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Kia America totally revealed the rally-prepared Sportage X-Professional that can compete within the 2022 Rebelle Rally, marking its third consecutive 12 months 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 group that can sort out the 1,500-mile (2,414 km) problem is driver Verena Mei and navigator Tana White, who come again for an additional 12 months 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 Cast off-road merchandise, helped within the improvement of the car.
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The brand new rallycar is basically primarily based on a 2023 Sportage X-Professional which is essentially the most rugged trim of the SUV. Setting apart the flamboyant livery, the mannequin acquired 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 Cast bumper protectors will hold the Sportage secure 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 tools.
Beneath 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 via an eight-speed computerized 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.
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