The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid has been recognized in the Motor1.com 2022 Star Awards, taking the top honors in the Best SUV category. Boasting improvements in design, performance, and roominess from the previous Sportage, the hybrid version of the 5th generation Sportage paves the way toward electrification in Kia’s ongoing cadence of more alternative fuel offerings guided by the brand’s ‘Plan S’ global strategy.
Commenting on the accomplishment, Steven Center, the Executive Vice Presicent of Kia America, said:
“We are thrilled the esteemed editors at Motor1.com have recognized the relentless effort we put into making the hybrid version of our longest running nameplate. Built upon the Sportage’s foundation of superb driving dynamics, cutting-edge design, and vast array of technology, a hybrid not only strengthens the Sportage lineup, but also our ‘Plan S’ product portfolio.”
Motor1.com’s second annual Star Awards considers all new vehicles that have been rated by its team of expert editors. Using its curated Star Rating system, Motor1.com then chose top rated contestants for a week of head-to-head testing on a variety of proving grounds. Considering factors such as design, safety, performance, and comfort, editors then debate and vote on a winner in each category. According to Seyth Miersma, editor-in-chief of Motor1.com:
“With tremendous competition across segments and price points, awarding our favorite SUV of the year is never easy. The Kia Sportage Hybrid impressed our team with its design, feature set, and blend of refinement and enthusiasm on-road. We think it offers fantastic value and flexibility to a wide range of drivers.”
The new Sportage Hybrid is defined by a bold blend of modern styling and sporty visual elements, with an interior laden with some of the latest advancements in technology, including an expansive list of ADAS features and available dual panoramic display screens. The compact SUV’s electrified performance comes from a seamless hybrid powertrain combining a 1.6L turbocharged engine with a 44-kw (60hp) motor rated at 17.8/18.7/18.2 km per liter city/highway/combined in FWD configurations and 16.1/16.1/16.1 km/l in AWD versions. Together, the engine and motor make 227 hp channeled to either front or 4 wheels via an active all-wheel-drive system.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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