Kia Sorento Launched in India at Rs 27.99 Lakh: Hybrid, Diesel and AWD Options

Kia India has launched the Sorento in the Indian market at an introductory price of Rs 27.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The three-row SUV becomes Kia’s largest locally manufactured internal-combustion SUV in India and marks the company’s entry into the strong-hybrid passenger vehicle segment, according to a report.

The Sorento is offered with both hybrid and diesel powertrains, along with front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations. It is available in six- and seven-seat layouts, depending on the variant. Kia Sorento Hybrid SUV Expected Price and Specs; Know Everything Before Launch on September 4.

Kia Sorento Launched in India

Kia Sorento: Price and Positioning

The Sorento sits above the Carens Clavis in Kia’s India range and measures more than 4.8 metres in length, with a wheelbase of about 2.8 metres. The SUV is available in multiple variants, with the range extending to around Rs 40.39 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top-end version.

With its size, three-row layout and powertrain choices, the Sorento enters a competitive premium SUV segment that includes models such as the Toyota Fortuner and other large three-row SUVs. Upcoming Car Launches in September 2026: From Kia Sorento and Maruti Baleno Facelift to BMW 7 Series, Check Details of All Models Here.

First Kia in India With Strong-Hybrid Powertrain

The biggest change for Kia is the introduction of its strong-hybrid technology in India. The Sorento’s hybrid setup combines a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine with an electric motor. The petrol engine produces around 180bhp and 265Nm, while the electric motor contributes 65bhp and 264Nm. A six-speed automatic transmission is used. The hybrid version is available with both FWD and AWD, giving buyers the option of prioritising efficiency or additional traction.

Diesel Engine Also Available

Kia is also offering the Sorento with a 2.2-litre diesel engine developing 193bhp and 442Nm of torque. The diesel engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and is available in both FWD and AWD versions. AWD versions get additional terrain settings, including Snow, Sand and Mud, alongside the Normal, Eco, Sport and Smart drive modes.

Six- and Seven-Seat Configurations

The India-spec Sorento can be configured as either a six-seater or seven-seater. The six-seat version gets second-row captain chairs, while the seven-seat configuration uses a bench seat in the second row. The front seats offer 10-way power adjustment, ventilation and lumbar support.

The second-row seats also offer slide and recline functions, while the third row can be folded remotely. A powered tailgate with anti-pinch protection is also available.

Feature-Rich Cabin

The Sorento gets a dual 12.3-inch display setup combining the infotainment touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. A head-up display, panoramic sunroof and 12-speaker Bose audio system are also offered.

Other features include ventilated second-row captain seats, wireless smartphone charging and powered front seats. Kia has also introduced a real-time generative AI function in the Sorento, which the company says is a first for the model globally.

Safety and ADAS Features

Safety equipment includes 10 airbags, Level 2+ ADAS, a 360-degree camera, digital inside rear-view mirror and automated parking assistance. The SUV also gets front and rear dashcams, while AWD versions receive hill-descent control and additional terrain modes.

Design and Black Line Edition

The Sorento measures over 4.8 metres in length and rides on 19-inch alloy wheels. Its exterior features vertically stacked LED lighting elements and a rear spoiler with a hidden wiper. Kia is also offering a Black Line Edition, which adds a darker exterior treatment for buyers seeking a more understated appearance.

Competition in India's SUV Market

With the Sorento, Kia is expanding further into the premium three-row SUV market while also introducing hybrid technology to its Indian portfolio. The combination of a strong-hybrid powertrain, diesel option, AWD capability and six- or seven-seat layouts gives Kia a broader offering in a segment that is seeing increasing competition.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 04, 2026 05:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).