First Drive Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid: The Best Comes Last

Almost 70 Kilometers Electrically, Then Thirsty

Press the start button and let's go: In fact, in mild weather, almost 70 kilometers can be covered purely electrically, as long as the "kick-down" is not exceeded. The electric motor already provides ample power and performance in (almost) all situations. Only when you need to go faster on highways do you wonder why the Tiger doesn’t jump as quickly as one would expect from 265 hp.

And long distances at high speeds with an empty battery also affect consumption: The Tiger quickly jumps over 10 l/100 km and consumes seven to eight in everyday use. But if you diligently charge and commute no further than 70 kilometers per day, you can realistically achieve the factory specifications. And AC charging works with 7.2 kW, taking one hour and 45 minutes to go from ten to 100 percent. Kia indicates five hours and 27 minutes on a household socket with 2.3 kW. And: The seven-year warranty naturally also applies to the battery. The chassis always operates precisely stiff and only allows significant bumps to rumble through slightly.

Visual Borrowings from the EV6

Software and safety assistants have been adapted from the EV6, including new app functions. There are now also USB ports in the front seats, whose rear side can also be used as coat hooks.

In terms of pricing, the Tiger is tame: The plug-in base starts at 44,390 euros gross, which is about 37,300 euros net. In 2022, it is further reduced by the innovation premium of 7,177.50 euros (4,500 euros state premium, manufacturer share of 2,250 euros plus VAT) to 37,212.50 euros gross, which is about 31,270 euros net. The "bare" non-electrified base starts at about 23,350 euros net, and the mild hybrid diesels start at just under 25,580 euros.

What Does This Mean?

Based on the previous order intakes from Kia Germany, the plug-in is likely to make up nearly half of the Sportage orders - thus, the best (and most important) comes last in this case.