Kia will launch its seven-seater Sorento SUV in India on September 4, 2026, giving buyers a premium three-row option with more space and features than the popular Seltos.
The Sorento will sit at the top of Kia’s petrol and diesel SUV lineup in India and is expected to compete with rivals such as the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, Jeep Meridian and Toyota Fortuner.
Two features make this launch stand out. First, the Sorento will be the first petrol or diesel-powered Kia in India to offer all-wheel drive (AWD), giving it better grip and control, especially on poor roads or in bad weather. Until now, AWD in Kia’s India lineup has only been paired with hybrid models sold in other countries.
Second, the SUV will come with a “Live Gen AI” assistant, a voice system that understands natural language, much like talking to a smart assistant. Instead of using fixed commands, drivers and passengers can simply speak naturally to control functions in the car or get information through the infotainment system.
Under the hood, the Sorento is expected to use a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol strong-hybrid engine, marking Kia’s first strong-hybrid model in India, with a diesel option also possible. In other markets, the hybrid version of the Sorento produces around 227 horsepower and can be paired with AWD.
The SUV measures over 4.8 metres in length with a wheelbase of about 2.8 metres, and will be offered with either six seats, using individual captain seats in the second row, or a more traditional seven-seat bench layout.
Expected features include twin 12.3-inch digital screens, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and powered front seats, wireless smartphone connectivity, a 360-degree camera, a head-up display on higher variants, and Level 2 driver-assistance (ADAS) systems.
Prices are expected to range between ₹30 lakh and ₹40 lakh, ex-showroom, though Kia has not officially confirmed pricing yet. With the Sorento, Kia is bringing together three major technologies for the first time in its India petrol and diesel lineup: strong-hybrid power, AWD, and generative AI.
