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Power and Efficiency: 2025 Kia Sportage HEV/PHEV Powertrains

Power and Efficiency: 2025 Kia Sportage HEV/PHEV Powertrains

2025 Kia Sportage Hev

2025 Kia Sportage Hev

The new Kia Sportage Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) models represent significant advancements in hybrid technology, offering an optimal balance of power and efficiency for the Canadian market. 

HEV and PHEV: What’s the Difference?

It is essential to understand the distinction between HEV and PHEV technologies:

  • HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle): Utilizes a combination of gasoline engine and electric motor, with the battery charged through regenerative braking and the gasoline engine.
  • PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle): Features a larger battery that can be charged via an external power source, allowing for extended electric-only driving range.

Power Output: A Significant Upgrade

The new Sportage hybrid models offer substantial power improvements over their conventional counterparts:

  • Hybrid Electric Vehicle: 227 horsepower
  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle: 261 horsepower

These figures represent a notable increase from the standard gasoline Sportage, which typically produces 187 horsepower. The electric motors in these hybrid systems provide instantaneous torque, resulting in responsive acceleration across various driving conditions.

Core Engine: 1.6L Gamma II Turbo GDI

The HEV and PHEV models have Kia’s 1.6L Gamma II Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine. Key specifications include:

  • Displacement: 1,598 cc
  • Bore x Stroke: 75.6 mm x 89.0 mm
  • Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
  • Maximum Power: 177 hp @ 5,500 rpm
  • Maximum Torque: 265 Nm @ 1,500-4,500 rpm

The turbocharger enhances performance at higher altitudes, while the direct injection system optimizes fuel efficiency.

Electric Motor Integration

The electric motors in both models work in conjunction with the gasoline engine:

  • Hybrid Electric Vehicle Electric Motor: 44.2 kW (59 hp)
  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Electric Motor: 66.9 kW (90 hp)

These motors contribute additional power and enable electric-only operation at lower speeds. The PHEV model offers an electric-only range of up to 55 km, suitable for short urban commutes.

Battery Technology

The battery systems in these hybrid models are crucial components:

  • Hybrid Electric Vehicle Battery: 1.49 kWh Lithium-ion polymer
  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Battery: 13.8 kWh Lithium-ion polymer

The larger battery capacity of the PHEV enables its extended electric range. Both systems maintain performance in cold weather conditions typical of Canadian winters.

Transmission System

The HEV and PHEV models feature a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This transmission choice offers several advantages:

  • Familiar driving dynamics
  • Adaptability to diverse driving conditions
  • Potential for enhanced long-term reliability

The inclusion of paddle shifters provides drivers with additional control in specific driving scenarios.

Fuel Efficiency

The Sportage hybrid models demonstrate impressive fuel economy:

  • Hybrid Electric Vehicle: 6.1 L/100 km city, 6.3 L/100 km highway
  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle: 2.7 Le/100 km city, 3.0 Le/100 km highway

Note: “Le” denotes “Liters equivalent,” accounting for both gasoline and electric power consumption.

These figures represent significant improvements over conventional gasoline models, allowing PHEV users to complete short commutes solely on electric power.

All-Wheel Drive System

Both hybrid models come standard with all-wheel drive capability. This system dynamically distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed, providing enhanced traction across various Canadian driving conditions.

Drive Modes

The Sportage HEV and PHEV offer multiple driving modes to accommodate different conditions and preferences:

  • Eco: Optimizes efficiency
  • Sport: Enhances throttle response and transmission behaviour for a more dynamic driving experience
  • Smart: Adapts to individual driving patterns
  • Snow: Optimizes traction in winter conditions

The PHEV model includes additional modes:

  • EV: Prioritizes electric-only operation
  • HEV: Balances gasoline and electric power for optimal efficiency

Regenerative Braking System

Both models incorporate regenerative braking technology, which captures kinetic energy during deceleration to recharge the battery. The system’s intensity can be adjusted via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, allowing drivers to optimize energy recapture.

PHEV Charging Capabilities

The Sportage PHEV can be fully charged in approximately two hours using a Level 2 (240V) charger. Overnight charging is possible using a standard 120V household outlet.

Kia’s partnership with ChargePoint provides PHEV owners access to an extensive network of charging stations across Canada. The Kia Connect application offers features such as charging station location, battery status monitoring, and remote cabin pre-conditioning.

Performance in Canadian Conditions

The Sportage HEV and PHEV are engineered to perform in diverse Canadian weather conditions:

  • Cold Weather Performance: Integrated battery heating system ensures optimal functionality in low temperatures.
  • Hill Start Assist: Facilitates smooth starts on inclines.
  • Downhill Brake Control: Provides additional stability during steep descents.

Towing Capacity

Despite their hybrid powertrains, these Sportage models maintain respectable towing capabilities:

  • Hybrid Electric Vehicle Towing Capacity: 907 kg (2,000 lbs)
  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle  Towing Capacity: 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)

These capacities are sufficient for towing small trailers or watercraft.

2025 Kia Sportage HEV/PHEV: Power and Efficiency

The new Kia Sportage HEV and PHEV powertrains represent a significant advancement in the SUV market. They offer the versatility and capability required by Canadian drivers, combined with the efficiency demanded by modern consumers. These powertrains are well-suited to a variety of driving scenarios, from urban commuting to long-distance travel and light off-road use.

The blend of power, efficiency, and all-weather capability positions the Sportage HEV and PHEV as compelling options in the Canadian automotive market. These models meet current expectations for hybrid SUVs and set new standards for the segment.

 

To learn more on Kia Sportage Hev/Phev visit Kia.ca

Categories: Kia