Teammates Verena Mei (driver) and Tana White (navigator) return this year for redemption in the X-Cross class after placing second in the Sorento PHEV last year.
To help further the success of the team out on the trail, Kia partnered with Theresa Contreras and Sara Morosan, the powerhouse-sister team and owners of LGE-CTS Motorsports and Baja Forged off-road products, to prime the 2023 Sportage X-Pro for the rally.
Wearing a wrap inspired by Kia's new slogan, "Movement that Inspires," the Sportage dons custom Baja Forged front- and rear bumpers complete with tow points and a custom roof rack. Skidplates in the front, rear and underbody will help protect the Sportage's underbelly, while 17-inch Rhino wheels are wrapped in BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K02 tires.
Kia Sportage X-Pro rally car
This treatment enhances the already capable Sportage X-Pro, which is powered by a 187-hp 2.5-liter I-4 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The X-Pro comes standard with an Active AWD system and multi-terrain drive modes with Normal, Sport, Smart, and Snow.
In 2021, two 2022 Sorento PHEVs earned podium spots in the X-Cross class with second- and third place finishes. The 2022 Rebelle Rally will take place in Nevada between October 6 and 15.
Source: Kia America
