2026 Kia Sorento PHEV : Plug-In Hybrid Technology That Fits Medicine Hat to Calgary Routines

Southeast Alberta families manage two kinds of driving: short local trips around Medicine Hat and longer highway runs to Calgary for work, shopping, or appointments. The 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV handles both with its plug-in hybrid system that switches between all-electric and gasoline-hybrid modes.

This three-row SUV delivers 55 km of electric-only range for daily errands without using fuel, then relies on its efficient hybrid system for the 150 km drive to Calgary. The result is lower operating costs around town and highway confidence for longer distances, all in a vehicle that seats six and carries family gear.

At a Glance: 2026 Sorento PHEV Key Specifications

Electric Range Covers Daily Medicine Hat Driving

The Sorento PHEV travels up to 55 km on battery power alone. This range handles most daily activities in Medicine Hat—school drop-offs, grocery runs to Save-On-Foods on Dunmore Road, trips to the Medicine Hat Mall, or visits to Kin Coulee Park. Start each day with a full charge at home using a 240V outlet, and your local driving costs nothing in fuel.

The lithium-ion polymer battery charges in 3.8 hours with Level 2 charging equipment. Plug in overnight and wake up ready for a full day of electric driving. For families with regular routines, this means operating on electricity most days while keeping the gasoline engine ready for longer trips.

Hybrid Mode Provides Calgary Highway Confidence

The Trans-Canada Highway to Calgary covers approximately 150 km each way. The Sorento PHEV switches to hybrid mode once the battery depletes, using its 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine alongside the electric motor. This system delivers 268 hp combined—enough for confident highway passing and merging.

In hybrid mode, the vehicle achieves 6.9 L/100 km fuel consumption. The 47-litre fuel tank provides adequate range for Calgary trips and back, while regenerative braking helps recharge the battery during city driving or highway deceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery smoothly between electric and gasoline modes.

Performance and Capability

The Sorento PHEV's all-wheel drive system comes standard on all trims, distributing power to maintain traction on Alberta roads during winter conditions or unpaved paths to campgrounds and recreational areas. The combined 270 lb-ft of torque provides strong acceleration from stops and confident highway cruising.

Towing capacity ranges from 749 to 907 kg (1,650 to 2,000 lbs) depending on configuration, allowing the Sorento PHEV to tow small trailers, utility trailers, or light recreational equipment. The trailer stability assist system monitors towing situations and applies braking to individual wheels if it detects trailer sway.

Key Performance Highlights:

• 1.6-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with permanent magnet synchronous electric motor
• 268 hp combined output for highway passing confidence
• Standard all-wheel drive for year-round traction
• Towing capacity up to 907 kg (2,000 lbs)

Six-Passenger Seating and Cargo Space

The Sorento PHEV seats six passengers across three rows. Second-row captain's chairs provide individual seating with easy access to the third row. Heated front seats come standard, with available heated second-row seats on higher trims. The driver's seat includes power adjustment with lumbar support.

Cargo capacity adjusts to your needs:

• 357 litres behind the third row for everyday items like backpacks and groceries
• 1,090-1,274 litres behind the second row when the third row folds flat, accommodating hockey bags, camping gear, or larger shopping loads
• 2,139 litres behind the first row with both rear rows folded, providing space for furniture, home improvement materials, or full camping setups

The 50:50 split-folding second and third rows fold remotely from the cargo area, allowing you to adjust seating configurations without entering the vehicle. Second-row seats also slide and recline for passenger comfort during highway trips.

Technology and Convenience Features

The Sorento PHEV includes a 12.3-inch multimedia interface (EX and above) with integrated navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system connects through Kia Connect for over-the-air software updates that add features and improvements without dealership visits.

The available Digital Key allows you to lock, unlock, and start the Sorento PHEV using your smartphone, eliminating the need to carry a traditional key fob. The smart power liftgate opens automatically when you stand behind the vehicle for three seconds with the smart key, and can close and lock by itself when you walk away.

Additional technology includes:

• Wireless phone charging on centre console
• Bose premium audio system (SX trim)
• 12.3" LCD/TFT Supervision instrument cluster showing electric range, fuel economy, and power flow
• Full display digital rearview mirror with panoramic view
• 110V power inverter for charging laptops or power tools

Safety Systems Across All Trims

Standard safety technology includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist 2, and Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go capability. These systems monitor the road, help maintain lane position, and adjust speed to match traffic flow on highways.

Higher trims add:

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2 with junction crossing detection
• Highway Drive Assist 2 for hands-on lane centring and adaptive cruise on major highways
• Surround View Monitor showing 360-degree views around the vehicle
• Blind View Monitor displaying rear quarter views in the instrument cluster
• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist to help prevent low-speed backing collisions

All Sorento PHEV models include nine airbags, electronic stability control, and trailer stability assist as standard equipment.

Trim Comparison: LX, EX, and SX

The LX trim provides all essential plug-in hybrid features with cloth seating and standard safety systems. The EX adds synthetic leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, navigation, and advanced driver assistance features. The SX offers premium leather seats with cooling, Bose audio, and additional comfort features like integrated rear door sunshades.

Which Sorento PHEV Trim Fits Your Needs?

Consider the LX if you want core plug-in hybrid capability with reliable standard features at the lowest price point. This trim delivers the same electric range and hybrid efficiency as higher models.

Choose the EX if you want upgraded materials, navigation, and enhanced safety systems like Highway Drive Assist 2 and Surround View Monitor. The panoramic sunroof and Digital Key add convenience for family use.

Select the SX if you prioritize comfort and premium features for longer highway trips. Air-cooled front seats, heated rear seats, Bose audio, and leather upholstery make the Calgary run more comfortable for all passengers.

Experience the Sorento PHEV at Straightline Kia Medicine Hat

The 2026 Sorento PHEV balances electric efficiency for local Medicine Hat driving with hybrid capability for Alberta highway travel. Book your test drive today at our Medicine Hat dealership to experience how plug-in hybrid technology fits your family's routine.

To learn more about the 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV, visit Kia.ca