BYD M9 Details

Set for appearance in BYD showrooms across the country during Q4 2026, the BYD M9 expands BYD’s growing local lineup with a comfortable, premium people mover with the latest technology and long-distance touring capability to meet the demands of both Australian families and fleets.

The M9 range will launch with a seven-seat Premium variant, with an eight-seat Dynamic variant to follow.  Both will be offered in front-wheel drive only.

DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid powertrain

BYD’s latest and ultra-efficient DM-i 5.0 Super Hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and electric motor to deliver a blend of performance, efficiency and long-range capability – up to 145km¹ of EV range and up to 850km¹ of combined range for the top-spec M9 Premium according to the WLTP testing procedure.

The M9 Premium makes use of a 36.60kWh BYD Blade Battery, the Dynamic with a 20.39kWh Blade Battery. Both grades support AC and DC charging, as well as Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality.

Measuring 5,145mm long, 1,970mm wide and 1,805mm high, and riding on a 3,045mm wheelbase, the BYD M9 delivers generous accommodation across all three rows.

Exterior design

The BYD M9’s exterior design draws inspiration from a traditional Chinese garden, with strong horizontal and vertical lines creating a distinctive presence. A dragon-inspired front and elongated silhouette combine to deliver a design that is both elegant and understated.

Interior Comfort and space

Inside, the BYD M9 has been crafted to deliver a premium cabin experience for every occupant. Premium variants feature

• heated and ventilated front seats,
• while second-row captain’s chairs offer heating, ventilation and
• a near zero-gravity seating position.

The BYD M9 pairs generous passenger accommodation with everyday practicality. Offering 470 litres of luggage capacity with all seats in place. A 1,500kg³ braked towing capacity further enhances its versatility.

Safety

Safety was a key focus throughout the M9’s development. With 73 per cent of the vehicle structure made from high-strength steel for enhanced crash performance. It also offers

• up to nine airbags,
• a 360-degree camera system,
• five millimetre-wave radars,
• eight ultrasonic sensors and
• a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technologies.

BYD M9 expands Australian Model range

BYD Australia Chief Operating Officer Stephen Collins said the M9 marks an important addition to BYD’s Australian lineup.

“The BYD M9 will be well suited for Australians needing space and practicality. While also expecting efficient performance with BYD’s advanced DM Super Hybrid powertrain technology.

“The M9 offers superb EV-only driving for daily commutes and exceptional touring range for longer trips. It is perfectly suited for Australian families as well as fleets seeking low operating costs.”

Further details regarding Australian pricing and specifications will be announced closer to the BYD M9’s Australian launch in Q4 2026.

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• Australian specifications announced for seven-seat plug-in hybrid M8 PHEV
• Longest all-electric range MPV with 106km available and 1,032km total combined range
• Comprehensive 360° crash protection including a unique-in-class rear air curtain
• Luxurious cabin delivers category-leading features to support business and family use

GAC M8 PHEV details

Indulgence and practicality are delivered in spades across all facets of the M8 PHEV, which will be oRered in both Premium and Luxury trim levels, and these features underline why GAC has been the leader in sales for luxury MPVs in China for 39 consecutive months.

Described as a first-class cabin, the M8 PHEV’s interior is the most immediate reason for the M8 PHEV’s consumer appeal.

In Luxury specification, the interior is cloaked in high-grade half-aniline leather throughout the interior – a material more commonly seen in six-figure vehicles – the M8 PHEV features two sumptuously equipped captain’s chairs in the central row.

Featuring 10-point air pump massage chairs, leg rests with four-way adjustment, heating and ventilation, personal USB charging ports and a 58° rear recline angle, any passenger will be hard-pressed to complain of discomfort when on the move. All these features remain just a tap away, courtesy of each armrest’s high-definition LCD screen, while the second and third rows both feature the latest standard in child seat restraint compatibility, i-Size.

Upfront, the car’s 10.1” infotainment system controls the vehicle’s immersive 8-speaker sound system and is complete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

The M8 PHEV features a ‘draft free’ air-conditioning system too, ensuring the vehicle’s climate is moderated without blowing air directly at any passenger within the cabin.

