Kia Philippines provided an experiential preview of the 2025 Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid. It was an introduction to the fourth-generation Sorento and a chance to experience its capabilities firsthand.

The event kicked off with an off-road track test. Next was an acceleration and braking session, and finally, the moose test. Kia representatives emphasized safety and provided an overview of the Sorento’s hybrid system and advanced features.

We were divided into small groups, each accompanied by experienced instructors. First was the off-road track. We navigated through a course designed to showcase the Sorento’s smart all-wheel-drive system and hybrid powertrain. The 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid engine, delivering 232 horsepower and 367 Nm of torque, showed its smooth power delivery and responsiveness.

Next was the acceleration and braking test. From a standstill, we accelerated to full throttle before executing a hard stop highlighting its six-speed Smartstream automatic transmission and the braking system’s stopping power.

Then finally, the moose test. It’s a maneuver to simulate avoiding sudden obstacles, like a moose aka kambing crossing the road. The test was conducted by a professional instructor, in this case, Louis Ramirez. Watching from the passenger seat, it was remarkable to see the Sorento’s Electrification-Vehicle Motion Control (E-VMC) in action--the system’s ability to maintain stability and minimize body roll during abrupt directional changes.

The Sorento’s interior includes cabin-featured leather upholstery, dual 12.3-inch high-definition displays, and a 12-speaker Bose sound system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — seamlessly integrated into the infotainment system. Additional highlights included power-adjustable front seats with a memory function, a panoramic sunroof and ambient LED lighting.

Kia Philippines, a subsidiary of ACMobility, officially launched the 2025 Sorento Turbo Hybrid in the Philippines on 6 February 2025.

For the first time in its 23-year global history, the iconic Sorento now boasts a hybrid powertrain, offering a perfect balance of eco-friendly driving, impressive fuel efficiency, robust all-wheel-drive (AWD) performance, and modern luxury, catering to the evolving needs of Filipino families.

“[We are] proud to support Kia’s electrification movement with the introduction of the Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid... This launch is a key step forward in promoting fuel efficiency, performance and sustainability, all reaffirming our shared commitment to a greener, electrified future,” Jaime Alfonso Zobel de Ayala, ceo of ACMobility, said.