Pre-orders for New Sorento Hybrid Suspended... Fails to Meet Fuel Efficiency Standards

[Asia Economy Reporter Kiho Sung] Kia Motors has temporarily suspended pre-orders for the new Sorento Hybrid.

On the 21st, Kia Motors stated in a press release that the new Sorento Hybrid, which had entered pre-orders, did not meet the government's energy consumption efficiency standards and therefore was not eligible for eco-friendly vehicle tax benefits. Pre-orders for the Sorento had been underway since the previous day.

A Kia Motors official said, "Accordingly, the pre-order price for the previously announced Sorento Hybrid model will be subject to change," and added, "We plan to prepare separate compensation plans and contact each Sorento Hybrid pre-order customer individually."

Pre-orders for the Sorento Hybrid were suspended from 4 p.m. today, while pre-orders for the diesel model continue as before.

A Kia Motors official stated, "We will announce the resumption date for Sorento Hybrid pre-orders later," and apologized sincerely for causing confusion to customers.