The Kia Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi (230 Hp) HEV AWD Automatic, produced from November 2021 to April 2024, represents a significant offering in the increasingly competitive compact SUV segment. This variant, part of the fifth-generation Sportage (NQ5), positioned itself as a mid-to-upper trim level, blending fuel efficiency with respectable performance and all-wheel-drive capability. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a practical, well-equipped SUV with a focus on hybrid technology. The Sportage V, launched globally, aimed to elevate Kia’s brand image and compete directly with established European and Japanese rivals in key markets including North America, Europe, and Asia.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Sportage |
| Generation | Sportage V |
| Type | 1.6 T-GDi (230 Hp) HEV AWD 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 | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.4 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 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 | 1640 kg (3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2245 kg (4949.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605 kg (1333.8 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 | ICE and electric motor drive front wheels, with on-demand AWD |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 | 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi HEV AWD 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 195 lb-ft of torque. The “T-GDi” designation signifies Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection. The engine is paired with a 60 hp electric motor integrated into the six-speed automatic transmission. This configuration creates a full hybrid system capable of operating in electric-only mode at lower speeds and providing a boost during acceleration. The 1.49 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, positioned under the rear seats, stores energy recovered through regenerative braking and powers the electric motor. The combined system output reaches 230 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1500-4500 rpm. The automatic transmission is a conventional torque-converter type, optimized for smooth operation and efficiency in a hybrid application.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 T-GDi HEV AWD Sportage offers a balanced driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the combined output of the engine and electric motor provides adequate acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 8 seconds. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although it can occasionally exhibit some hesitation during quick downshifts. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various conditions, making it suitable for inclement weather or light off-road use. Compared to the base engine options, this hybrid variant delivers noticeably stronger acceleration and a more refined driving experience. Compared to higher-output gasoline engines available in other Sportage trims, this version prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The electric motor assistance helps to fill in torque gaps at lower RPMs, resulting in a more responsive feel in everyday driving situations.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 T-GDi HEV AWD 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 suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise control, and LED headlights. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette, depending on optional packages. Available options included a larger touchscreen display, a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and a 360-degree camera system. The trim level sat comfortably in the middle of the Sportage range, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The Sportage V utilizes a front independent McPherson strut suspension and a rear independent multi-link suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The chassis is reinforced to accommodate the added weight of the hybrid components. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control (ESC) system and anti-lock braking system (ABS) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi HEV AWD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and comprehensive feature set. However, some noted that the engine could feel slightly strained under hard acceleration. Compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the Sportage offered a competitive price point and a longer warranty. Against non-hybrid Sportage trims, the HEV version commanded a premium but offered significantly improved fuel economy. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the powertrain.
Legacy
The Kia Sportage V 1.6 T-GDi HEV AWD Automatic represents a pivotal step in Kia’s transition towards electrification. The powertrain, while not without its minor quirks, has proven to be relatively reliable in real-world use. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with lower mileage and a full service history. The Sportage V’s success helped to solidify Kia’s position as a major player in the compact SUV segment and paved the way for further development of hybrid and electric vehicle technology within the brand.
