Kia Sorento Expands Hybrid & PHEV Lineup for 2026

The Kia Sorento, one of Australia’s most versatile and popular SUVs, is set to offer more hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants later this year. After years of limited supply and long waiting lists, Kia Australia is gearing up to bring more electrified Sorento models to local buyers, thanks to incoming emissions regulations.

More Hybrid & PHEV Models Coming to Sorento

Kia Australia’s general manager for product planning, Roland Rivero, recently confirmed that hybrid powertrains will soon be available across more trim levels, rather than being limited to the GT-Line.

“All we can definitely comment on at the moment is… in Sorento and Carnival, [the hybrids] are strictly GT-Line variants. You’d expect the variants to follow will sit below GT-Line – there’ll be S and Sport and whatnot, and they’ll be positioned accordingly,” Mr. Rivero said.

This means that more affordable hybrid and PHEV Sorento models are on the horizon, making fuel-efficient driving more accessible to Australian families.

What Will the New Hybrid Sorento Models Cost?

Currently, the Sorento GT-Line HEV costs around $5000 more than its petrol or diesel equivalent. If this pricing trend continues, we can expect:

✔ Sorento S HEV (FWD) – Approx. $55,000✔ Sorento S HEV (AWD) – Approx. $58,000✔ Sorento PHEV (Base Trim) – Under $70,000

With more hybrid options at different price points, Kia is set to compete even more aggressively with hybrid rivals like the Toyota Kluger, Hyundai Santa Fe, and GWM Tank 500.

Improved Supply to Meet Demand

Previously, hybrid and PHEV Sorento models were extremely limited, with only 20 HEVs and 10 PHEVs available per month. This led to 12-18 month waiting lists, forcing Kia Australia to pause sales on electrified Sorento models in late 2022.

The New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES), which takes effect in July 2025, is expected to boost Kia’s ability to secure more hybrid, PHEV, and electric vehicles for the Australian market.

With this, Kia Australia is aiming for a much larger allocation of Sorento HEV and PHEV models – allowing more buyers to finally get their hands on these fuel-efficient SUVs.

Sorento HEV & PHEV Powertrains Explained

The Sorento HEV and PHEV share a 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor and battery, but there are some key differences:

✔ Sorento HEV – 169kW/350Nm, 1.49kWh battery, 5.4-5.7L/100km fuel economy✔ Sorento PHEV – 195kW/350Nm, 14kWh battery, 1.6L/100km fuel economy with up to 68km EV range

These hybrid models provide significant fuel savings compared to traditional petrol and diesel SUVs, making them a smarter, more sustainable choice for families.

When Will the New Sorento HEV & PHEV Arrive?

The new hybrid and PHEV models are expected to be part of the 2026 model year (MY26) Sorento lineup, with an official announcement in Q2 2025 and showroom arrivals in August-September 2025.

If you’re looking to secure a Sorento HEV or PHEV, now is the time to register your interest before demand skyrockets again!

Test Drive the Kia Sorento at Tynan Kia Sutherland

Excited for the new Sorento Hybrid and PHEV models? Whether you’re interested in the current GT-Line HEV/PHEV or waiting for the upcoming S and Sport trims, Tynan Kia Sutherland is your go-to dealership for the latest Kia models.

🚗 Visit Tynan Kia Sutherland today to test drive a Sorento Hybrid or PHEV and experience the future of fuel-efficient SUVs!

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: CarExpert.com.au