Noise-reduction technologies

Passenger comfort is further supported by ten noise-reduction technologies. These include 108 sound-insulation panels, acoustic soundproof glass and twenty cavity partitions that block wind noise transmission and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) technology which actively reduces interior noise by 4dB. 30-rounds of performance optimisation were also conducted to finalise the design of the A-pillars and side mirrors, to further diminish intrusive cabin noise.

Travelling seven-up doesn’t just mean seven people. It also means seven people’s worth of luggage. Thankfully, 15 hooks, 15 storage boxes and 14 cup holders throughout ensures plenty of opportunity to keep the cabin clean and tidy. Meanwhile, rear storage in a regular seven-person configuration is 280L, with a maximum load area of 1,500 litres.

The M8 PHEV’s innovative powertrain adds to the model’s impressive credentials and will appeal to families and business owners alike thanks to its economical qualities.

M8 PHEV engine and transmission

Set to be the only plug-in hybrid MPV available in Australia, the M8 PHEV can deliver 106km of range on pure-electric power alone, thanks to its high-density 25.57KwH Magazine Battery. Capable of charging 0-80% in 30 minutes with a 35kW fast-charging DC outlet. Or 3.5 hours utilising a 6.6kW AC slow charger.

This will cover most daily use cases for Australian users. GAC’s exceptional battery safety record extends to the patented ‘Magazine Battery’ featured in the M8 PHEV, with the unit capable of withstanding fire or explosion, even if crushed with 23-tonnes of force.

For those looking to take a longer road trip, the vehicle’s 2.0-turbo petrol engine and integrated dual-motor two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) can propel the M8 PHEV to a class-leading total range of 1,032km, while delivering charge-sustaining fuel consumption of just 6.05L per 100km (WLTP)1.

While outright power isn’t the key focus of the M8 PHEV, the model is blessed with strong figures relative to vehicle class. Delivering maximum power of 367hp (274kW) and 630Nm torque, the MPV can achieve 0-100km/h in 8.8 seconds – quick enough to help you waft through the city streets with ease.

M8 PHEV Suspension

Most important though is the model’s dynamic performance at each of its four corners. Electromagnetic Damping Suspension (SDC) continuously adjusts the vehicle’s ride characteristics in real time, minimizing in-cabin vibrations, controlling lateral body sway, and reducing jolts from speed bumps or potholes.

Complementing this, the M8 PHEV’s Adaptive Dynamic Control system – combining throttle sensitivity adjustments with suspension management – helps limit both lateral and vertical movement during turns and varying speeds, keeping the vehicle balanced and composed on the move.

As you’d expect of a vehicle of this nature, safety has been an area of intense focus, with the M8 PHEV benefitting from 360° Comprehensive Protection. This includes over 20 driving aids to suit a plethora of driving scenarios, while the vehicle’s interior is equipped with seven-airbags throughout. In addition, an industry-leading 3.2m long side air curtain and the unique addition of rear windshield airbags assist in protecting occupants from rear impacts.

To top oR the M8 PHEV’s impressive range of qualities, V2L technology also makes the M8 PHEV the ultimate Outdoor Mobile Power Station. A godsend for families heading to the bush or beach without power, the vehicle can discharge at up to 3.3kW from its 220V outlet, powering a BBQ grill, vehicle refrigerator, electric kettle, projector, lighting and a typical fan for approximately 4 ½ hours from a second auxiliary battery.

The M8 PHEV is priced from $76,590 and supported by a seven-year unlimited km warranty for the vehicle and eight-year 200,000km battery warranty. Customers will also benefit from five-year complimentary road-side assistance.

1Range calculated based on a fully charged battery and full tank of fuel.

The post GAC M8 PHEV everything you need to know appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

• Strong SUV identity fused with elegant EV styling to reshape both the segment and way of life for the electrified era
• Inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the EV9 combines contrasting qualities of nature and modernity in its character
• Sleek and bold exterior expresses confidence, clarity, and calmness
• Kia’s E-GMP flat-floor EV architecture amplifies interior space with third row seating, enhancing comfort while exuding a sense of high sophistication
• EV9 readied to debut globally later this month, accelerating the brand’s transformation towards a sustainable mobility solutions provider

EV9 Preview design

Kia Corporation has revealed full images of the exterior and interior design of the Kia EV9, its first three-row electric flagship SUV, which encapsulates bold styling and sophisticated elegance inside and out. The Kia EV9 represents a pivotal step forward in the company’s journey towards becoming a sustainable mobility solutions provider.

