The Kia Sportage L HEV is Kia’s latest hybrid SUV offering in Pakistan, combining fuel efficiency with premium comfort and smart technology. In this expert review by Suneel Sarfraz Munj, we explore the performance, features, fuel economy, and value of this new hybrid variant.
What is the Kia Sportage L HEV?
The Kia Sportage L HEV is a hybrid electric variant of Kia’s best-selling SUV in Pakistan. It features a fuel-efficient powertrain that combines a 1.6L petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering excellent fuel economy without compromising on performance or practicality.
With rising fuel costs and increasing demand for eco-friendly vehicles, the Sportage L HEV enters the Pakistani market at the perfect time. It offers a great entry point into the world of hybrid SUVs, especially for middle to upper-class families.
Exterior Design – Subtle Hybrid Identity
The Kia Sportage L HEV maintains the familiar design of the fourth-generation Sportage but introduces subtle changes to signal its hybrid identity.
Key Exterior Highlights:
- Blue-tinted hybrid badging
- Projector halogen headlamps
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Sleek rear profile with minimal styling differences
Suneel emphasizes that Kia made a smart move by keeping the hybrid styling minimal—retaining the SUV’s broad appeal while adding modern touches.
Interior Comfort and Space
The Kia Sportage L HEV offers a comfortable cabin with ample space and practical features. The hybrid system has been integrated without compromising passenger room or cargo capacity.
Interior Features:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Fabric seats with quality stitching
- Dual-zone climate control (select variants)
- Semi-digital instrument cluster with hybrid indicators
Whether you’re commuting in the city or heading out for a family trip, the Sportage L HEV provides a smooth and spacious ride.
Performance – Hybrid Power, Smooth Drive
At the heart of the Kia Sportage L HEV is its hybrid powertrain:
- Petrol Engine: 1.6L GDi
- Electric Motor: 44.2 kW
- Combined Output: 139 hp, 265 Nm torque
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
The Kia Sportage L HEV delivers a refined driving experience, especially in stop-and-go traffic where the electric motor takes the lead. Acceleration is smooth, and the switch between electric and petrol modes is seamless.
Fuel Economy – The Main Attraction
Fuel efficiency is the main reason to consider the Sportage L HEV.
Real-World Fuel Economy:
- City Driving: 17–18 km/l
- Highway: 18–20 km/l (depending on driving style)
Suneel highlights that in long-term usage, the Kia Sportage L HEV could save over PKR 1 million in fuel costs compared to a conventional petrol SUV.
This positions the Sportage L HEV as one of the best fuel-efficient SUVs in Pakistan.
Technology & Safety Features
Despite being an entry-level hybrid, the Kia Sportage L HEV doesn’t skimp on essential tech and safety.
Tech Features:
- 8-inch infotainment screen
- USB and Bluetooth connectivity
- Steering-mounted controls
- Eco/Power driving modes
Safety Features:
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill Start Assist
- ISOFIX anchors for child seats
While it lacks advanced ADAS features, it covers all the essential safety basics needed in urban Pakistani roads.
Comparison: Sportage Alpha vs. Sportage L HEV
| Feature | Sportage Alpha (Petrol) | Sportage L HEV (Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Petrol | 1.6L GDi Hybrid |
| Transmission | 6-speed Automatic | 6-speed Automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 10–11 km/l | 17–20 km/l |
| Infotainment | Basic | 8-inch Touchscreen |
| Safety | Standard | ESC + Standard Features |
| Price Range (PKR) | ~7.8 million | ~8.3 million |
From an expert perspective, the Kia Sportage L HEV offers a better long-term value proposition due to its high fuel efficiency and modern hybrid system.
Pros and Cons of Kia Sportage L HEV
Pros:
- Excellent fuel economy
- Smooth hybrid drive
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Practical and family-friendly
- Environmentally conscious choice
Cons:
- No LED lights in L variant
- Lacks premium luxury features
- Slightly higher initial cost
Is Kia Sportage L HEV Worth Buying? – Suneel’s Verdict
According to Suneel Sarfraz Munj, the Kia Sportage L HEV is one of the smartest hybrid SUV choices in Pakistan right now. Here’s his summary:
“If you’re looking for a daily-driven family SUV with excellent fuel economy and modern technology, the Kia Sportage L HEV makes perfect sense. It’s not flashy, but it’s smart, and that’s what matters most today.”
