Kia's first hybrid SUV to rival Fortuner, Kodiaq, Meridian set for September 4 launch

Kia India will launch the Sorento on September 4 as its flagship three-row SUV and first strong hybrid model for India. The range of the Sorento is expected to start around Rs 40 lakh, it will rival premium SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq.

Kia India is set to expand its SUV portfolio with the launch of the Sorento on September 4, 2026. The three-row SUV will mark Kia's entry into the strong hybrid segment in India. The company has already started accepting bookings ahead of the launch.

Expected to be assembled in India through the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route, the Sorento is likely to be priced from around Rs 40 lakh (ex-showroom). It will take on established premium three-row SUVs including the Volkswagen Tayron, Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, MG Majestor and Jeep Meridian.

Hybrid and diesel engine options

Kia is expected to offer the Sorento with two powertrain choices. The headline attraction will be a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol strong hybrid, making it the first Kia hybrid to go on sale in the Indian market. Based on the international-spec model, the hybrid setup is expected to produce around 238bhp and 380Nm of torque, paired with an automatic gearbox.

The second option is likely to be the familiar 2.2-litre diesel engine that also powers the Kia Carnival. The four-cylinder unit develops 202bhp and 441Nm of torque overseas and is expected to be offered exclusively with an automatic transmission in India.

While global markets offer both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions of the Sorento, Kia is yet to confirm which drivetrain configurations will be introduced for Indian buyers.

Larger than most rivals

The Sorento measures 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width and around 1,700mm in height, while riding on a 2,815mm wheelbase. These dimensions make it one of the largest SUVs in its segment, promising generous cabin space across all three rows.

The SUV adopts Kia's latest design language with a bold front fascia featuring the signature Tiger Nose grille, vertically stacked LED headlamps, T-shaped daytime running lights and sculpted bumpers. Flared wheel arches, dual-tone alloy wheels and upright LED tail-lamps further add to its road presence.

Premium cabin with six- and seven-seat layouts

The India-spec Sorento is expected to be offered in both six-seat and seven-seat configurations, with higher variants featuring captain seats in the second row.

Inside, the dashboard is dominated by a pair of 12.3-inch screens serving as the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. Other highlights include a four-spoke steering wheel, touch-sensitive climate controls, a rotary gear selector and premium dual-tone upholstery.

Boot space is rated at 179 litres with all three rows in use, expanding to nearly 2,000 litres when the rear seats are folded.

Feature-rich package

Kia is expected to equip the Sorento with a comprehensive list of comfort and safety features. These are likely to include ventilated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, ambient lighting, a powered driver's seat and a premium Bose sound system.

On the safety front, the SUV is expected to offer a 360-degree camera, electronic parking brake with auto hold, hill descent control, multiple airbags and a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite, along with features such as a heads-up display and terrain drive modes on select variants.

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