The upcoming new Kia Sorento three-row premium SUV is currently undergoing testing ahead of its India launch in 2027. Recently, its bodyshell was spotted being transported on a truck bed, hinting at possible localization for the Indian market.
The Sorento will be one of Kia’s first hybrid offerings in India, challenging the upcoming hybrid models such as 7-seater Renault Duster, 7-seater Maruti Grand Vitara and its Toyota’s derivative. Hyundai is also planning to launch a premium 7-seater hybrid SUV (codenamed Ni1i) sometime next year.
Expected Powertrain
The powertrain specifications for the India-bound Kia Sorento are still under wraps. However, reports suggest that the SUV might use a 1.5L strong hybrid powertrain, which is also expected to debut in the Kia Seltos hybrid.
In global markets, the Sorento is available with multiple engine options including a 1.6L turbo petrol hybrid, a 1.6L turbo petrol plug-in hybrid and a 2.2L diesel hybrid. The SUV also comes with an AWD (all-wheel drive) system in select variants.
Premium Interior & Features
As a premium offering, the global-spec Kia Sorento comes packed with several advanced features such as a massive 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, navigation system with live updates, Bose premium sound system, heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, an ADAS suite, tyre pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors, hill start assist and downhill brake control, a 360-degree camera and more.
Dimensions & Design
Dimensionally, the Kia Sorento measures 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width and 1,700mm in height. Compared to the Mahindra XUV 7XO, which measures 4695mm in length, 1,890mm in width and 1,755mm in height, Kia’s SUV is 120mm longer, 10mm wider and 55mm shorter.
Some of its key design highlights include a larger Tiger nose grille, LED headlamps inspired by Kia’s latest EV design philosophy, connected LED DRLs, sporty bumpers, squared wheel arches, up to 10-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, black body cladding, flush-fitting ORVMs, roof rails and wraparound LED taillamps.
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