Kia America absolutely revealed the rally-prepared Sportage X-Professional that may compete within the 2022 Rebelle Rally, marking its third consecutive yr of taking part within the occasion. The SUV supported by LGE-CTS Motorsports will compete within the X-Cross class of the all-female rally held on the Nevada and California deserts.

The workforce that may sort out the 1,500-mile (2,414 km) problem is driver Verena Mei and navigator Tana White, who come again for one more yr with Kia after securing second place in 2021 with a equally modified Sorento PHEV. Theressa Contreras and Sara Morosan, proprietor of the LGE-CTS Motorsports and Baja Solid off-road merchandise, helped within the improvement of the car.

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The brand new rallycar is essentially based mostly on a 2023 Sportage X-Professional which is probably the most rugged trim of the SUV. Setting apart the flamboyant livery, the mannequin obtained some off-road-focused upgrades, making it extra appropriate for tough terrains. The 17-inch Rhino wheels are shod in grippy BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K02 tires. The entrance and rear skid plates mixed with underbody safety and Baja Solid bumper protectors will maintain the Sportage protected from rocks and particles, whereas the tow factors on each ends will make it simpler to get out of adverse conditions. Lastly, a customized roof rack is added for carrying the required gear.

Underneath the bonnet lies the inventory 2.5-liter Smartstream GDI four-cylinder engine producing 187 hp (140 kW / 190 PS). Energy is transmitted to all 4 wheels by an eight-speed automated and the Lively AWD system that options multi-terrain drive modes.

The 2022 Rebelle Rally will happen in Nevada between October 6 and 15. That is Kia’s third time within the occasion, with the automaker having completed second and third in 2021 with a Sorento PHEV and second in 2020 with a Telluride.