Kia Sorento: Kia is gearing up to make another major move in the Indian SUV market. The company is set to unveil its new Kia Sorento on September 4, 2026. Positioned above the existing Seltos, this three-row SUV will serve as Kia’s flagship ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) SUV in India.
A key highlight is that the Sorento will mark the company’s debut of a hybrid powertrain in the country. It will also be highly advanced in terms of features. The Sorento will enter the Indian market with hybrid and diesel engine options, 7-seat capacity, AWD, and a host of premium features. Let’s take a look at the full details.
Hybrid and Diesel Options
The engine is set to be the Sorento’s standout feature. It is expected to launch in India with both hybrid and diesel options. The hybrid model will feature a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a battery pack. It will come with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the India-spec hybrid model will offer all-wheel drive (AWD).
The diesel model is expected to be powered by a 2.2-litre turbocharged engine mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Kia won’t disappoint diesel enthusiasts either.
Design
In terms of design, the SUV features a tall and imposing front profile. It sports a large grille and vertically arranged lighting elements that will give it a distinctive presence on the road.
Other exterior highlights include a squared-off body, large wheel arches, flush-style door handles, and vertical rear lamps. The design successfully blends the ruggedness of a premium SUV with modern styling cues.
Interior
The cabin will be packed with features. The Sorento will sport a dual-screen dashboard housing two 12.3-inch displays. It will also offer a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front and second-row seats, powered seat adjustments, ambient lighting, and wireless charging.
With the Kia Sorento, the company will also launch its AI Assistant technology in India. Additionally, the infotainment system will include Kia Connect and other connected-car features. In other words, the SUV is being designed not just for driving, but also to assist with daily usage through technology.
Level 2 ADAS
It is expected to feature a Level 2 ADAS suite for safety. This will include features such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Highway driving assistance will also be provided. The SUV will come equipped with a 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and various other active and passive safety features.
Price
As for the price, the starting figure could be around ₹35 lakh (ex-showroom). However, Kia will reveal the final price only at launch. In India, the Sorento will compete against SUVs like the Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota Fortuner, Jeep Meridian, MG Gloster, and Volkswagen Tayron.