Kia had been silently prepping a 3-row SUV with a hybrid powertrain for a while now
Updated on 04.09.2026 – Kia has finally launched its premium 3-row SUV, the Sorento, for the Indian market. It comes with a whole host of tech and convenience amenities, striking design, tons of passive and active safety features, all-wheel-drive configuration, multiple powertrains and some impressive connectivity features. The prices start at Rs 27.99 lakh, ex-showroom, making it a key product in a rather niche space. Let us delve deep into the specifics of what it offers.
New Kia Sorento SUV – Price
Kia has announced that the Sorento SUV starts at Rs 27.99 lakh and goes up to Rs 40.39 lakh, ex-showroom. This is a market segment where not a lot of models are available. Hence, the Korean auto giant wants to snatch some customers away from the likes of the MG Gloster and Toyota Fortuner. The variant-wise prices are given below:
| Powertrain | Seater | HTE | HTE(O) | HTK | HTK(A) | HTK(A) Black Line | HTX – AWD | HTX Black Line – AWD | HTX (A) – AWD | HTX(A) Black Line – AWD |
| Smartstream D2.2 8DCT | 7 Seater | 2,799,000 | 2,949,000 | 3,249,000 | 3,349,000 | 3,369,000 | 3,749,000 | 3,769,000 | 3,849,000 | 3,869,000 |
| 6 Seater | – | – | 3,269,000 | 3,369,000 | 3,389,000 | 3,769,000 | 3,789,000 | 3,869,000 | 3,889,000 | |
| Smartstream 1.6 Turbo GDI Hybrid 6AT | 7 Seater | 2,949,000 | 3,099,000 | 3,399,000 | 3,499,000 | 3,519,000 | 3,899,000 | 3,919,000 | 3,999,000 | 4,019,000 |
| 6 Seater | – | – | 3,419,000 | 3,519,000 | 3,539,000 | 3,919,000 | 3,939,000 | 4,019,000 | 4,039,000 |
New Kia Sorento SUV – Features and Safety
Being a Kia, we know that the product is bound to be laden with incredible new tech and convenience features. That has been Kia’s strong suite regardless of which segment it operates in. The Sorento comes with 2 interior themes – Smoky Black & Grey and Black & Olive Brown. Some of the main attractions are:
- Panoramic Curved Display – 12.3-inch HD Touchscreen Navigation Cockpit and 12.3-inch HD Display Instrument Cluster
- Windshield Head-up Display
- Advanced Digital IRVM
- Dual-pane Panoramic Sunroof
- 64-colour Ambient Mood Lighting
- Smart Power Tailgate with Anti-pinch function
- Dual Pane Panoramic Sunroof
- 360 Degree Camera & Blind View Monitor
- Bose Premium Sound System with 12 Speakers
- Smartphone Wireless Charger (Front)
- Acoustic Front Windshield
- Grab Handles with Touch Sensor & Pocket Lighting
- Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold
- Rear Sunshade Curtain
- Smart key with Remote Start/Stop
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
- Double D-Cut – Dual Tone Leatherette Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control
- C-Type USB Charger (All Rows x2)
- Driver Seat Welcome Retract Function
- Comfort Front Ventilated Seats with 3-Step Cooling
- 4-Way Adjustable Headrest (Driver & Passenger)
- ADAS Level 2+ with 30 Autonomous Features
- Drive Modes
- 6- and 7-seat Configuration Options
- 12 Parking Sensors
- 10 Airbags
- Smart Dashcam with Front and Rear Camera
- Dial-type Shift-by-Wire Selector
- Remote Parking Assist
- ccNC Accelerated by NVIDIA
- Kia AI Assistant
- Kia Connect 2.0 with 85+ Features
- OTA Software Updates
- Digital Key 2.0
- 10-way Powered Driver and Co-passenger Seats with Lumbar Adjust
- Relaxation Power Driver and Passenger Seat
- Driver Seat Ergo Function
- Integrated Memory System (Driver and ORVM)
- Ventilated Seating with 3-step Cooling for Front and 2-row Seats
New Kia Sorento SUV – Specs
The new Kia Sorento SUV is available with two powertrain options – a 1.6-litre turbo GDI Hybrid petrol and a 2.2-litre turbo diesel mill. These generate a healthy 180 PS / 265 Nm (supported by a 65 PS electric motor delivering 264 Nm) and 193 PS / 442 Nm of peak power and torque, respectively. These come mated to a 6-speed automatic and 8-speed DCT gearboxes, respectively. Both these mills can be had with an all-wheel-drive option along with dedicated Terrain Modes – Snow, Sand and Mud.
