Frankfurt Auto Show: Kia Sorento Diesel Hybrid Concept

Among the goodies displayed by Kia at the Frankfurt Auto Show, there's a new model that quickly caught our attention. The diesel-hybrid Sorento is an upgraded model that features new powertrain technologies that will be used by the South Korean manufacturer in many of its future models.

According to kia-world.net, the diesel hybrid comprises a 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine that is already available on the Soul, Venga and the facelifted cee'd. The car also features an electric motor that produces 40 horsepower, in addition to the 163 horsepower output of the diesel unit. A dual-clutch transmission comes as standard, as well as a lithium-ion polymer batter with an inverter and converter.

The aforementioned source noted that Kia made use of several lightweight materials, which obviously contribute to the performance and fuel efficiency of the car. For example, the weight of the concept is 100 kilos below the one of the 2010 Sorento crossover thanks to a number of modifications over the car's aerodynamics, lowered suspension, new tires and a rear-window spoiler.

Thanks to these enhancements, the car now releases 119 grams of CO2 per kilometer, down 30 percent when compared with the production Sorento.

Unfortunately, there are no details on when the manufacturer will start production of the Sorento diesel hybrid or the date when it will showcase the final model. However, the new Sorento will most likely be sold in several markets around the world, including the United States where demand for hybrid models and green cars keeps growing.