With rising fuel costs and growing concern for the environment, hybrid SUVs like the Sportage L HEV will likely become mainstream—and this model leads that charge in Pakistan.
Kia Sportage L HEV: Final Thoughts
The Kia Sportage L HEV is not just another SUV; it’s a practical step into the hybrid future. It delivers the perfect balance of affordability, efficiency, and everyday usability. Whether you’re upgrading from a sedan or replacing an older petrol SUV, the Sportage L HEV deserves your attention.
FAQs about Kia Sportage L HEV
Q1: What is the price of Sportage L HEV in Pakistan?
A: It ranges between PKR 8.2 to 8.5 million depending on dealer pricing and optional costs.
Q2: Is Kia Sportage L HEV fuel efficient?
A: Yes, it offers around 17–20 km/l, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in Pakistan.
Q3: Does the Sportage L HEV require special maintenance?
A: No, it shares most parts with the regular Sportage. Hybrid components are covered under warranty and require minimal upkeep.
Q4: Is the battery of Sportage HEV reliable?
A: Yes, Kia uses proven hybrid tech with long-term reliability and offers warranty support.
Kia Sportage L HEV :Price and Value for Money
As of mid-2025, the this car is priced at approximately PKR 8.2 to 8.5 million, depending on dealership and optional freight/insurance. While this is higher than the non-hybrid Alpha variant, the added technology and fuel efficiency balance the scales.
From an expert point of view, Suneel emphasizes total cost of ownership. Over a 5-year span, the L HEV can save over PKR 1 million in fuel costs alone, assuming an average driving pattern. When you factor in lower maintenance needs due to reduced engine load and regenerative braking, it becomes a strong financial proposition.
Kia Sportage L HEV :Pros and Cons Summary
Pros
- Excellent fuel economy
- Smooth hybrid drive experience
- Practical and spacious interior
- Proven reliability and local support
- Quiet and refined city driving
Cons
- No LED lights or high-end features in L variant
- Limited availability in initial months
- Lacks ADAS features present in global models
Kia Sportage L HEV Final Verdict – Suneel’s Take
The Kia Sportage L HEV isn’t trying to be flashy or ultra-premium – it’s designed to be practical, economical, and eco-conscious. And in all three departments, it delivers confidently.
Suneel sums it up perfectly:
“If you’ve already considered the regular Sportage or any other petrol SUV around the 8 million range, the L HEV is a no-brainer. You’ll get better mileage, smoother city driving, and you’ll feel better knowing you’re burning less fuel. For daily family use, it’s one of the smartest buys in today’s market.”
The hybrid future is here, and with models like the Kia Sportage L HEV, it’s more accessible than ever. If you want a well-rounded, fuel-efficient SUV without sacrificing comfort and practicality, this one deserves to be on top of your shortlist.
Safety Features
Safety is a growing concern for Pakistani consumers, and Kia doesn’t disappoint here.
- Airbags: Dual airbags
- Brakes: ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
- Stability Control: ESC (Electronic Stability Control)
- Hill Start Assist
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
While some advanced driver aids are missing (like lane-keep assist or blind-spot monitoring), the basics are well covered. According to Suneel, for a base hybrid variant, the safety features are more than satisfactory.
Technology and Features Comparison
Here’s a quick look at what you get in the Sportage L HEV compared to the Sportage Alpha:
| Feature | Sportage Alpha (Petrol) | Sportage L HEV |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Petrol | 1.6L GDi Hybrid |
| Fuel Economy | 10–11 km/l | 17–20 km/l |
| Transmission | 6-speed Auto | 6-speed Auto |
| Infotainment | Basic | 8-inch Touchscreen |
| Safety | Standard | Standard + ESC |
| Price | Slightly lower | Slightly higher |
Suneel believes that the minor price bump for the L HEV is justified by the long-term fuel savings and improved technology.
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