The bold and confident visual presence of the EV9 is inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which harnesses the creative tension generated by the divergent values of nature and modernity to deliver a harmonious whole. Kia’s designers have fused a unique combination of sleek, sculptural shapes and assured, assertive geometry to deliver a strikingly contemporary yet gracefully serene SUV.

“The Kia EV9 breaks new ground, aiming to redefine standards for design, connectivity, usability and environmental responsibility,” said Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Center. “The Kia EV9 offers customers an exceptionally high-quality proposition and a fresh EV perspective in the family SUV sector. This new vehicle typology provides instinctive experiences and excellent comfort for not just the driver, but all occupants, through innovative use of space, technology and design.”

Exterior design: paving new paths for future electric SUV design

Guided by the brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, Kia’s designers strive to create vehicles with unprecedented visual appeal. In particular, the ‘Bold for Nature’ pillar of the ideology, which inspires the combination of elements from the natural and material worlds, has played a key role in forming the exterior design of the EV9. The result is a vehicle that effortlessly combines an undoubted aura of rugged capability for all conditions, with the serene calmness of a sophisticated EV that paves new paths for future electric SUV design.

The front of the EV9 is denoted by simple clear-cut lines and body surfaces, which exude confidence, clarity and calmness in equal measure. Accentuated by the ‘Digital Pattern Lighting Grille’ and striking vertical headlamps, the EV9’s signature ‘Digital Tiger Face’ imparts a visionary and futuristic look and feel. The Digital Tiger Face features two clusters of small cube lamps within the bodywork adjacent to each headlamp. The EV9’s innovative ‘Star Map LED daytime running lights (DRL)’ creates a new illumination experience and delivers a sophisticated animated lighting pattern that will denote Kia’s Digital Tiger Face for the brand’s future EV models.

Formed from a polygonal design language, the side profile of the EV9 effortlessly combines a strong and indisputable SUV identity with exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. Dynamic triangular fender structures and highly pronounced geometric wheel arches combine with the fuselage body, unifying the polygonal elements into a cohesive structure that presents a determined look. Flush door handles and a tapered back roofline gives a sense of smooth and efficient motion.

At the rear of the vehicle, the simple, clean lines of the tailgate, which are elegantly detailed by the slim rear lights that mirror the design of those at the front, further reflect the EV9’s strong and confident stance.

Interior design: new social space with enhanced comfort and technology

The Kia ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy ‘Technology for Life’ pillar ensures that only technology and innovation that promote positive, intuitive interactions between humans and machines are created – realizing new possibilities for mobility. These values have played a pivotal role in the creation of the interior of the EV9. They have enabled Kia’s designers to prioritize space, comfort and technology for all passengers, reimagining what a family SUV can offer.

Built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV9’s long wheelbase, low beltline, and completely flat electric vehicle architecture have facilitated the creation of generous space for all occupants to connect and relax with lounge-style comfort in all three rows of seats. Offered in both six and seven-seat formats, Kia captured feedback from families to evaluate seating configurations and features to ensure the EV9 delivers equality of space, comfort and experience for all occupants without placing all of its focus on the driver.

Occupants sitting in the first and second-row seats can simultaneously recline their seats to relax and rest when the EV9 is charging. The seats in the second row can be effortlessly swiveled 180 degrees so that occupants can interact with those sitting in the third row. The third-row seats also offer cup holders and charging points for mobile devices.

Spacious, light, airy cabin

Throughout the spacious, light, airy cabin, the EV9 embodies an elegantly simple, premium quality, exceptionally user-friendly design. The open, floating panoramic dashboard extends from the steering wheel to the vehicle’s centre. Two 12.3-inch touch screens integrated with one 5-inch segment display improve the digital experience, offering effortless control of the vehicle’s functions and ensuring physical buttons are kept to a minimum.

The centre console is equipped with ample storage options, including a spacious compartment located at its base. The centre console doors are further designed to add to the overall refinement of the interior space.

