A production version of the Kia Imagine concept is also planned for 2021.
Emilio Herrera from Kia Europe, Chief Operating Officer, discussed in detail how the automaker will tackle the strict CO2 regulations of the region. Herrera stated that the next-generation Sorento would include a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The next-gen Sorento is already in spy shots. Although the exterior styling is similar to the current crossover, the front and rear are different. The grille is narrower than the current model, and connects to smaller headlights. The interior is still not visible in photos, but we expect to see better infotainment as well as active safety tech.
The new Sorento will be available in the United States starting with the model year 2021. It is not known if the electrified models will be made available in America or if they will be included in the powertrain range after the vehicle’s launch.
Herrera claims that Kia will be releasing a production version in 2021 of its Imagine EV concept. The car has coupe-inspired crossover styling. However, don’t expect it to have the suicide doors of the show car on the road-going model. It doesn’t appear to be viable with the 21 screens on its dashboard.
Herrera says that Kia is working on a hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle. It will be available in the second half of 2020 or early 2021. Herrera also stated that all Ceed models will have a mild hybrid powertrain.