| Specs | Kia Sorento (P) | Kia Sorento (D) |
| Engine | 1.6L Turbo Petrol Hybrid | 2.2L Turbo Diesel |
| Power | 180 PS (supported by a 65 PS electric motor) | 193 PS |
| Torque | 265 Nm (supported by a 65 PS electric motor delivering 264 Nm) | 442 Nm |
| Transmission | 6AT | 8DCT |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / AWD | 2WD / AWD |
New Kia Sorento SUV – Colours and Dimensions
The SUV is available in 8 mono-tone paint schemes – Glacier White Pearl, Gravity Gray, Imperial Blue, Magma Red, Pewter Olive, Ivory Silver Gloss, Aurora Black Pearl, and a matte Dark Gun Metal finish. Furthermore, the dimensions of the car are as follows:
| Dimensions (mm) | Kia Sorento |
| Length | 4,815 |
| Width | 1,900 |
| Height | 1,785 |
| Wheelbase | 2,815 |
New Kia Sorento Variants List and Colour Options Leaked
Updated on 02.09.2026 – The new Kia Sorento is about to launch in India as details are being leaked ahead of its arrival. Sorento will be the new premium 3-row SUV from the Korean auto giant that will sit above the Seltos in our market. However, it will cater to a whole new segment of customers looking for a premium experience in the Rs 30 lakh price space. I must admit that this is a relatively niche category with not a lot of options for buyers. This gap is exactly what Kia would want to exploit to its advantage. For now, let us check out what we know so far!
According to various sources online, the new Kia Sorento in India will be on offer in 8 colour themes – Glacier While Pearl, Gravity Grey, Imperial Blue, Red, Pewter Olive, Ivory Silver Gloss, Aurora Black Pearl and Matte Graphite. Apart from that, we also know that there will be FWD and AWD avatars, petrol hybrid and diesel mills and multiple trims, including – HTE, HTE (O), HTK, HTX, HTX Black and HTX Black-line. Furthermore, the buyers will be able to choose between 6-seat and 7-seat configurations. Hence, it is clear that the consumers will have all sorts of options according to their individual requirements.
New Kia Sorento Leaked Inside Out Ahead of Launch
Updated on 01.09.2026 – The new Kia Sorento has been doing rounds on the internet for the past few days. This time around, we came across a video clip that captures the leaked footage of the SUV with its exterior and interior completely exposed. We already know that the exterior styling is inspired by the latest design philosophy from the Korean auto giant. Hence, there are elements like striking LED DLRs, LED lighting, a sporty bumper, elegant dual-tone alloy wheels, chrome elements, rugged skid plates at the front and rear, and an imposing overall stance. However, the new video even showcases how the SUV looks from the inside.
As expected, the cabin looks ultra-premium, modern and tech-savvy. The first thing that catches the eye is the connected display for the driver’s instrumentation and infotainment. Apart from that, the other bits include a dual-tone colour theme, a four-spoke steering wheel, a large panoramic sunroof, new connected car tech, powered seats, a 7-seat layout, premium materials, and much more. It is evident that Kia will equip the Sorento with all the latest amenities to pamper new customers. We will witness new details in the coming days.
Kia Sorento Spotted Testing Undisguised on Public Road – Video
Updated on 31.08.2026 – The upcoming Kia Sorent SUV was recently seen performing rounds on public roads in India without any camouflage. In fact, the visuals showcase the entire front, side and rear profiles of the vehicle. At the front, we witness a striking appearance with sleek LED DRLs on the edges of the bonnet, while the main headlamp cluster is neatly encapsulated within them, a well-proportioned grille, a sporty bumper and a splitter. All these elements give it a sporty look clearly inspired by the latest Kia design philosophy.
Moving down the sides reveals functional roof rails, rugged side body skirting, elegant dual-tone alloy wheels and large dimensions. Also, the black side pillars and chrome frame add to the premium vibe of the SUV. Completing the exterior styling is the rear profile with a roof-mounted spoiler, an adventurous skid plate underneath the rear bumper, and compact LED taillamps. All in all, the new Sorento bears a distinct road presence, while carrying the familiar design philosophy from Kia. More details will emerge in the coming days.
Kia Releases Official Images of the New Sorento 3-row SUV
Updated on 21.08.2026 – Kia has officially showcased the images of its upcoming 7-seat premium SUV for the Indian market, the Sorento. With this announcement, the Korean auto giant also confirmed the commencement of production of the Sorento at the Anantapur plant in Andhra Pradesh. The primary aspects of the large SUV include its bold and progressive design language and the commanding stance for an imposing road presence. It clearly oozes that premium vibe. Kia has also mentioned that it will be available with hybrid AWD and diesel powertrain options. Hence, the needs of all sorts of buyers can be met.
Even on the inside, the new Kia Sorento will be loaded with all the tech and convenience amenities to the brim. The materials used for the cabin are premium and the connectivity tech is quite impressive. In fact, the carmaker will debut the Kia AI Assistant, powered by Generative AI, with the Sorento for the first time globally. This enables dynamic, conversational interactions while providing real-time and continuously updated information. We know that Kia cars are among the most feature-laden in their respective segments and that will continue to be the case even with the Sorento. More details will emerge in the coming days.
