Image credit : Auto Helper Marathi
Kia is gearing up for the official launch of its newest SUV, the Sorento, on 4th September 2026, and the model has already begun arriving at select dealership stockyards across Maharashtra. Images circulating online show top-end versions of the Sorento Hybrid being prepared for display and customer test drives in the Mumbai region, giving enthusiasts an early look at Kia’s upcoming flagship three-row offering.
The arrival of these units marks an important step as Kia India gets ready to introduce its first strong-hybrid model for the Indian market. Locally assembled at the company’s Anantapur facility in Andhra Pradesh, the Sorento is expected to be priced from around ₹40 lakh ex-showroom and will take on established rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, Jeep Meridian and MG Majestor. Pre-bookings are already open through dealerships and the official website, allowing customers to secure their place ahead of the official price reveal and sales commencement on September 4.
On the outside, the India-spec Sorento presents a bold and modern interpretation of Kia’s design language. It features the signature Tiger Nose grille flanked by vertically stacked LED headlamps and distinctive T-shaped or Y-shaped amber daytime running lamps that also serve as turn indicators. LED fog lamps, revised bumpers with silver skid-plate elements, flared wheel arches, dual-tone alloy wheels, roof rails and chrome window surrounds complete the muscular yet refined look. At the rear, connected or vertically oriented LED tail-lamps add a premium finishing touch. Measuring approximately 4,815 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width and 1,700 mm in height with a 2,815 mm wheelbase, the SUV offers strong road presence and ranks among the larger vehicles in its segment.
Step inside and the cabin continues the premium theme with a dual-tone layout finished in soft-touch materials and quality upholstery. A curved panoramic dual 12.3-inch display setup combines a digital instrument cluster with a central touchscreen infotainment system, while a rotary gear selector and touch-sensitive climate controls create a clean, modern centre console. Higher variants are expected to offer a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats (with the possibility of second-row ventilation), a powered driver’s seat with memory function, ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charging, dual-zone climate control and a Bose premium audio system. The Sorento will be available in six- and seven-seat configurations, with captain seats likely offered on top variants for the second row. A standout technology is the debut of Kia’s Live Generative AI Assistant, which arrives first on the India-spec Sorento and enables more natural conversational interactions with the vehicle’s systems.
Under the bonnet, the headline attraction is the strong-hybrid powertrain. A 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine works together with an electric motor to deliver a combined output of roughly 238 to 241 hp and 380 Nm of torque. This setup is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and comes with all-wheel drive as standard on the hybrid, making it Kia’s first such combination in India. A diesel option is also expected, likely using a 2.0- or 2.2-litre engine producing around 202 hp and 441 Nm, mated to an automatic gearbox. The hybrid AWD configuration promises a balance of efficiency for daily driving and added capability for varied road conditions.
Safety and convenience features are expected to include Level 2 ADAS, multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, electronic parking brake with auto-hold, hill-descent control and electronic stability control. Select variants may further add a head-up display and terrain-specific drive modes. Practicality remains a priority, with boot space starting at around 179 litres when all three rows are in use and expanding substantially when the rear seats are folded.
With top-spec examples already reaching Maharashtra dealerships for display and test drives, prospective buyers in Mumbai and surrounding areas now have the chance to experience the Sorento in person before the official launch. The combination of hybrid efficiency, all-wheel-drive confidence, advanced AI technology, spacious three-row practicality and premium styling positions the new Kia as a compelling entrant in India’s growing premium SUV segment. Full specifications, variant details and exact pricing will be confirmed on September 4, 2026.