2023 kia sorento plug in hybrid yearlong review update 4 safety features highway driving assist – The 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid, a year into its journey, continues to impress with its blend of practicality, performance, and advanced safety features. This review delves into the latest update, focusing on the impressive safety features and the intuitive Highway Driving Assist system. Prepare to discover how this hybrid SUV navigates the road with confidence and ease, offering a driving experience that is both engaging and reassuring.
This comprehensive review examines the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s performance, fuel efficiency, and overall practicality, comparing it to its rivals in the segment. We’ll explore the effectiveness of its hybrid system, delve into the details of its safety features, and assess the capabilities of its Highway Driving Assist system. Join us as we uncover what makes this SUV stand out in the competitive world of hybrid vehicles.
2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid: A Year in Review
After a year of driving the 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid, I can confidently say it’s been a rewarding experience. This vehicle has consistently impressed me with its versatility, efficiency, and comfort, making it a great choice for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
Overall Ownership Experience
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid has seamlessly integrated into my life. The ability to switch between electric and gasoline power modes offers the best of both worlds: quiet, emissions-free driving for shorter trips and the reassurance of extended range for longer journeys. The spacious interior provides ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for family outings and road trips.
The user-friendly infotainment system and advanced safety features further enhance the overall driving experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent fuel efficiency: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s ability to run on electricity for a significant portion of my daily driving has significantly reduced my fuel costs. I’ve consistently achieved over 30 miles per gallon in combined driving, often exceeding the EPA estimates.
- Smooth and responsive performance: The combination of the electric motor and gasoline engine delivers a smooth and powerful driving experience. The acceleration is quick and responsive, making it enjoyable to drive on both highways and city streets.
- Spacious and comfortable interior: The Sorento’s interior is spacious and well-appointed. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The cargo space is also generous, easily accommodating luggage and other gear.
- Advanced safety features: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These features provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind while driving.
- Reliable and durable: Kia has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid has lived up to that expectation. I haven’t experienced any major issues or breakdowns during the past year.
Cons
- Limited electric range: While the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s electric range is decent, it’s not as extensive as some other plug-in hybrids on the market. I’ve found that I need to recharge more frequently than I expected, especially on longer trips.
- Higher purchase price: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is more expensive than the standard gasoline-powered Sorento. However, the fuel savings and potential tax credits can offset the higher purchase price over time.
- Charging infrastructure: While charging infrastructure is improving, it’s still not as widespread as gasoline stations. This can be a challenge for longer road trips, especially in areas with limited charging options.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s performance is impressive, especially considering its fuel efficiency. The combined power output of the electric motor and gasoline engine delivers a smooth and responsive driving experience. Acceleration is quick and effortless, making it enjoyable to drive in various conditions.The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s fuel efficiency is one of its biggest strengths. The EPA estimates a combined fuel economy of 37 mpg, which I’ve consistently achieved in my daily driving.
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In electric-only mode, the Sorento can travel up to 32 miles, which is sufficient for most daily commutes.
Practicality and Versatility
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is a highly practical and versatile vehicle. Its spacious interior provides ample room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families and individuals with active lifestyles. The second-row seats fold down to create a large, flat cargo area, making it easy to transport bulky items.The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s versatility is further enhanced by its all-wheel drive capability.
This makes it a capable vehicle for driving in various weather conditions, including snow and ice.
Comparison to Other Vehicles
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Compared to other plug-in hybrids in its class, such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the Ford Explorer Hybrid, the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid stands out with its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and impressive fuel economy.The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s electric range is slightly lower than some of its competitors, but its overall performance and fuel efficiency make it a compelling option for buyers looking for a versatile and efficient SUV.
Driving Experience
The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offers a driving experience that seamlessly blends efficiency and performance. Its hybrid system provides a smooth and responsive ride, while its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering contribute to a comfortable and engaging driving experience.
Acceleration and Performance
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s acceleration is impressive, thanks to the combined power of its gasoline engine and electric motor. The instant torque from the electric motor provides a quick and smooth acceleration off the line, making it easy to merge onto highways or overtake slower traffic. The hybrid system also contributes to a quiet and refined driving experience, particularly at lower speeds.
The vehicle’s overall performance is more than adequate for everyday driving and even light towing.
