Kia is getting ready to enter the premium 7-seater SUV segment in India, and the first big hint has arrived — the Kia Sorento Hybrid has been spotted testing on Indian roads. This shows that Kia may soon take on powerful SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner, making the 2026 launch one to watch.
The Sorento sits above the Seltos and Carens in the global market and is expected to become Kia’s new flagship SUV in India.
Hybrid Powertrain: Kia’s Big Weapon
The spy shots reveal a rotary dial gear selector, a feature offered only on hybrid models globally. This clearly suggests that Kia is planning to bring the Strong Hybrid or Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) version to India.
Expected Engine Output
1.6-litre Turbo-Petrol Plug-in Hybrid
- Combined Power: 261 BHP
- Gearbox: 6-speed Automatic
This makes the Sorento almost 60 BHP more powerful than the Toyota Fortuner’s 201 BHP diesel engine — a big advantage on paper.
Other Global Engines
- 2.5-litre petrol
- 2.2-litre diesel (200 BHP, 8-speed DCT)
However, with India shifting toward hybrid technology, the hybrid variant is the most likely option for our market.
Big Dimensions and Strong Road Presence
The Sorento is built to look and feel like a full-size SUV.
- Length: ~4.8 metres
- Wheelbase: ~2.8 metres
- Wheels: 19-inch alloy wheels (235/55 R19 tyres)
These dimensions give the Sorento a powerful road presence, along with a spacious cabin that families will appreciate.
Premium Interior With High-Tech Features
Kia is known for offering rich, feature-loaded interiors, and the Sorento is expected to continue this trend.
Expected Features
- Dual 12.3-inch curved displays
- Level 2 ADAS (lane keep, adaptive cruise, emergency braking)
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated seats
- Multi-zone climate control
- Premium soft-touch materials
- Bose audio system
This makes the Sorento a more modern and luxurious option compared to the rugged, traditional Fortuner.
Price and Competition
Kia is clearly aiming at the premium 7-seater SUV market. Expected rivals include:
- Toyota Fortuner
- Skoda Kodiaq
- MG Gloster
Expected Price
The Kia Sorento is likely to be priced between ₹35 lakh and ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, depending on the variant and powertrain.
The success of the Sorento will depend on how Indian buyers react to its mix of hybrid performance, premium features, and modern design, especially when compared to the Fortuner’s strong reputation and reliability.
Final Thoughts
So, what do you think — can the Kia Sorento Hybrid challenge the Toyota Fortuner in India? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
