The 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV puts power decisions directly in your hands. This plug-in hybrid SUV goes beyond basic transportation by giving you precise control over how your vehicle operates, when it uses electric or gasoline power, and how it responds to different driving situations.
For Ontario drivers who want to maximize efficiency during city commutes while maintaining capability for highway travel, the Sportage PHEV delivers the control systems that make this possible. Every major driving function can be customized to match your specific needs and preferences.
Manual Power Source Selection
The Sportage PHEV allows you to manually select between EV mode, HEV mode, and AUTO mode with the touch of a button. This control puts you in charge of when and how your vehicle uses its dual power sources.
EV mode runs on electric power alone, perfect for quiet neighbourhood driving or zero-emission zones. HEV mode activates the combined gasoline and electric powertrain for maximum performance when you need it. AUTO mode automatically switches between power sources for optimal efficiency based on driving conditions.
This manual override capability means you can force electric-only operation when approaching your destination in North York, or ensure full hybrid power is available when merging onto Highway 401. The choice remains yours at all times.
Drive Mode Selection for Different Conditions
Drive Mode Select adapts the Sportage PHEV's performance characteristics to match road conditions and driving preferences. The system adjusts throttle response, steering feel, and transmission behaviour based on your selection.
Each drive mode recalibrates how the hybrid powertrain delivers power, how the suspension responds to road inputs, and how driver assistance systems operate. For Ontario's varied driving conditions, this means you can optimize the vehicle for highway cruising, city stop-and-go traffic, or challenging weather conditions.
The system works alongside the power source selection, giving you layered control over both the powertrain and overall vehicle dynamics. This dual-level control ensures the Sportage PHEV responds exactly how you expect in any driving situation.
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Control System
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Function
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Driver Benefit
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EV/HEV/AUTO Modes
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Power source selection
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Choose electric, hybrid, or automatic operation
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Drive Mode Select
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Performance tuning
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Customize throttle, steering, transmission response
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Smart Cruise Control 2
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Speed and following distance
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Hands-on highway assistance with stop/go capability
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Smart Cruise Control 2 with Stop & Go
Smart Cruise Control 2 maintains your set speed and following distance from vehicles ahead, with the ability to bring the Sportage PHEV to a complete stop and resume automatically. This system reduces driver fatigue during extended highway drives or heavy traffic conditions.
The stop-and-go functionality handles Toronto-area traffic patterns effectively, maintaining safe spacing while automatically resuming when traffic moves again. The system works with both the electric and hybrid powertrains, ensuring smooth operation regardless of which power source is active.
You control the following distance and can adjust system sensitivity based on traffic conditions. The cruise control integrates with the hybrid powertrain to maintain efficiency while providing the convenience of automated speed and distance management.
Terrain Mode for Surface Conditions
Available terrain mode helps provide improved traction and control in mud, snow, and sand conditions. This feature adjusts the AWD system, traction control, and hybrid powertrain delivery to match specific surface requirements.
For Ontario drivers who encounter winter conditions, cottage road gravel, or construction zone surfaces, terrain mode optimizes power delivery from both the electric motor and gasoline engine. The system modifies how quickly power transfers between wheels and adjusts regenerative braking to maintain control.
The terrain mode selection works independently of your power source choice, meaning you can run in EV mode with terrain optimization active, or combine hybrid power with surface-specific traction management.
Remote Vehicle Monitoring Through Kia Connect
The Kia Connect app works with the available Surround View Monitor system to send images from around your vehicle when you want to check on it remotely. This feature provides visual confirmation of your vehicle's surroundings without requiring you to be physically present.
The 360-degree camera system captures views from all angles around the Sportage PHEV and transmits them to your smartphone through the Kia Connect app. You can verify parking situations, check for obstacles, or simply confirm your vehicle's condition from anywhere with cellular coverage.
This remote monitoring capability extends your control beyond driving situations. Whether you're concerned about parking lot activity in North York or want to verify your vehicle's position before returning to it, the system provides real-time visual access through your smartphone.
Complete Control Integration
These control systems work together to give you comprehensive command over the Sportage PHEV's operation. You can simultaneously select electric-only power, adjust drive mode for traffic conditions, activate terrain mode for surface traction, and monitor your vehicle remotely through the app.
The integration means your control choices complement each other rather than conflict. Selecting EV mode doesn't disable Smart Cruise Control 2, and activating terrain mode doesn't override your power source selection. Each system operates independently while contributing to your overall driving preferences.
For drivers who appreciate having direct input over their vehicle's behaviour, the Sportage PHEV provides the tools to customize every aspect of the driving experience. From power source to remote monitoring, control remains firmly in your hands.
Experience Driver-Centric Technology at Trento Kia
Ready to take command of your driving experience? The 2026 Sportage PHEV is offered at Trento Kia in North York, where you can test every control system firsthand. Our team will walk you through the EV/HEV mode selection, demonstrate Drive Mode Select operation, and show you how the Kia Connect app integrates with the Surround View Monitor.
Visit Trento Kia in North York to explore how these advanced control systems work together, giving you the precise vehicle management that makes every drive exactly what you want it to be.
To learn more about the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV, visit Kia.ca
