The India-spec Sorento will be offered with strong-hybrid and diesel powertrains, with the hybrid version getting all-wheel drive (AWD). It will also mark Kia’s entry into the strong-hybrid SUV segment in India.
Kia Sorento to become flagship SUV
The Sorento will become Kia India’s new flagship ICE-powered SUV when it goes on sale.
The three-row SUV is positioned above the Seltos and is aimed at buyers looking for a more premium and spacious vehicle. It will compete with models such as the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, Toyota Fortuner, MG Majestor and Jeep Meridian.
The launch also marks an important expansion of Kia’s SUV portfolio in India, with the company moving further into the premium end of the market.
Hybrid and diesel engine options
The Sorento will be available with two powertrain options in India.
The strong-hybrid version combines a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor, producing around 238 hp and 380 Nm. The diesel version uses a 2.2-litre engine producing around 202 hp and 441 Nm.
Both versions are expected to be offered with automatic transmissions.
The hybrid powertrain is particularly significant for Kia as it introduces the company’s first strong-hybrid SUV in India.
Hybrid model gets AWD
One of the key highlights of the India-spec Sorento is the availability of all-wheel drive with the hybrid powertrain.
Kia has confirmed AWD for the hybrid version, giving the SUV an advantage for buyers looking for additional traction and capability.
The combination of a three-row cabin, hybrid technology and AWD makes the Sorento a significant addition to Kia’s Indian portfolio.
Premium three-row cabin
The Sorento will be offered as a spacious three-row SUV, with both six-seat and seven-seat configurations expected for the Indian market.
The cabin features a connected display setup, with dual screens expected to measure 12.3 inches each. Other features include ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless smartphone connectivity and a powered tailgate.
The SUV will also offer technology aimed at improving convenience and safety.
ADAS and safety features
The Sorento is expected to come with a comprehensive safety package, including advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Other reported features include a 360-degree camera and additional electronic safety and driver-assistance systems.
These features are intended to position the Sorento as a premium family SUV rather than simply a larger alternative to Kia’s existing models.
Kia begins local production
Kia has already started production of the India-spec Sorento at its Anantapur manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh.
Local production is expected to help Kia position the SUV more competitively in the Indian market compared with a fully imported model.
The company has also opened bookings ahead of the official launch.
Expected price and competition
Kia has not yet announced the final price of the Sorento.
Industry estimates have placed the SUV in the ₹30 lakh to ₹40 lakh-plus ex-showroom range, depending on the variant and positioning.
The final pricing will be important because the Sorento will enter a competitive premium SUV market that includes established models such as the Fortuner, Kodiaq and Meridian.
More than a new SUV for Kia
The Sorento’s arrival could represent a larger shift in Kia’s strategy for India.
The company has already established itself in the mass-premium SUV space with models such as the Seltos and Sonet. With the Sorento, Kia is moving further towards premium three-row SUVs while introducing hybrid technology to its Indian portfolio.
The model could also help Kia test demand for electrified premium SUVs before expanding its hybrid line-up further.
India-spec model gets new technology
Kia has also confirmed that the India-spec Sorento will feature its AI assistant technology, making it an important technology showcase for the brand.
The SUV combines this with premium cabin equipment, ADAS and connected features to target buyers seeking technology alongside space and performance.
The focus on technology is expected to be one of the key selling points when the SUV reaches showrooms.
Launch date confirmed
The Kia Sorento will officially launch in India on September 4, 2026.
With production already underway and bookings open, the company appears prepared for a quick market rollout following the launch.
The final variant-wise pricing, specifications and availability details will be revealed around the launch.
Conclusion
New Delhi: Kia will launch the Sorento in India on September 4, introducing its new flagship three-row SUV with hybrid and diesel powertrains. The hybrid version will be offered with AWD, while the model will also bring premium features and ADAS technology to the segment.
The Sorento will be Kia’s first strong-hybrid SUV in India and is being locally produced at the company’s Anantapur facility. With its premium positioning, three-row layout and combination of hybrid and diesel options, the SUV is expected to compete with several established models in India’s premium SUV market.