The EV9’s extended display high-definition audiovisual, navigation and telematics (AVNT) screen creates a rich and immersive experience. It enhances occupants’ ability to engage and interact with the digital world seamlessly. Beneath the AVNT screen, an array of hidden type touch buttons provides a start/stop function along with AVNT and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) control.

Imminent world premiere: The Kia EV9, Here to reshape the way we move

The Kia EV9 will make its digital global premiere in late March. During the event, Kia will disclose all product information and roll out the global campaign with the slogan, ‘Here to reshape the way we move.’

The post Kia EV9 revealed ahead of its global launch appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

It has been designed to meet the needs of both family buyers and professional drivers seeking a more environmentally friendly way to transport up to seven people in spacious comfort and trademark Mercedes-Benz style.

• The new fully-electric EQV by Mercedes-EQ offers discerning larger families an enticing mix of luxury and practicality, combined with the opportunity to substantially reduce their impact on the environment
• For professional drivers and transfer businesses, the EQV combines lower daily running and scheduled servicing costs with a spacious, luxurious and configurable passenger compartment

The latest member of the Mercedes-EQ family combines low emission mobility with impressive driving abilities, high functionality and aesthetic design as the first fully-electric luxury people mover from Mercedes-Benz.

Clever packaging of the high-voltage battery beneath the floor means there is no compromising on space for the driver and up to six additional passengers, with a standard configuration featuring two armchairs in the second row and a three-berth bench seat in the third row. As a no-cost option, the EQV can be specified with four individual leather armchairs in the rear compartment, making it the ideal choice for airport transfers or as an executive shuttle.

With its high roofline, generous proportions and dual electrically-operated sliding doors, the EQV manages to be both practical and luxurious at the same time.

“For large families or transfer operators, the EQV offers all the space and practicality they need, but with less impact on the environment, the potential to lower running costs and no compromise on luxury,” says Diane Tarr, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Vans Australia and New Zealand.

“This means that it offers all of the typical qualities of the brand and category that our customers expect, whether as a family car or a shuttle vehicle.”

EQV Luxury

The luxurious ambience extends to the driver and front-seat passenger, with power-adjustable seats equipped with memory settings, lumbar support and seat heating. There’s also the acclaimed MBUX infotainment system, which operates audio, telephony, navigation and vehicle settings, with many popular functions able to be voice-activated simply by saying “Hey Mercedes” followed by a command. All functions including navigation can also be accessed via a 10.25-inch central touchscreen.

Pre-entry climate control is an EV-specific feature that can be used to pre-set the desired cabin temperature for a more comfortable start to journeys. This can be activated via the instrument cluster or the MBUX system.

Other features and displays available via the EQ tile in the main menu of the MBUX system include the charging current, energy flow and consumption histogram. The media display can also be used to operate the navigation and charge functions, as well as the driving modes.

The EQV’s practical credentials also extend to exceptional storage and flexibility, with a configurable space capable of accommodating up to 1030 litres of cargo. The lift-style Easy Pack Tailgate can be opened and closed electrically at the touch of a button and includes a separately opening rear window.

EQV Assured power and progress

The EQV utilises a single e-motor sending up to 150 kW of power and 365 Nm of torque to the front wheels, lending impressive driving flexibility around town and composed highway cruising. The 90 kWh battery delivers an indicative range of up to 418 km¹ and uses 26.32 kWh per 100km¹ (NEDC). Thanks to a DC charging capacity of up to 110 kW¹, top-ups from 10 to 80% can be achieved at a rapid charging facility in approximately 45 minutes¹. Using up to 11 kW AC, equipment such as the Mercedes-Benz Wallbox available for residential installations, can be used to recharge from 0 to 100% in approximately 10 hours¹.

The positioning of the lithium-ion battery pack beneath the floor contributes to a lower centre of gravity which improves the handling characteristics, while standard AIRMATIC air suspension adds to the luxurious experience with high-quality suspension and damping comfort that continuously adapts to the prevailing road conditions.

