The Kia Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi (230 Hp) HEV Automatic, produced from November 2021 to April 2024, represents a significant step in Kia’s expansion of hybrid technology within its popular Sportage SUV lineup. This variant, part of the fifth-generation Sportage (NQ5), was positioned as a mid-range offering, bridging the gap between the base gasoline models and the more powerful, fully-loaded trims. It aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and modern features appealing to a broad customer base in both North American and global markets. The Sportage V series marked a substantial redesign for the model, emphasizing a bolder exterior design and a more technologically advanced interior.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage V |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 T-GDi (230 Hp) HEV Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2021 |
| End of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 146.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.4 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.49 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 270 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Battery weight | 37 kg (81.57 lbs.) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| Electric motor | 1 |
| Electric motor power | 60 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 264 Nm (194.72 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 230 Hp |
| System torque | 350 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4500 rpm) |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 112.6 Hp/l |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4FT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.1 l (8.56 US qt | 7.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1574 kg (3470.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2175 kg (4795.05 lbs.) |
| Max load | 601 kg (1324.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 587 l (20.73 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1776 l (62.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4515 mm (177.76 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Height | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm (105.51 in.) |
| Front overhang | 905 mm (35.63 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 930 mm (36.61 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/55 R18; 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi HEV lies the G4FT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver 180 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 184 lb-ft of torque. The “T-GDi” designation signifies Kia’s Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection technology. The hybrid system incorporates a 60 horsepower electric motor powered by a 1.49 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack located under the rear seats. This configuration allows for electric-only driving at lower speeds and assists the gasoline engine during acceleration, resulting in a combined system output of 230 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The power is delivered through a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine management system seamlessly blends the power from both sources, optimizing for efficiency and performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T-GDi HEV Automatic Sportage offers a refined driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, contributing to brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.7 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the hybrid powertrain delivers adequate power for everyday driving and highway merging. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth gear changes and responsive performance. The hybrid system prioritizes fuel efficiency, and in typical driving conditions, the Sportage can achieve impressive gas mileage. Compared to the base gasoline engines, the hybrid offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and responsiveness. Compared to higher-output gasoline engines, it offers a more balanced approach, prioritizing efficiency over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T-GDi HEV Automatic trim typically included a generous array of standard features. These commonly included automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as a larger touchscreen, premium audio systems, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and heated/ventilated front seats. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were modern and driver-focused, with a digital instrument cluster available on select trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage V utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The suspension consists of independent McPherson struts at the front and an independent multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and competent handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control enhances safety. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to minimize body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi HEV Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior. The hybrid powertrain was seen as a significant improvement over the base gasoline engines, offering a compelling blend of performance and economy. Compared to competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid, the Sportage offered a competitive price point and a longer warranty. Some critics noted that the interior materials weren’t quite as premium as those found in some rivals, but overall, the Sportage HEV was considered a strong contender in the compact SUV segment.
Legacy
The Kia Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi HEV Automatic represents a pivotal moment in Kia’s commitment to electrification. The G4FT engine and hybrid powertrain have proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. In the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, reflecting their fuel efficiency and modern features. The Sportage V’s success has paved the way for Kia to expand its hybrid and electric vehicle offerings, solidifying its position as a major player in the automotive industry. The combination of a turbocharged engine, electric motor assistance, and a well-engineered automatic transmission continues to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and efficient SUV.
