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Manila Bulletin devider Drive devider The Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid challenges midsize SUV conventions

The Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid challenges midsize SUV conventions

Published Jun 4, 2025 06:03 am

At A Glance

  • We take the Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid on a three-day media drive, on a challenging 600-plus kilometer route from Metro Manila to Lubo Lake, Kibungan, Benguet, passing through Baguio City.
The hybrid surge continues to gain traction in the local midsize SUV segment, and Kia Philippines is entering the fray with a bold contender: the 2025 Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid AWD. During a recent three-day media drive, we tested this vehicle on a challenging 600-plus kilometer route from Metro Manila to Kibungan, Benguet, passing through Baguio City. The result? A clearer understanding of what Kia’s electrified three-row SUV can offer in one of the most competitive vehicle categories in the country.
Kia positions the Sorento as a competitor to diesel-powered ladder-frame SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, and Ford Everest. This may seem ambitious given its monocoque chassis and hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain, but after driving through expressways, mountain passes, and unpaved trails, the Sorento demonstrated its capability from a unique perspective.
What stood out during the drive—whether navigating the twists of Kennon Road or crawling over loose gravel toward Lubo Lake—was the comfort experienced in all three rows. The suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly, minimizing cabin disturbances even on rough paths. The driver benefited from supportive seat bolsters and light steering, making long drives less tiring, while passengers enjoyed well-cushioned seats, quiet acoustics, and consistent air conditioning. A well-sorted suspension package also made sure the vehicle was up to snuff in the tight, mountain twisties of Benguet. Even after hours of driving, fatigue was kept at bay, a rare feat for a seven-seater tasked with both urban and trail duties.
Under the hood, the Sorento Turbo Hybrid combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion polymer battery, generating a total of 235 PS and 367 Nm of torque. This output slightly exceeds that of the Honda CR-V e:HEV and significantly surpasses most entry-level diesel midsize SUVs. Power is distributed to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission in the top-spec SX AWD variant, while the lower EX and EX+ trims are front-wheel drive.
Despite a ground clearance of just 174 mm, the Sorento adeptly navigated the rugged trail to Lubo Lake with composure. Its 360-degree camera system and AWD traction helped prevent body damage on narrow paths and rocky inclines. The ride was firm yet controlled, and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels remained low even on unpaved roads. On the highway, the Sorento offered confident overtaking and smooth acceleration with minimal reliance on high revs, even on steep inclines.
Fuel efficiency was another strong point. Some media participants reported fuel economy figures of up to 23 km/L under eco-conscious driving conditions, while more aggressive driving still yielded averages between 11 and 15 km/L over the three-day trip. The regenerative braking system is adjustable across three levels, although it disables when the battery is full—a limitation that became apparent during long downhill descents, where the 1.6-liter turbo engine struggled to provide adequate engine braking.
The cabin reflects Kia’s push toward a premium experience. The Sorento features twin 12.3-inch digital displays for gauges and infotainment, a high center console with a rotary gear selector, ventilated front seats, and soft-touch materials throughout. The second-row seating is spacious and equipped with USB-C ports integrated into the seatbacks, while the third row is suitable for short trips and includes its own A/C vents and fan control. With the second and third rows folded, maximum cargo space reaches 2,139 liters.
Additional features include a Smart Tailgate, multiple terrain modes (Snow, Mud, and Sand), wireless charging, and advanced driver aids such as blind spot view monitors, Smart Cruise Control, and lane keeping assist. However, a notable omission is the lack of an accessible tire pressure monitoring system.
The 2025 Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid is priced at ₱2,188,000 for the EX, ₱2,588,000 for the EX+, and ₱2,888,000 for the range-topping SX AWD. While positioned higher than most diesel body-on-frame competitors, the Sorento offers a different kind of value: refined driving dynamics akin to a premium sedan, and family-friendly technology, wrapped in a premium SUV package. Not to mention that none of its ladder-frame competitors run on a hybrid setup.
Although it may not fit the mold of traditional midsize SUVs, Kia’s electrified Sorento presents an appealing alternative for those who may not require ladder-frame toughness but still desire space, power, and a touch of eco-conscious sophistication.

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