The driver can choose from four driving programs, emphasising aspects of economic driving (two modes), comfort or sportiness. There are also five levels of energy recuperation that recover energy during deceleration. In the most active mode, D-, deceleration and therefore recuperation is at its strongest, requiring less manual braking and maximising driving range. The D, D+ and D++ modes progressively reduce active deceleration, while DAuto mode uses a radar sensor to automatically adjust the recuperation level to the traffic situation.

Safety is standard, in every seat

A comprehensive suite of safety programs includes DISTRONIC Active Distance Assist cruise control, a 360° camera with dynamic guidelines, driver and co-driver airbags (front, thorax and window), window bags from the A to D pillars, Active Parking Assist, Active Brake Assist, Hill-Start Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Crosswind Assist, an LED Intelligent Light System with Highbeam Assist Plus, reversing camera and sensors, and rain-sensing wipers.

Other standard features include a high-quality Burmester surround sound audio system, THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control with semi-automatic rear airconditioning, Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^®, and a leather multifunction steering wheel.

The attractive exterior is finished with the EQV Exterior Design Package including black and chrome highlights and an AMG spoiler lip. Anodised roof rails and 18-inch black high-sheen alloy wheels complete the sleek, distinctive appearance.

The EQV is covered by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for private use (5 Years / 250,000km for commercial use), and eight years or 160,000 km for the battery pack. Servicing is recommended once a year or every 40,000km.

Included is a one-year complimentary Chargefox subscription, providing customers with one year of complimentary, unlimited charging at all Chargefox ultra-rapid stations and participating fast charging stations around Australia.*

(*Chargefox Rapid and Ultra-rapid charging stations only, some exclusions apply. Customer must register with Chargefox to receive these services.)

EQV Pricing

The new Mercedes-Benz EQV is priced from $155,338 (MRLP) and is available to order from 1 December 2022.

As you may be aware, the MRLP includes GST and any LCT applicable to the base / standard specification model, but EXCLUDES ALL ON ROAD COSTS such as, for example, registration fees, stamp duty, CTP and the like. For drive away price information, customers should contact authorised Mercedes-EQV Retailers

Notes

1 The declared range and energy consumption figures are indicative only and determined by testing under standardised laboratory conditions to comply with ADR 81/02. Real world energy consumption is influenced by many additional factors such as individual driving style, load, traffic, ambient temperature and vehicle condition. Charging times are indicative only and can vary depending on many factors including but not limited to ambient conditions, auxiliary consumables (e.g. seat heating and air-conditioning) and capabilities of charging infrastructure capacity and/or supply. The declared energy consumption figures should only be used for the purpose of comparison amongst vehicles.

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A clean sheet design from the ground up, the all-new MIFA 9’s striking exterior, luxurious interior, zero tailpipe emissions, fast-charging capability and range of up to 440kms* ensures the future of mobility for drivers and passengers is redefined.

“LDV is backed by SAIC, one of the world’s largest OEMs with extensive experience as an electric vehicle manufacturer in China, arguably the fastest moving EV market in the world,” says Dinesh Chinnappa, LDV General Manager.

“As a result, LDV is leading the charge when it comes to rolling out all-electric commercial vehicles in Australia. With levels of comfort, convenience and luxury not seen in the people mover segment before, the all-new MIFA 9 is set to be the new benchmark for early adopters, SMEs and corporate transport businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint.”

EXTERIOR & INTERIOR

The all-new MIFA 9 doesn’t compromise on style. Available in Mode, Executive and Luxe trim levels, its clean design and distinctive lines, LED headlights and daytime running lights, signature rear LEDs and dynamic indicators give it a commanding presence.

Adding to this presence are distinctive 18” star style or bold 19” multi-spoke alloys (depending on variant). The colour palette includes Blanc White, Dynasty Red, Metal Black, Pearl White, Mica Blue and a choice of Concrete Grey or Snow Cyan with an accented black roof. All are supported with a black leather trim interior colour.

Inside, MIFA 9 embarks on a new era of comfort for both driver and passengers. Ease of entry and egress is made simple with power-sliding side doors (on the Executive and Luxe) that give access to a smartly packaged 2-2-3 seating format that allows plenty of room and central aisle access. An eight-seat model is expected to arrive early in 2023.