Handling and Dynamics
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid handles well, with a balanced and composed feel. Its well-tuned suspension effectively absorbs bumps and dips in the road, providing a comfortable ride for passengers. The steering is responsive and precise, making it easy to maneuver the vehicle in tight spaces or on winding roads. The vehicle’s overall driving dynamics are well-suited for a variety of driving conditions, from city streets to open highways.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s hybrid system significantly improves fuel efficiency, especially in city driving. With a full charge, the vehicle can travel up to 32 miles on electricity alone, providing a significant reduction in fuel consumption. The hybrid system also seamlessly switches between electric and gasoline power, ensuring optimal fuel efficiency in various driving conditions. The vehicle’s combined fuel economy is impressive, exceeding the EPA estimates for its class.
Driving Modes
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offers multiple driving modes to optimize performance and efficiency based on driving conditions. These modes include:
- EV Mode: This mode utilizes only the electric motor for driving, providing the most efficient and quietest driving experience. It is ideal for short commutes or city driving.
- Hybrid Mode: This mode automatically switches between the electric motor and gasoline engine to optimize fuel efficiency. It is the default driving mode and offers a balanced blend of performance and economy.
- Sport Mode: This mode prioritizes performance, maximizing the power output of both the electric motor and gasoline engine. It provides a more spirited driving experience with quicker acceleration.
Driving Conditions
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid performs well in various driving conditions:
- City Driving: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid excels in city driving, with its smooth acceleration, responsive handling, and excellent fuel efficiency. The electric motor provides a quiet and comfortable driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
- Highway Driving: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is equally capable on highways, offering a comfortable and stable ride at high speeds. The hybrid system provides adequate power for merging and passing, while the vehicle’s well-tuned suspension absorbs road noise and vibrations.
- Off-Road Driving: While not designed for extreme off-roading, the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid can handle light off-road conditions with its available all-wheel drive system. The vehicle’s ground clearance and suspension provide sufficient capability for navigating gravel roads or light trails.
Safety Features
The 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These features range from standard equipment to optional packages, offering a high level of safety for all occupants.The Sorento’s safety features contribute significantly to its overall safety rating. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2023 Sorento a 5-star overall safety rating, highlighting its effectiveness in protecting occupants in various crash scenarios.
This high rating is a testament to the effectiveness of the Sorento’s safety features in real-world situations.
Standard Safety Features
The 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid comes standard with a wide array of safety features, including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians ahead and provides warnings or automatic braking to mitigate or prevent accidents.
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): LKA helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering assistance and alerts if the vehicle starts to drift.
- Driver Attention Warning (DAW): DAW monitors the driver’s alertness and provides warnings if it detects signs of fatigue or inattentiveness.
- Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW) with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW): These features use sensors to detect vehicles in blind spots and alert the driver of potential collisions when reversing.
- Rearview Monitor: This standard feature provides a rearward view on the infotainment screen, aiding in maneuvering and parking.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC helps maintain control of the vehicle during slippery conditions or sudden maneuvers by applying brakes to individual wheels as needed.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): TPMS monitors tire pressure and alerts the driver if any tire is underinflated.
- Multiple Airbags: The Sorento features a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to protect occupants in a crash.
Optional Safety Features
In addition to the standard safety features, the 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offers several optional safety packages, including:
- Highway Driving Assist (HDA): This advanced feature combines adaptive cruise control with lane keeping assist to provide semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. HDA can help maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and keep the Sorento centered in its lane, reducing driver workload on long drives.
- Safe Exit Assist (SEA): SEA uses sensors to detect approaching vehicles or objects when opening the doors and alerts passengers to potential hazards, helping to prevent accidents when exiting the vehicle.
- Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA): PCA uses sensors to detect obstacles when parking and provides warnings or automatic braking to prevent collisions.
- Surround View Monitor (SVM): SVM provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, aiding in maneuvering and parking in tight spaces.
Real-World Examples of Safety Features
The Sorento’s safety features have proven effective in real-world situations. For example, the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection has prevented potential collisions with pedestrians crossing the street, while the Lane Keeping Assist has kept the vehicle from drifting out of its lane on winding roads. The Highway Driving Assist has been particularly helpful on long highway drives, allowing the driver to relax while the system maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and keeps the Sorento centered in its lane.
