Kia Sportage S hits hybrid sweet spot

Kia has added a base hybrid version of the Sportage, aiming to undercut both Chinese rivals and Japanese hybrid nameplates in China’s electrified midsize SUV segment. The entry-level S Hybrid starts from $44,490 drive-away and is now available in “base guise,” filling a gap left by earlier Sportage HEV availability being limited. Kia notes the S overlaps with some hybrid-only Chinese alternatives such as the GWM H6 and MG HS, though those cars require further development. The S comes with key features like climate control, a reversing camera, ADAS and alloy wheels, but misses items such as a wireless phone charger and heated front seats.