At the moment, there are three electrified models in the Kia Philippines lineup: the fully-electric EV6 and EV9, and the hybrid Carnival. Now, there’s a fourth model that joins the range.
That would be the new hybrid version of the Kia Sorento, effectively overhauling the entire variant list in its latest iteration. How so? Kia has ditched the familiar 2.2-liter diesel, making this premium crossover exclusively electrified.
Powering the Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid is a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine mated to a single electric motor with a 1.49kWh battery. That gives it a total system output of 232hp and 367Nm of torque. It then shifts with a six-speed automatic transmission, so the entire powertrain package is essentially lifted from the Carnival Hybrid. Interestingly, the engine is calibrated to run on 91-octane fuel, and Kia Philippines claims it can achieve 12-20km/L without much effort.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
The all-electric Mini Aceman crossover is now in PH, priced at P3.55-M
It’s TCITX now—not TITE, TITex, or TITX—and it’ll open in 2028
Hybridization isn’t the only huge deal here. For the last couple of years, the Sorento had one hand tied behind its back due to the lack of an all-wheel-drive option. While not a huge deal-breaker per se, a two-wheel-drive flagship crossover just didn’t sit right with us.
Thankfully, that has now been rectified as the Sorento is finally available with all-wheel drive. It even comes with terrain modes for those feeling a little more adventurous. There’s the standard setting, along with Sand, Mud, and Snow modes—you know, just in case. But for those content with power being sent to just the front wheels, there are still two-wheel-drive versions available.
The new Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid comes with a rather clever chassis control feature. Dubbed the E-VMC (Electrification–Vehicle Motion Control), it makes use of the electric motor to control vehicle pitch, roll, and dive by modulating power output. Its main benefit is keeping the body level as much as possible. Having experienced it in the Carnival, we have high expectations for the Sorento’s handling and ride comfort.
Inside, the dashboard gets an overhaul similar to the Carnival’s look. It now packs a refreshed dual-screen setup that integrates the instrument cluster and the infotainment system, measuring 12.3 inches each. In it are various vehicle settings and entertainment options, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Given the Sorento’s size, it’s no surprise that it comes with three rows of seats inside. Depending on the trim level chosen, the updated crossover gets a premium audio system care of Bose, a full-length panoramic sunroof, as well as seat ventilation. Of course, advanced driver-assist systems under the Kia DriveWise suite are fitted standard (adaptive cruise, autonomous emergency braking, etc), along with a surround-view monitor.
As for design, the new Sorento adapts Kia’s latest design language with a more geometric theme. It’s most obvious at the front with its T-shaped headlights and wider grille. All variants get new wheel designs, as well as redesigned front and rear bumpers.
Interested? Check out the price and variant list to see if this hybrid crossover fits your budget. For everything you need to know about the Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid, read our full guide.
Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid 2025: Variants and prices
- Sorento EX Turbo Hybrid 4x2 – P2,188,000
- Sorento EX+ Turbo Hybrid 4x2 – P2,588,000
- Sorento SX Turbo Hybrid AWD – P2,888,000
