Kia Sorento: a new hybrid SUV rival for Fortuner is set to enter the Indian market. Kia has confirmed two new models for India: a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV). While the carmaker has not officially named them, they are expected to be the Kia Syros EV and the Kia Sorento 7-seater hybrid SUV. The Syros EV is likely to launch in August, while the Kia Sorento is expected to arrive during the 2026 Diwali festive season. This will be Kia’s first hybrid offering in India, competing with monocoque SUVs like Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron R-Line, and Jeep Meridian, as well as ladder-frame models like Toyota Fortuner and MG Majestor. Prices for the Kia Sorento are expected to start around Rs 30 lakh.
The Kia Sorento measures 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,700mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,815mm and ground clearance of 175mm. It will be Kia’s first three-row SUV in India, offered in 2+2+2 or 2+3+2 seating configurations. The SUV could come with an all-new hybridized 1.5L petrol engine for India, while globally it uses a 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a 1.49kWh battery, producing 227bhp and 350Nm torque. It features a 6-speed automatic transmission with FWD and AWD options.
The Kia Sorento will be packed with premium features, including a panoramic curved display, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, heated and ventilated seats, a 360-degree surround view monitor, 64-color ambient lighting, quilted leather seats, USB-C ports, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging, up to 12 parking sensors, 6 airbags, and Level 2 ADAS.
In conclusion, the Kia Sorento promises to be a strong hybrid SUV rival for Fortuner, blending advanced hybrid powertrain, versatile seating, and premium tech. Its competitive pricing and feature-rich package could make it a popular choice among Indian families looking for an efficient and comfortable seven-seater SUV.
