Kia India has confirmed that it will launch the all-new Sorento on September 4, making it the brand's first hybrid SUV for the Indian market. The India-spec Sorento is expected to be offered with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid powertrain alongside a 2.2-litre diesel engine. Once launched, it will rival the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, Jeep Meridian and MG Majestor. Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming Kia Sorento.
Exterior
On the outside the Kia Sorento gets Kia’s signature tiger nose grille and LED headlamps. In the profile the Kia Sorento gets dual-tone alloy wheels and flared wheel arches. At the rear it gets LED taillamps and muscular bumpers.
Interior and Features
On the inside, the global-spec Kia Sorento features a dual 12.3-inch display setup and a four-spoke steering wheel. It also gets a multi-function touch panel that can be switched between climate control and infotainment controls. Feature highlights include electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, a Level 2 ADAS suite, a head-up display, and a panoramic sunroof. We expect the India-spec Sorento to be offered with the same set of features, along with both six-seat and seven-seat seating configurations.
Powertrains
Kia is expected to offer the Sorento in India with both hybrid and diesel powertrain options. We expect that the SUV will be powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol hybrid engine producing 238hp and 380Nm and a 2.2-litre diesel engine that produces 202hp and 441Nm. Both powertrains are likely to be paired with automatic gearboxes. While the global-spec Sorento is available with both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, we expect that the India spec Sorento will be offered as an all-wheel-drive.
Pricing and Market positioning
We expect the Kia Sorento to be priced between ₹37 lakh and ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, it will rival the Toyota Fortuner, MG Majestor, Volkswagen Tayron, Skoda Kodiaq and Jeep Meridian. With its hybrid powertrain, feature-loaded cabin and distinctive design, the Sorento is expected to offer a unique alternative in the premium three-row SUV segment.
