Kia Sorento Hybrid AWD First Drive Review – Is It a Game Changer?

• Sulman Ali


• 3 Jun 2025

We take the Kia Sorento Hybrid AWD out for a first drive experience to test its performance, handling, and advanced features both in city driving and on the Lahore Ring Road. Here’s a breakdown of how it performed.

 Launch & 0-100 Test

The car was tested with sports mode activated to check its 0-100 km/h capability, and it clocked 8.85 seconds, with acceleration feeling linear and refined. The hybrid system works quietly and seamlessly during the launch.

City Driving Experience

Top-and-go traffic is where the hybrid system really shines. Most of the power is generated by the electric motors, which saves fuel and reduces engine usage.

• Engine: 1.6L turbocharged petrol (T-GDi)
• Transmission: Hybrid system + AWD (on-demand)
• Primary drive mode: Front-wheel biased, engages AWD only when needed to improve traction

The city drive is smooth, with good torque delivery from the electric assistance. The ride is slightly firm, which helps improve handling and braking due to the car’s heavy battery pack.

Driving Modes & Ride Feel

The Sorento offers three driving modes:

• Eco – Best for mellow, fuel-efficient driving
• Smart – Learns your driving style and adjusts accordingly (best for city use)
• Sport – Aggressive throttle, gear hold, and stiff steering response

Suneel personally preferred Smart mode, calling it the best balance between responsiveness and comfort.

“Suspension is on the firmer side, understandable due to the vehicle’s weight and performance focus.”

One thing noted was a slight clunking noise over potholes and speed breakers — might be noticeable to some passengers.

Digital Cluster & Drive Info

The digital cluster provides valuable hybrid insights:

• Power distribution visualisation between wheels
• RPM meter, EV mode status, and fuel range
• 67L fuel tank
• Smart mode and drive readiness indicators
• Outside temperature and trip meters
• EV-only drive guidance with average fuel consumption (noted: 9.7 km/l at that time)

Also includes:

• Digital temperature gauge (highlighted as a welcome addition for the Pakistani climate)

Steering, Screens & Cabin Experience

• 3-spoke leather-wrapped heated steering wheel
  • Right side: ADAS controls
  • Left side: Media, voice command, and custom star button
• Dual panoramic curved screens (driver-focused setup)
• 12.3-inch infotainment screen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  • Bluetooth media & full vehicle settings

Also features a Car Wash mode to disable sensitive systems during washing, and Blind View Monitor from the 360° camera system when indicators are used.

“Despite being a big car, visibility is excellent thanks to smart design, big mirrors, and thinner A-pillars.”

Seating & Practicality

• Ventilated and heated front seats
• Excellent AC performance even with tinted windows
• Third row AC controls
• Spacious cabin with 3-row layout
  • Last row folds flat
  • 60:40 split in the second row
• Plenty of cup holders and storage compartments
• 64-colour ambient lighting
• Driver fatigue monitor
• Memory seats with two profiles
• Wireless charger that actually works well

Cabin Noise & NVH

Tested using a decibel meter:

• Cabin noise ranged between 93-96 dB under load
• Engine noise is noticeable, especially as the 1.6L engine has to work harder in a big SUV
• On the highway (Ring Road), it stayed consistent

 ADAS & Safety Features (K-Drive Wise)

Over 20+ ADAS features included:

• Auto emergency braking
• Lane keep assist (not hands-free but supportive)
• Rear cross-traffic alert & assist
• Blind spot monitoring with steering/brake intervention
• Cyclist & small vehicle recognition
• Follow-me-home lights
• Smart tailgate (opens automatically when near with key)
• Rear seat occupant alert

Ring Road Performance

• Smart Cruise Control tested with adjustable car-following distance
• Lane keeping & centring worked effectively
• Paddle shifters are functional but limited to mid-range gears
• The car felt stable and confident at high speeds

“Weight distribution and AWD traction keep body roll minimal in high-speed turns.”

 Variants & Price (Expected)

Three variants expected:

1. V6 (non-hybrid, FWD) – Approx. PKR 13,499,000
2. Hybrid FWD – Approx. PKR 14,699,000
3. Hybrid AWD (tested) – Approx. PKR 15,999,000

 Final Verdict

The Kia Sorento Hybrid AWD is a feature-packed, efficient, and practical vehicle. While the engine feels slightly strained due to its size, the hybrid support and AWD traction make it a solid choice for family use.

“The smart features, comfort, and driving aids make it a compelling option in Pakistan’s premium SUV segment.”

Let us know your thoughts and check out full details on PakWheels.com or download our app for specs, features, and comparisons!