Pakistan’s premium SUV market has evolved significantly over the past few years, with buyers increasingly prioritising efficiency, technology and everyday comfort alongside performance. As electrified mobility gains momentum, the launch of the Kia Sorento PHEV in Pakistan introduces another option for customers seeking the flexibility of electric driving without the range limitations associated with a fully electric vehicle.

Since entering Pakistan’s D-segment SUV market in 2021, the Kia Sorento has challenged the idea that a seven-seat SUV must prioritise ruggedness over refinement. Its fourth-generation facelift strengthened that positioning through contemporary design, premium cabin features and an advanced All-Wheel Drive system that balances capability with comfort. The Sorento has also emerged as one of Pakistan’s best-selling hybrid SUVs over the past year, reflecting the growing acceptance of electrified powertrains among local consumers.

Building on this momentum, Lucky Motor Corporation has introduced the Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, expanding the Sorento line-up to three powertrain options: a 3.5-litre V6 SmartStream petrol engine, a 1.6-litre turbo hybrid and the newly launched 1.6-litre turbo plug-in hybrid. This broader range gives customers the flexibility to select a powertrain suited to their driving requirements and lifestyle.

The launch comes as plug-in hybrid technology attracts increasing attention in Pakistan. Unlike a conventional hybrid, a PHEV can be charged through an external power source, allowing drivers to complete shorter daily journeys primarily on electric power. Once additional performance or range is required, the petrol engine works alongside the electric motor. In a market where public charging infrastructure is still developing, this combination provides a practical transition towards electrified mobility while retaining long-distance flexibility.

Powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 13.8 kWh high-voltage battery, the Kia Sorento PHEV produces a combined output of 249 hp and 367 Nm of torque. According to Kia’s claimed figures, it offers an all-electric driving range of up to 66 km and an approximate combined range of 800 km.

The Sorento PHEV also delivers claimed fuel economy of up to 62.5 km/l over the first 100 km under the applicable test cycle. As with all plug-in hybrids, real-world fuel economy will vary according to battery charge, driving conditions, journey length and charging frequency.

A 3.3 kW onboard AC charger can recharge the battery from 15% to 95% in approximately three hours and 25 minutes. This allows owners with access to home or workplace charging to conveniently replenish the battery between journeys and use electric power for a significant portion of their daily commute.

Beyond its electrified powertrain, the latest Sorento continues the model’s focus on refinement. Kia says the PHEV has been engineered with enhanced acoustic insulation and noise-reduction technology to help minimise road noise, vibration and harshness. The cabin features dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays, a Head-Up Display, a 12-speaker BOSE premium sound system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as heated, ventilated and memory seats.

The seven-seater plug-in hybrid SUV also retains its emphasis on safety and versatility. Its All-Wheel Drive system is supported by dedicated terrain modes for snow, mud and sand, while its Advanced Driver Assistance System offers more than 25 safety and driver-assistance features supported by cameras, radars and sensors.

Kia will support the Sorento PHEV through its nationwide dealership and after-sales network. The vehicle is accompanied by a four-year or 100,000 km warranty, while its high-voltage battery is covered for eight years or 160,000 km.

The introduction of the Kia Sorento PHEV expands an established nameplate in Pakistan’s premium SUV market, giving customers a choice of petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains within a single model range. As preferences shift towards vehicles that combine performance, efficiency, technology and premium comfort, the Sorento PHEV reflects the direction in which Pakistan’s automotive market is gradually moving.

Claimed range, charging time and fuel-economy figures may vary depending on test conditions, battery charge, driving style, temperature, road conditions and vehicle load.

This content is an advertorial by Kia and is not associated with or necessarily reflective of the views of Dawn.com or its editorial staff.