What is a Hybrid Car?

Hybrid cars (HEV) are often referred as self-charging hybrid cars. They combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery to power the car. A Hybrid electric vehicle can't be plugged in to charge. Instead, the battery charges in decelerating, stopping or coasting phases.

How do Hybrid cars work?

It's simple really. Along with a petrol or diesel engine, hybrid cars (HEV) have an electric motor powered by a small but effective battery. The electric motor in a hybrid electric vehicle assists the engine for improved fuel efficiency.

What's it like to drive a Hybrid car?

A hybrid drives like a traditional combustion engine car but with a few bonuses. It’s a lot quieter for a start and you systematically benefit from the convenience of clutch-less drive with either an automatic or dual-clutch auto transmission.

What does Hybrid mean?

A hybrid electric vehicle combines two different types of power: electricity and petrol. Hybrid cars regenerate energy through the braking system to power the battery. The engine and battery tend to help each other out. They can work together or separately.

What are E-Hybrid cars?

E-Hybrid cars are plug-in hybrid vehicles. We don't use this terminology in our range of plug-in hybrid vehicles.

What is a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)?

PHEV is the abbreviation for Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle. This type of hybrid electric car runs on electricity as well as petrol or diesel. A Plug-In Hybrid is perfect for those who want to travel further in electric mode. It’s got a bigger battery than a Hybrid and can give you a 30-mile plus electric range. When that electric range is depleted, the car automatically switches to Hybrid mode. The battery can be recharged from an external outlet, which enables them to run solely on electric power for longer.

What is the meaning of PHEV?

PHEV is the abbreviation for Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle. This type of hybrid electric car runs on electricity as well as petrol or diesel. PHEVs have a large battery that can be recharged from an external outlet, which enables them to run solely on electric power for longer.

How does a Plug-In Hybrid work?

A Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) works in a similar way to a standard Hybrid – there is a petrol engine combined with an electric motor and a battery however, in a Plug-in Hybrid, the battery is much larger than in a Hybrid and it is rechargeable from an external outlet. This means the car is able to travel around 30-40 miles (depending on the model) on battery power alone – more than enough for the average daily commute – but it can also call on the petrol engine for longer trips. Like a Hybrid, the battery can be charged whilst driving, but for the full benefit, you will need to plug in. Charging PHEV cars should take less than three hours. Put this all together and you can enjoy miles of low-cost, all-electric driving while still having a petrol engine for those rare long distance trips. Perfect.

What's it like to drive a Plug-In Hybrid car?

Relaxing and rather fun, actually. When running on battery power, PHEVs are very responsive, because unlike combustion engines, electric motors produce maximum torque at any rpm. Acceleration is brisk. We expect most charging to be done at home or at work but If you want to top up on the go, there is a vast and fast-expanding number of stations accessible across the UK. When the battery level is too low to propel the car in electric-only mode, the combustion engine kicks in and works with the battery as a supporting element - just like a regular, self-charging hybrid.

What's the difference between Hybrid vs Plug-In Hybrid car?

The main difference between hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars is that plug-in hybrids have a larger batteries than hybrids and that this battery is rechargeable from an external outlet. This enables plug-in hybrid cars to run on electric power alone for much longer distances than hybrids.

What's the difference between MHEV vs PHEV?

A Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) uses a 48V battery and electric motor to increase the efficiency of its internal combustion engine (ICE). Unlike a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), an MHEV cannot run solely on electric power, although its combustion engine shuts off during braking, coasting and stopping.

What is a Plug-In Hybrid SUV?

A Plug-In Hybrid SUV is a passenger car with increased ground clearance. It uses a hybrid system, which battery is rechargeable from an external source. Our Plug-In Hybrid SUV range includes popular models like Niro PHEV and Sportage PHEV.

7 Seater Sorento Plug-In Hybrid

Efficiency, economy & flexibility

from £599
per month

7.9% APR
Representative

37 Months
Duration

£9,139
Customer Deposit or Part Exchange

£500
Brand Deposit Contrib.

£9,639
Total Deposit

£51,655
On the Road Price

£42,016
Amount of Credit

£28,817
Optional Final Payment

£59,520
Total Payable by Customer

6,000
Annual Mileage

9ppm
Excess Mileage (incl. VAT)

4.06%
Interest Rate (fixed)

Sorento Offer

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Kia Sorento 7 Seater Plug-In Hybrid. Order today at Drayton Motors

Reduced CO2 emissions & overall running costs

Zero-emission driving whenever you need to. Ecological and economical, in the city and beyond: The combined petrol and electric capabilities of the advanced plug-in hybrid system give you the flexibility to drive longer distances, all while reducing CO2 emissions and your overall running costs. Regenerative braking technology even recharges your battery while coasting or braking, maximising efficiency and driving range.

