Kia has unofficially started accepting bookings for the upcoming Sorento in India, according to dealer sources. Interested buyers can reserve the premium SUV by paying a token amount of Rs 25,000. Moreover, the Sorento is expected to make its India debut later this month, while deliveries are likely to begin after its anticipated launch in October 2026.
The Sorento will become Kia India’s flagship ICE-powered SUV and will sit above the Carnival in the brand’s SUV lineup.
Engine & Performance
Dealer sources suggest that Kia will offer the Sorento with a 1.6-litre strong-hybrid turbo-petrol engine. Although the company has not revealed the India-spec power figures, the UK-spec model develops a combined 238 HP and 380 NM of torque.
Furthermore, Kia pairs the hybrid powertrain with a six-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the market, the Sorento is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. However, Kia has not yet confirmed which drivetrain configuration will arrive in India.
Multiple Seating Options
One of the Sorento’s biggest highlights could be its seating flexibility. According to dealer sources, Kia plans to offer the SUV in five-seat, six-seat, and seven-seat configurations.
As a result, the Sorento could become the only SUV in its segment to offer three different seating layouts. Consequently, buyers will have greater flexibility depending on their family size and usage requirements.
Exterior Design & Styling
The Sorento follows Kia’s global SUV design philosophy with a bold front fascia and a signature Tiger Nose grille. It also features LED lighting, roof rails, chrome window surrounds, and dual-tone 19-inch alloy wheels.
Although the SUV does not adopt Kia’s latest Opposites United design language, it still offers a premium and modern appearance. Moreover, several camouflaged test mules have already been spotted on Indian roads ahead of launch.
Interior & Features
Inside, the Sorento offers a premium cabin loaded with modern technology. It features dual 12.3-inch displays for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster, creating a clean and contemporary dashboard layout.
In addition, buyers can expect a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, a powered driver’s seat, a 360-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS. Consequently, the Sorento aims to compete with premium SUVs by offering a comprehensive feature list.
Prices In India
Kia has not officially announced the Sorento’s price yet. However, the SUV is expected to carry an ex-showroom price between Rs 40 lakh and Rs 50 lakh.
Bookings have already begun unofficially at select dealerships for a token amount of Rs 25,000.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Booking Amount | Rs 25,000 |
| Expected Price | Rs 40 Lakh – Rs 50 Lakh (Ex-Showroom) |
| Expected Launch | October 2026 |
Rivals In India
Once launched, the Kia Sorento will compete with premium SUVs such as the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, Jeep Meridian, Toyota Fortuner, and MG Gloster. However, the Sorento could stand out by offering a strong-hybrid powertrain along with multiple seating configurations.
Conclusion
The upcoming Kia Sorento will strengthen the brand’s premium SUV portfolio in India. Besides introducing a hybrid powertrain, the SUV is also expected to offer three seating layouts, a feature-rich cabin, and advanced safety technology.
Moreover, local assembly should help Kia position the Sorento competitively in the premium SUV segment. If the expected pricing remains attractive, the Sorento could emerge as a strong alternative to established rivals when it launches later this year.