New Kia Sorento (Toyota Fortuner Rival) To Launch on September 4
Updated on 05.08.2026 – The upcoming Kia Sorento hybrid SUV is slated to launch on September 4, 2026, in India. Note that it will go up against the mighty Toyota Fortuner as Kia’s flagship ICE product. Sorento has already been a famed moniker in Kia’s global portfolio for over 2 decades. It will come with hybrid and diesel powertrains. The premium 3-row SUV will focus on offering an extensive list of the latest tech, convenience and connectivity amenities in addition to active and passive safety equipment.
In fact, that has been Kia’s strength regardless of the segment it operates in. Its models are among the most feature-packed cars in their respective categories. I believe this will be a huge advantage of the Sorento over SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner. The other prominent models in this class include MG Gloster, Skoda Kodiaq, VW Tayron and Jeep Meridian. Hence, the space is competitive, but the Korean auto giant would like to grab some market share away from the Fortuner, which is by far the strongest-selling SUV. More details will emerge in the coming days.
New Kia Sorento Hybrid SUV Officially Teased Ahead of Debut
Updated on 03.08.2026 – The much-awaited Kia Sorento hybrid SUV has been officially teased for the Indian market. For the uninitiated, the Sorento moniker has been a popular product across international markets since 2002. With over two decades of global success, the Sorento is finally making its way to our shores. In fact, it will be the first hybrid SUV from the Korean auto giant in India. In its portfolio, the Sorento will most likely be positioned above the existing Seltos.
Even though a lot of details have not been announced yet, the teaser showcases a broad silhouette of the premium SUV. Going by the international model, it will carry the latest global design language from Kia. In fact, we could see some elements from the Seltos. On the inside, the list of features will be rather expansive. That is something Kia already excels at. Finally, the most pertinent information in the press release is the availability of a pure hybrid powertrain. It will be aimed at maximizing fuel efficiency, albeit the cost is something we will need to keep an eye out for. More details will surface in the coming weeks.
New 7-seat Kia Sorento Spied in India For the First Time Ever
Originally published on 25.11.2025 – The Kia Sorento 3-row SUV has been spotted in India for the very first time. Sorento is a popular model from the Korean auto giant in many international markets. These include North America, Latin America, the Middle East and Europe. Hence, the Sorento moniker is known to many even in India. Still, Kia had no intentions of bringing it to our shores until now. With the premium mid-size 3-row SUV segment expanding rapidly, we might even get yet another new product in this space. For now, let us delve into the details of the test mule.
New 7-seat Kia Sorento Spied in India
The images of the heavily camouflaged SUV have been circulating on the internet. We see an SUV with a large footprint, which indicates a long wheelbase. Additionally, the 19-inch elegant dual-tone alloy wheels are clearly visible in these images. Apart from that, it looks like the SUV is carrying the latest design philosophy from Kia with prominent LED DRLs at the front, along with LED headlamps and a sporty bumper. A few news reports even claim that a brief glimpse on the inside revealed a dual 12.3-inch display setup – one for the infotainment system and one for the driver’s instrument cluster. Being a Kia, it goes without saying that the cabin will be loaded with features to the brim.
Expected Specs
This is where things get a bit exciting. In the international markets, there are multiple powertrains under the bonnet of the Kia Sorento. This includes a 1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid and a 1.6-litre turbo petrol with a plug-in hybrid setup generating 238 hp and 288 hp of peak power, respectively. However, the Indian-spec version could borrow the engines from the upcoming new-gen Seltos. This could mean that the 1.5-litre NA petrol engine with a hybrid configuration and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with manual and automatic transmissions. In any case, it is too early to know anything for sure.
My View
Kia is one of the most successful foreign carmakers in the country ever. Its products have represented affordable luxury, which has been their USP since the beginning. With the Sorento, Kia could once again aim to achieve something truly remarkable by offering multiple vehicles in the same segment, as it already sells the Carens Clavis siblings. Let us keep an eye out for more details as and when they emerge.
Editor’s Note
Yatharth Chauhan, Managing Editor
Having observed Kia’s rise in India from day one, the Sorento’s appearance on our roads is a strong hint that the brand is eyeing the premium three-row space more seriously. This segment has heated up quickly with buyers now willing to pay for comfort, tech and hybrid powertrains, and Kia knows how to position itself in that sweet spot of “accessible premium.” If the India-spec Sorento gets the right feature mix and a hybrid option, it could slot in neatly above the Carens without cannibalising it. It’s still early, but this could be Kia’s next big play in the ₹20-30 lakh bracket.
Also Read: 6 New SUVs Coming to India in 3 Months – Mahindra XEV 9S to Kia Seltos
