Kia has revealed the India-spec Sorento ahead of its September 4 launch, confirming that the three-row SUV will be offered with strong-hybrid and diesel powertrains as the carmaker expands its premium portfolio in the country. Production of the Sorento has begun at Kia's Anantapur facility, with a high level of localisation expected to help the company price the SUV competitively. The Sorento will become Kia's first hybrid model in India as well as its first three-row ICE-powered SUV in the market.
Hybrid gets all-wheel drive
The biggest mechanical highlight is the 1.6-litre, four-cylinder strong-hybrid powertrain, which produces 238hp and 380Nm. Kia has confirmed that the hybrid will come with all-wheel drive, giving the Sorento a combination currently unavailable among its direct rivals in India. A 2.0-litre diesel engine will also be offered, producing 202hp and 441Nm. The unit is also used in the Kia Carnival. Both engines are expected to be paired with automatic transmissions.
The Sorento measures approximately 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width and 1,700mm in height, with a 2,815mm wheelbase. Its exterior carries Kia's familiar Tiger Nose grille, vertically positioned LED headlamps with Y-shaped daytime running lights and traditional SUV proportions. At the rear, the SUV gets squared-off tail-lamps with an inverted L-shaped LED signature, a prominent roof spoiler and a two-tone bumper. The India-spec model is also expected to ride on 19-inch alloy wheels.
Premium cabin loaded with tech
Inside, the Sorento features a connected display panel housing the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. While Kia has not confirmed their dimensions, both screens are expected to measure around 12.3 inches. The dashboard uses a layered design with slim air-conditioning vents and Kia's dual-purpose panel for controlling climate and media functions. The centre console houses a wireless charger, large grab handles and a rotary-style drive selector.
Equipment visible on the India-spec model includes ventilated front seats, a digital inside rear-view mirror, powered tailgate, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera and panoramic sunroof. Advanced driver assistance systems will also be available. Kia is expected to offer both six- and seven-seat configurations.
India gets global-first AI feature
Another significant addition is Kia's AI assistant, which will make its global debut on the Sorento with the India-spec model. The feature further underlines Kia's effort to position the SUV as a technology-heavy premium offering.
Prices will be announced on September 4, while bookings are already underway. The Sorento is expected to be positioned at around Rs 30 lakh-Rs 35 lakh, ex-showroom.
Once launched, it will compete with premium three-row SUVs including the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron and Jeep Meridian, with the strong-hybrid AWD powertrain likely to serve as one of its biggest differentiators.