Kia Confirms Sorento SUV for India, Launch Expected Soon

Kia India has confirmed that the Sorento is coming to the Indian market through its latest social media post. Instead of revealing the SUV, the company shared an image of Sorrento, a coastal city in Italy, as a clever way to hint at the model's name. The announcement comes after the Sorento was spotted testing in India several times, suggesting its launch is getting closer.

The upcoming Sorento is expected to become Kia's first strong hybrid SUV in India. Following the Syros EV, the Sorento will strengthen Kia's position in the premium three-row SUV segment.

Kia Uses Sorrento, Italy to Hint at the SUV's Name

In its latest social media post, Kia asked users to identify a famous city using Google Lens or an AI assistant. Since the city shown was Sorrento, it clearly points towards the Sorento, with only one letter separating the two names.

The post also aligns with Kia's earlier announcement about introducing new hybrid and electric models in India. While the company has not shared any technical details or specifications yet, the latest post confirms that the Sorento will be one of Kia's upcoming products for the Indian market.

Launch Expected in the Coming Months

The Sorento has already been spotted testing multiple times in India, showing that development work is in its final stages. According to RushLane, a few Kia dealerships have also started accepting unofficial bookings, with booking amounts ranging from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 50,000. Official bookings, however, are yet to begin.

The SUV is expected to launch around late August or early September. It is likely to be brought to India through the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route, which could help Kia price it at around Rs. 45 lakh (ex-showroom). The Sorento will sit above the Seltos and Carens, making it Kia's flagship SUV for the Indian market.

Strong Hybrid Engine and Premium Features

Although Kia has not confirmed the India-spec powertrain, the Sorento is expected to use a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a strong hybrid system. The SUV may also be offered with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, while a regular petrol version could arrive later. A diesel engine is unlikely to be part of the lineup.

The India-spec Sorento is expected to offer several premium features, including:

• Dual 12.3-inch digital displays
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ventilated front seats
• Premium upholstery
• Multi-zone climate control
• Bose sound system
• 360-degree camera
• Level 2 ADAS

Globally, the Sorento measures 4,815 mm long, 1,900 mm wide, 1,700 mm tall, and has a 2,815 mm wheelbase, making it one of the larger SUVs in its segment.

Expected Rivals in India

The Kia Sorento will enter the premium three-row SUV segment in India. It will compete with the Toyota Fortuner, MG Majestor, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, and Jeep Meridian. With its expected strong hybrid powertrain, premium cabin, and advanced features, the Sorento could also appeal to buyers considering the top-spec Toyota Innova Hycross. This gives Kia an opportunity to attract customers looking for a spacious family SUV with hybrid technology and modern features.