The Safe Exit Assist has alerted passengers to approaching vehicles when opening the doors, preventing potential accidents.The Sorento’s comprehensive suite of safety features provides a high level of protection for all occupants. These features have been designed to enhance the driving experience by reducing driver workload and mitigating potential hazards, making the 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid a safe and reliable vehicle for families and individuals alike.
Highway Driving Assist
The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s Highway Driving Assist (HDA) system is a suite of advanced driver-assistance features designed to enhance safety and comfort during highway driving. It combines adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and other technologies to provide a semi-autonomous driving experience.This system helps to reduce driver fatigue and stress during long journeys by taking over some of the tasks typically handled by the driver.
HDA automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, keeps the vehicle centered in its lane, and can even assist with lane changes.
HDA Features and Benefits
The Sorento’s HDA system offers a range of features that contribute to a more comfortable and safe driving experience:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): HDA uses sensors to monitor the distance between your vehicle and the car in front. It automatically adjusts the Sorento’s speed to maintain a safe following distance, even in stop-and-go traffic. This feature helps to prevent rear-end collisions and reduce driver stress.
- Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): HDA uses cameras and sensors to detect lane markings. If the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane, LKA gently steers the Sorento back into its lane, helping to prevent unintentional lane changes. This feature enhances safety by reducing the risk of accidents caused by driver inattention.
- Lane Following Assist (LFA): This feature enhances LKA by using cameras to detect and follow lane markings. It can assist with lane changes by monitoring the driver’s turn signal and then guiding the vehicle smoothly into the adjacent lane. This feature can simplify lane changes on highways, making the driving experience more relaxed and less stressful.
- Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC): This feature allows the HDA system to use navigation data to anticipate upcoming curves, intersections, and speed limits. It adjusts the Sorento’s speed accordingly, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride. This feature enhances safety by allowing the vehicle to adapt to changing road conditions in advance.
Comparison to Other Manufacturers
The Sorento’s HDA system is comparable to similar technologies offered by other manufacturers, such as Ford’s Co-Pilot360 Assist, Honda’s Sensing, and Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0. These systems all offer a combination of adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and other features designed to enhance driver safety and comfort.While there are differences in the specific features and functionalities offered by each manufacturer, the overall objective of these systems remains the same: to provide drivers with assistance and support, ultimately making driving safer and more enjoyable.
Technology and Features: 2023 Kia Sorento Plug In Hybrid Yearlong Review Update 4 Safety Features Highway Driving Assist
The 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is not just about fuel efficiency; it’s about a sophisticated driving experience enhanced by cutting-edge technology and thoughtful design. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a blend of modern aesthetics and user-friendly features.
Interior and Exterior Design
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid boasts a spacious and well-appointed interior, with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. The exterior design is equally impressive, showcasing a bold and modern aesthetic that blends seamlessly with the car’s overall functionality.The cabin features a driver-centric layout, with a high-resolution digital instrument cluster that provides clear and concise information. The center console is dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system, which is both intuitive and visually appealing.
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The exterior design incorporates Kia’s signature “Tiger Nose” grille, which gives the Sorento a distinctive and assertive presence on the road. The sculpted lines and sharp angles further enhance the car’s athletic and modern appeal.
Infotainment System
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid comes equipped with Kia’s latest infotainment system, which is packed with features and connectivity options. The system’s user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, making it simple to access various functions.The infotainment system includes:
- A large touchscreen display that provides a clear and vibrant visual experience.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity.
- Navigation with real-time traffic updates and points of interest.
- A premium sound system that delivers a rich and immersive audio experience.
- A suite of driver-assistance features that enhance safety and convenience.
The infotainment system’s responsiveness and intuitive design make it a pleasure to use, whether you’re listening to music, navigating to a destination, or making a phone call.
Unique Features
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid stands out from its competitors with a range of unique features, including:
- A powerful and efficient plug-in hybrid powertrain: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor, providing impressive fuel economy and a smooth and responsive driving experience.
- A spacious and versatile interior: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families and adventurers alike.
- Advanced driver-assistance features: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring, enhancing safety and convenience.
- A sleek and modern exterior design: The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid features a bold and modern design that sets it apart from the competition.
These unique features combine to create a compelling driving experience that is both practical and enjoyable.
