Price Slightly Adjusted Due to Eco-Friendly Vehicle Tax Benefit Criteria Shortfall
Hybrid-Exclusive Design Differentiation 'Gravity' Added
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] Kia Motors resumed contracts for the 4th generation Sorento Hybrid on the 9th. This comes about five months after sales were halted in February due to failing to meet eco-friendly vehicle fuel efficiency standards. However, Kia reintroduced the model by adjusting the price while keeping the existing specifications, instead of meeting the fuel efficiency criteria required for hybrid tax benefits.
To qualify for hybrid tax benefits, vehicles with engine displacements between 1000cc and less than 1600cc must exceed a fuel efficiency of 15.8 km/l. However, the Sorento Hybrid model released in February had a fuel efficiency of only 15.3 km/l. Anticipating government tax benefits, Kia had initially set prices accordingly but had to suspend pre-orders when price increases became unavoidable. For the approximately 12,000 units contracted during the one-day pre-order period, Kia announced a compensation plan providing subsidies.
The reintroduced Sorento Hybrid features a Smartstream turbo hybrid engine with a maximum output of 180 PS (horsepower) and maximum torque of 27.0 kgf·m, combined with a drive motor producing a maximum output of 44.2 kW and maximum torque of 264 Nm, delivering a system maximum output of 230 PS and system maximum torque of 35.7 kgf·m. The combined fuel efficiency is 15.3 km/l.
A Kia Motors representative stated, "The Sorento Hybrid offers higher fuel efficiency and excellent product quality compared to competing hybrid sport utility vehicles (SUVs), resulting in high satisfaction among customers who have already taken delivery. More than half of the units contracted during the pre-order period have been delivered, and we are making efforts to expedite delivery for subsequent orders as well."
The Sorento Hybrid is classified as a low-emission vehicle type 2, meeting emission standards that qualify it for benefits such as a 50% discount on public parking fees (in the metropolitan area) and at 14 airport parking lots nationwide, as well as exemption from congestion charges. Its low engine displacement under 1600cc also results in lower automobile taxes compared to other powertrains, which is an advantage.
Along with resuming contracts, Kia introduced the ‘Gravity’ model, a hybrid-exclusive design differentiation variant. Based on the Signature trim, the Sorento Gravity enhances a strong impression by applying black color to key exterior elements such as the upper molding of the radiator grille, roof racks, surround molding, and first-row door side garnish. Inside, it features Gravity-exclusive leather seats emphasizing bolster volume for added comfort.
Additionally, Kia is introducing a new exterior color exclusive to the Sorento Hybrid called ‘Runway Red.’
The prices for the Sorento Hybrid are ▲Prestige 35.34 million KRW ▲Noblesse 38.09 million KRW ▲Signature 40.74 million KRW ▲Gravity 41.62 million KRW.
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