advantages of the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is its all-electric range. With a fully charged battery, you can drive up to 32 miles on electric power alone. This is perfect for short commutes, errands, and school drop-offs, allowing you to significantly reduce your fuel consumption and emissions. The electric motor provides instant torque, making the Sorento feel responsive and agile in city driving. When the electric range is depleted, the Sorento seamlessly switches to hybrid mode, where the gasoline engine and electric motor work together to optimize fuel efficiency. In hybrid mode, the Sorento achieves a combined fuel economy of 35 MPG. This is significantly better than the fuel economy of the non-hybrid Sorento, which gets around 24 MPG combined. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid also features regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery. This helps to extend the electric range and improve overall fuel efficiency. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is equipped with a 13.8 kWh battery pack, which can be fully charged in around 5 hours using a Level 2 charger (240V). Using a standard Level 1 charger (120V), it takes around 12 hours to fully charge the battery. Overall, the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid offers a compelling combination of performance and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for drivers who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing practicality or comfort.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid, you'll find a well-designed and comfortable interior with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The Sorento offers three rows of seating, with enough room for up to six or seven occupants, depending on the configuration. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom. The second-row seats are also spacious, with plenty of room for adults. The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults, but they are still usable for short trips. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is easy to use and offers a range of features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. The infotainment system is responsive and intuitive, with clear graphics and a user-friendly interface. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid also comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems help to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue on long trips. Other available technology features include a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, a wireless phone charger, and a head-up display. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid also offers a range of convenience features, such as a power liftgate, keyless entry, and remote start. The interior of the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is made from high-quality materials, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim. The overall design is modern and stylish, with a focus on functionality and comfort. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid also offers plenty of cargo space, with 12.6 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seats, 45 cubic feet of space with the third-row seats folded down, and 75.5 cubic feet of space with the second-row seats folded down. Overall, the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid offers a comfortable, technologically advanced, and versatile interior that is well-suited for families and individuals alike.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is available in two trim levels: SX and SX Prestige. Both trims offer a generous array of standard features, but the SX Prestige adds even more luxury and convenience. The SX trim comes standard with features such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, a suite of driver-assistance systems, a panoramic sunroof, a wireless phone charger, and a power liftgate. The SX trim also includes features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The SX Prestige trim builds upon the SX trim by adding features such as a premium audio system, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a surround-view monitor. The SX Prestige trim also includes features such as a blind-spot view monitor and a remote smart parking assist system. Both trims are powered by the same turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, which deliver a combined output of 261 horsepower. Both trims also offer the same all-electric range of 32 miles and a combined fuel economy of 35 MPG. The SX trim is a great value for drivers who want a well-equipped SUV with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The SX Prestige trim is a good choice for drivers who want even more luxury and convenience features. Overall, the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid offers a compelling range of trim levels and features, making it easy to find a model that fits your needs and budget. No matter which trim you choose, you'll get a versatile, efficient, and technologically advanced SUV that is perfect for families and individuals alike.

Potential Drawbacks

While the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid has a lot to offer, it's important to consider some potential drawbacks before making a purchase. One of the main drawbacks is its limited availability. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is only available in select states, which means that not everyone will be able to buy one. Another potential drawback is its higher price compared to the non-hybrid Sorento. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid starts at around $45,000, which is significantly more than the base price of the non-hybrid Sorento. While the Plug-In Hybrid offers better fuel economy and the ability to drive on electric power, the higher price may not be worth it for everyone. Another potential drawback is the limited cargo space with the third-row seats in use. The Sorento Plug-In Hybrid offers only 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, which is less than some of its competitors. If you frequently need to carry a lot of cargo, you may want to consider a different SUV. Finally, the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid has a relatively long charging time. Using a Level 2 charger (240V), it takes around 5 hours to fully charge the battery. Using a standard Level 1 charger (120V), it takes around 12 hours to fully charge the battery. This means that you'll need to plan ahead if you want to take advantage of the Sorento's all-electric range. Overall, the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is a great SUV, but it's important to be aware of these potential drawbacks before making a purchase.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Kia Sorento Plug-In Hybrid? Well, guys, it’s a pretty solid choice if you're in the market for a family-friendly SUV that offers impressive fuel efficiency and a decent all-electric range. It’s got plenty of space, a comfortable interior, and a host of tech features that make driving a breeze. Sure, it might not be perfect – the price is a bit steep, and cargo space with all seats up is limited – but overall, it’s a compelling package. If you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint without sacrificing practicality, the Sorento Plug-In Hybrid is definitely worth considering. Just remember to weigh the pros and cons, and see if it fits your specific needs and lifestyle. Happy driving!