In the top Luxe variant, all-new MIFA 9 is specified with Captain’s Chairs that come with heating, cooling, massage and recline function. Fold-out tray tables, footrests, individual touchscreen controls for the multi-zone climate control, 7 USB ports throughout the cabin, a 220V power outlet and the option of a 6, 8 or 12-speaker sound system complete the picture for passengers. The sliding third row seating allowing up to 1,010 litres of available luggage space when all 7 seats are filled, and up to 2,179 litres when just four seats are occupied. People moving has never been this easy or luxurious.

Up front, key vehicle data is fed to the driver via a dedicated 7-inch digital display, while additional sound, comfort and vehicle information can be accessed via a 12.3” touchscreen complete with wired Apple CarPlay^TM and smartphone connectivity. Also available is a multi-function, leather, heated steering wheel, digital rear view mirror and wireless mobile charging pad.

POWERTRAIN

At the heart of the all-new MIFA 9 is an 90kWh lithium-ion battery with cells from CATL, a respected global leader in battery technology and manufacturing, and a supplier to many tier one OEMs.

Packaged centrally in the vehicle to ensure optimal weight distribution and maximum internal cabin space, the battery can be charged via an 11kw charger in approximately 8.5 hours. DC fast-charging takes approximately 36 minutes to charge from 30-80%*.

Powering the front wheels, the battery delivers 180kW and 350Nm, and consumes charge at a rate of between 21.3kWh and 21.8kWh per 100km. Depending on driving style and conditions, the all-new MIFA 9 has a maximum range of up to 440kms^.

In addition, regenerative braking turns kinetic energy into electrical power while helping slow the car down and feeding that power back into your battery.

SAFETY

Safety is a non-negotiable of every new LDV model and the all-new MIFA 9 is no exception with its ultra-high strength safety cell and full suite of active and passive ADAS safety features to protect both driver and passengers.

Alongside driver, passenger, side and full-length curtain airbags, each MIFA 9 comes with the following as standard:

• Blind Spot Detection
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• ABS, ESP & Emergency Brake Assist
• Lane Departure Warning & Lane Change Assist
• Fatigue Reminder & Attention Assist
• Full LED Adaptive Headlights with Auto Beam Assist
• Rear Collision Warning
• Speed Assist System

PRICE & OWNERSHIP

The all-new LDV MIFA 9 Mode starts from $106,000 RRP, followed by Executive from $117,000 RRP and Luxe from $131,000 RRP.

Whether you’re an early adopter, SME or transport business, the all-new LDV MIFA 9 takes the worry out of motoring with a comprehensive, factory backed, 5-year/200,000km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/ 200,000km battery warranty.

Servicing intervals of once every 2 years / 30,000km. In addition, 5-years Roadside Assistance means coverage 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, for the period of your manufacturer’s warranty.

SUMMARY

“The all-new MIFA 9 transforms what people movers stand for. An exercise in design cool, high levels of standard safety and convenience features, zero tail-pipe emissions, and room for up to seven passengers to travel in luxury – and serene silence,” concludes Dinesh Chinnappa.

“Every major OEM is committed to developing electric vehicles but the growing influence of China’s EV market on the rest of the world is significant – and we in Australia are now benefiting from that influence with the arrival of the all-new MIFA 9,” concludes Dinesh Chinnappa, LDV General Manager.

The all-new LDV MIFA 9 is on sale now. Please visit https://www.ldvautomotive.com.au/ for more information.

The post LDV MIFA 9 electric people mover launched appeared first on Eco Car Guide.

Kia now has four different powertrains for the Sorento, diesel, petrol, hybrid electric and plug in hybrid electric.

Now I have taken many a long trip over the years in the Kia Sorento, It’s an excellent long distance cruiser, but this was the first in a hybrid and I was curious to see how it went.

 TO LISTEN TO THE Sorento Hybrid RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

This particular vehicle was a front wheel drive version and as usual for KIA they packed a heap of luxury, comfort and safety features in there. I especially appreciated the heated electric seats with additional lumbar support as the trip was cold and wet and long.

Sorento Hybrid is powered by a 1.6l petrol engine that produces 132kW and 265Nm from 1600rpm. The electric motor adds another 44kW and interestingly 264Nm from 0-1500rpm. That’s instantaneous torque.

