Winter driving in Ontario demands more than just all-wheel drive and good tires. The 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV comes equipped with thoughtful features designed to handle freezing temperatures, ice buildup, and reduced visibility—many of which aren't immediately obvious when browsing the spec sheet.
From heated components that activate automatically to safety systems that adapt to winter conditions, these features work quietly in the background to keep you comfortable and safe during Newmarket's coldest months.
Heated Sideview Mirrors
The Sorento PHEV's power-adjustable sideview mirrors include integrated heating elements. When activated, these elements melt frost and ice that accumulates on the mirror glass, maintaining clear visibility during snowstorms or freezing rain.
The heating function works in conjunction with the rear window defroster, ensuring both rear visibility aids remain clear. This feature is standard across all Sorento PHEV trims, from the base LX through the top-tier SX.
Rain-Sensing Wipers with Automatic Activation
Available on EX and SX trims, the rain-sensing wiper system detects moisture on the windshield and adjusts wiper speed automatically. During mixed winter precipitation—when conditions shift rapidly between snow, sleet, and freezing rain—this system adapts without driver intervention.
The acoustic laminated windshield on all Sorento PHEV models reduces exterior noise, making it easier to hear audio alerts and conversations even when wipers are operating at high speed.
LED Fog Lights
Standard LED fog lights sit low in the front fascia, positioned to cut through heavy snow and fog more effectively than standard headlights. The low mounting angle reduces glare reflection off falling snow, improving visibility during whiteout conditions on Highway 404 or rural roads around Newmarket.
The LED technology provides instant illumination without warm-up time, unlike traditional halogen fog lights that require several seconds to reach full brightness.
Automatic Defog System
The dual-zone automatic climate control includes an automatic defog system that monitors interior humidity levels. When condensation begins forming on the windshield, the system adjusts airflow and temperature automatically to clear the glass.
This feature activates without driver input, preventing the gradual visibility loss that occurs during temperature changes—such as when entering a warm vehicle on a cold morning or when multiple passengers increase interior humidity.
Heated Steering Wheel
Available on EX and SX trims, the heated steering wheel provides direct warmth to your hands within seconds of activation. The heating element is integrated into the leather-wrapped rim, distributing heat evenly around the wheel's circumference.
Unlike heated seats that warm your core gradually, the heated steering wheel provides immediate comfort for cold hands, improving grip and reducing the temptation to drive with gloves that can reduce steering precision.
Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) Heater
The Sorento PHEV includes a positive temperature coefficient heater as standard equipment. This supplemental heating system provides cabin warmth more quickly than traditional engine-based heating, which is particularly valuable in a plug-in hybrid because the gasoline engine may not run continuously during short trips.
The PTC heater draws power from the high-voltage battery to generate heat independently, ensuring consistent cabin comfort even when operating in full-electric mode during cold-weather commutes.
Heated Second-Row Seats
Available on the SX trim, heated second-row seats extend winter comfort beyond the front cabin. The heating elements are integrated into both outboard second-row positions, providing warmth for rear passengers during longer trips.
This feature is particularly valuable for families, ensuring children and rear passengers remain comfortable without requiring the entire cabin temperature to be raised, which can improve overall heating efficiency and reduce battery drain.
At a Glance: Winter-Ready Features
|
Feature
|
Availability
|
Primary Benefit
|
|
Heated Sideview Mirrors
|
All trims
|
Melts ice/frost for clear rear visibility
|
|
Rain-Sensing Wipers
|
EX, SX
|
Automatic adjustment for mixed precipitation
|
|
LED Fog Lights
|
All trims
|
Improved visibility in snow and fog
|
|
Automatic Defog System
|
All trims
|
Prevents windshield condensation
|
|
Heated Steering Wheel
|
EX, SX
|
Immediate hand warmth and better grip
|
|
PTC Heater
|
All trims
|
Fast cabin heating in EV mode
|
|
Heated Second-Row Seats
|
SX
|
Rear passenger comfort on long trips
|
Experience the Sorento PHEV at Kia of Newmarket
The 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV combines 55 kilometres of all-electric range with winter-ready features designed for Ontario driving conditions. Visit Kia of Newmarket to explore how these features work together to improve cold-weather comfort and safety.
To learn more about the 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV, visit Kia.ca