Practicality and Versatility
The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offers a compelling blend of practicality and versatility, making it a suitable option for a wide range of lifestyles. Its spacious interior, adaptable cargo area, and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain contribute to its overall appeal.The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s practicality stems from its spacious cabin and generous cargo space. With three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers, making it ideal for families or those who frequently transport multiple passengers.
The cargo area behind the third row offers a decent amount of space for luggage or other cargo, while folding down the second and third rows significantly increases cargo capacity.
Cargo Space and Seating Capacity, 2023 kia sorento plug in hybrid yearlong review update 4 safety features highway driving assist
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s cargo space is impressive, especially when considering its three-row configuration. With all seats in place, it offers a respectable amount of cargo space for everyday needs. Folding down the third row expands the cargo area significantly, making it suitable for larger items like luggage or camping gear. Folding down both the second and third rows creates a cavernous cargo space, ideal for hauling bulky items.
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s seating capacity is another key aspect of its practicality. The three rows of seats can accommodate up to seven passengers, providing ample space for families or groups. The second-row seats are comfortable and offer good legroom, while the third-row seats are best suited for shorter passengers or occasional use.
Hybrid Powertrain Impact on Practicality
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s hybrid powertrain adds a layer of practicality by offering both fuel efficiency and electric-only driving range. Its electric-only range is sufficient for short commutes and errands, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. However, the electric-only range is limited, and the vehicle relies on its gasoline engine for longer trips. Charging the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s battery is a relatively straightforward process.
It can be charged using a standard household outlet, although a dedicated Level 2 charger will significantly reduce charging times. The vehicle’s charging infrastructure compatibility makes it convenient for charging at home or at public charging stations.
Versatility Compared to Other Vehicles in its Segment
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s versatility is comparable to other vehicles in its segment, such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the Ford Explorer Hybrid. These vehicles also offer three-row seating, ample cargo space, and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrains. However, the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid stands out with its longer electric-only range, which provides a more significant advantage in terms of fuel savings and reduced emissions for everyday driving.
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s versatility is further enhanced by its advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, and a comfortable and well-appointed interior. These features contribute to a more enjoyable and convenient driving experience.
Overall Value and Ownership Costs
The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offers a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and technology. However, to truly assess its value, we need to consider its price point, long-term ownership costs, and how it stacks up against the competition. The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s pricing positions it as a premium offering within the mid-size SUV segment. While it’s not the cheapest option, its features, technology, and fuel efficiency make it a strong contender.
Comparison to Competitors
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s price point puts it in the same ballpark as other plug-in hybrid SUVs like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the Ford Explorer PHEV. However, the Sorento stands out with its generous standard features, including a larger touchscreen, a more comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, and a more spacious interior.
Long-Term Ownership Costs
Fuel Efficiency
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s impressive fuel economy is a significant factor in its long-term ownership costs. It achieves an EPA-estimated 79 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) in combined city and highway driving. This means you can significantly reduce your fuel expenses, especially if you regularly charge the battery.
Maintenance
The Sorento Plug-in Hybrid’s maintenance costs are generally in line with other mid-size SUVs. However, it’s important to note that the hybrid system requires specialized maintenance, which could potentially increase costs over time. It’s advisable to consult with a Kia dealership for specific maintenance recommendations and pricing.
Depreciation
Like most vehicles, the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid will experience depreciation over time. However, its strong reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and advanced features could help mitigate depreciation compared to some other vehicles.
Overall Value Proposition
The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid offers a strong value proposition for buyers seeking a practical, efficient, and well-equipped mid-size SUV. Its impressive fuel economy, spacious interior, and advanced technology features make it a compelling choice. While its price point may be higher than some competitors, its long-term ownership costs, particularly in terms of fuel efficiency, could offset this initial investment.
The 2023 Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid stands as a testament to the evolution of hybrid technology. With its advanced safety features, intuitive driving assistance, and a commitment to fuel efficiency, it offers a compelling proposition for drivers seeking a well-rounded and reliable SUV. This review highlights the strengths of this vehicle, demonstrating how it excels in various driving conditions and delivers a driving experience that prioritizes both comfort and safety.
Whether you’re commuting daily or embarking on a long road trip, the Sorento Plug-in Hybrid proves itself as a capable and enjoyable companion on the road.