The beauty of hybrid engines is that there is no range anxiety, they drive like a normal petrol engine but with better economy. We ran at around 7.9l/100k over the trip which was ok. However long distance trips don’t showcase the hybrids qualities best.

Priced from $66,750 the Kia Sorento HEV GT-Line is good value as a family SUV

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

Some Other Sorento Articles

• 1- Kia Sorento GT Line PHEV 2022 Motoring Minute Review
• 2 – Kia Sorento Sport Plus AWD SUV 2021 Review
• 3 – Kia Sorento PHEV AWD SUV 2021 Review
• 4 – All-new Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid – PHEV
• 5 – Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid added to model range
• 6 – Kia Sorento GT Line 3.5L Petrol SUV 2021 Review
• 7 – Kia Sorento GT-Line AWD 2021 Review
• 8 – Kia Sorento GT Line 2021 Radio Review
• 9 – Kia Sorento Radio Review

Also Look At

• Hyundai Santa Fe
• Peugeot 5008 GT
• Skoda Kodiaq
• Mazda CX-8
• Haval H6 Hybrid
• Toyota Kluger Hybrid

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Motoring Minute is heard around Australia every day on over 50 radio channels through the Torque Radio network. 

Our Motoring Minute has an average daily audience of over 550,000 listeners and they are also syndicated through various news sites around Australia.

Additionally Motoring Minute is also broadcast as part of Overdrive Radio Program, which is broadcast through the Community Radio Network across Australia.

Kia Sorento Hybrid (HEV) Model Details

Released in April 2022, the Hybrid (HEV) GT-Line FWD and AWD has joined the Sorento range locally. This addition sees Sorento as the only vehicle available in Australia to offer naturally aspirated petrol, diesel, PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) and HEV variants.

“Sorento already provided one of the most versatile, practical and spacious large SUVs on the market and now in an industry first, it also offers Australian buyers the most diverse powertrain lineup to choose from within a model range,” said Kia’s Chief Operating Officer, Damien Meredith.

“The addition of PHEV and HEV options to the popular Sorento range is another example of Kia’s progress in vehicle electrification. Along with the recently launched and award winning EV6, and the next-generation Niro range of electric vehicles arriving in the very near future, Kia Australia is offering a variety of choices in its contribution to a greener future.”

 Sorento Hybrid engine details

The Sorento Parallel Hybrid System is comprised of a Smartstream 1.6 litre turbo petrol engine offering optimal fuel efficiency with impressive power (132kW) and torque (265Nm). 

An electric motor producing 44kW and 264Nm of torque is mounted between the petrol engine and transmission.  This arrangement allows the full output of both the petrol engine and/or electric motor to be transferred in parallel through the transmission, with minimal energy loss.

Combined Petrol + Electric output is 169kW and 350Nm.

Combined Fuel Consumption is 5.3L/100km (FWD) and 5.8L/100km (AWD) respectively on the ADR 81/02 combined fuel cycle.Energy storage is managed by a high voltage 1kWh Lithium-Ion polymer battery located under the vehicle floor.

Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, the Sorento HEV FWD and AWD are available in GT-line specification only and offer a wide array of safety, comfort and convenience features, including an intelligently designed, customisable 12.3” Driver Digital Cluster providing the status of the hybrid charging system. Its high-resolution screen makes it easy to read with a wealth of information at a glance.

 Sorento Hybrid Features

Designed to improve visibility for blind spots, the Blind-spot View Monitor (BVM) uses the side cameras so that when you indicate left or right, the cluster will show the view of the road in your blind spot.

The 10.25” Audio Visual Navigation unit displays charging station locations and information.  The screen can be split in two for easy access to different apps, vehicle information and multimedia content, and allows the control of the 12-speaker BOSE^® premium surround system, which is compatible with wired Android Auto^TM and Apple CarPlay^TM.

 Kia Sorento Range Pricing

*MLP (RRP) Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

**Due to the complexity of drive away pricing which varies state by state, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles, national drive away pricing is not available on Sorento HEV and PHEV variants. A drive away price estimation, calculated by state, is available on the Kia website.

The post Kia Sorento Hybrid GT-Line FWD 2022 Review appeared first on Eco Car Guide.