Being designed as an ideal family car, the Sorento also benefits from a generous number of safety systems. Further emphasising the Sorento’s safety credentials, the entire line-up has been awarded the coveted five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

Offer expires on:

1st Jul 2026

Sorento PHEV '3' Plug-In Hybrid

From £51,655
- 1.6 Turbocharged Petrol Plug-In Hybrid
- 19" Alloy Wheels
- Panoramic Sunroof with Tilting & Sliding Function with Automatic Electric Roll Blinds
- Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
- Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA) with Rear-Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- 10.25" Touchscreen Satellite Navigation featuring Kia Connect
- Wireless Mobile Phone Charger
- 8-way Power Adjustable Front Seats
- Heated Seats (Front and Outer Rear)
- Engine Start/Stop Button with Smart Entry System
- Smart Power Tailgate

Sorento Plug-In Hybrid '3' 1.6 Turbocharged Petrol Automatic All Wheel Drive

Representative Finance Example:
Duration	37 Months
36 Monthly Payments	£599
Customer Deposit or Part Exchange	£9,139
Brand Deposit Contribution	£500
Total Deposit	£9,639
On the Road Price	£51,655
Amount of Credit	£42,016
Optional Final Payment	£28,817
Total Payable	£60,020
Total Payable by Customer	£59,520
Interest Rate (fixed)	4.06%
Representative	7.9% APR
Annual Mileage	6,000
Excess Mileage	9ppm (incl. VAT)

Finance ID: 490

Don't forget you can Part-Exchange your current car which could reduce your deposit or monthly re-payment. Contact us today for your personalised Kia Sorento 7 Seater Plug-In Hybrid quote and our free part exchange valuation.
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Our Electric package is your one-stop solution for EV life. Buy any new Electric or Plug-in Hybrid Kia from Drayton Motors and benefit from a home charger including installation for just £799.

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Powerful on all fronts
The front end of the all-new Sorento Plug-in Hybrid shows off its commanding, muscular presence with a striking structured front grille, accentuated with a chrome and gloss black surround, a body-coloured sporty bumper with a wing-shaped air-intake grille, and stylish silver front skid plate. While the new light source technology dual LED projection headlamps, LED daytime running lights and LED fog lamps deliver dynamic illumination to match.
Luxurious space, style and comfort
One of the very few Plug-in Hybrid vehicles to offer up to 7 seats, the premium interior is big on space and style. It has been designed to elevate every moment of driving: From the ambient lighting, to upscale materials and refined finishes. Plus endless comforts like a USB charging port for every passenger. Along with its sleek ergonomics and extra-quiet cabin credentials, you’ll see and feel its instant appeal.
Commanding, modern looks.
From the rear view too, the all-new Sorento Plug-in Hybrid boasts striking design hallmarks that aren’t afraid to leave a strong lasting impression. The vertical LED tail lamps, skid plate with sporty, eye-catching garnish on the rear, slick roof spoiler with a gloss finish and integrated rear wiper, and eco hybrid emblem are just some of the details that make a powerful overall statement.
Driving Dynamics
Dynamic Plug-in hybrid driving
Look forward to a low-emission yet powerful ride. Eco-efficiency, impressive power - and no end of driving pleasure. With the all-new Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid you can have it all. Thanks to the engaging performance credentials of the T-GDi engine, coupled with an electric motor powered by a high-voltage 13.8 kWh battery. And the effortless enjoyment that comes with such innovations as the automatic transmission control with a shift-by-wire rotary dial gear selector.
All-Wheel Drive
Take charge of any terrain. Ideal for any adventure beyond the city, the all-wheel drive technology automatically distributes torque and traction to each wheel, for more grip and precision, wherever difficult the driving surfaces and conditions. Terrain Mode Select (TMS) also lets you adapt your drive at the touch of a button, with a host of Drive Modes (Eco, Sport, Smart) and Terrain Modes (Snow, Mud, Sand) to suit your specific journey.
Experience sportiness
Push your exhilaration and enjoyment to the next level. Prepare to be enthralled on the road - with a more sporty driving experience thanks to the power with poise and control of the 261 PS 1.6 T-GDi Plug-In Hybrid engine. Coupled with the engaging enjoyment of the fast-shifting automatic transmission. And paddle shifters for extra-quick, extra-smooth gear changes without even taking your hands off the steering wheel.
What is a Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)?

A Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) is perfect for those who want to travel further in electric mode. It’s got a bigger battery than a Self-Charging Hybrid, and can give you a 30 mile electric range. When that electric range is depleted, the car automatically switches to Self-Charging Hybrid mode.
What are the benefits of a plug-in hybrid?

There are plenty of benefits to owning a plug-in hybrid car
PEACE OF MIND
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Safety
Safety is our highest priority, that's why all Kia models are equipped with safety technologies.

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Kia Care
Kia Care service plan package, designed to give you great value and keep your vehicle in top condition.

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Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) Terms & Conditions
£500 towards your PCP Finance Deposit Contribution on Sorento. Offer available between 01/04/2026 to 30/06/2026. Retail Sales only. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle. Kia reserves the right to amend or withdraw offers at any time without prior notice. Finance T&Cs apply. Subject to status. 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Kia Finance RH2 9AQ. 7 year / 100,000 mile manufacturer’s warranty.
At the end of the agreement there are 3 options: (i) part exchange the vehicle, (ii) pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (iii) return the vehicle. Further charges may be made subject to the condition or mileage of the vehicle.