KIA is preparing to introduce its first hybrid vehicle to the Indian market—the KIA Sorento. The launch of this model is scheduled for early next month, and the company has already released photos of the car and disclosed several technical specifications for the Indian market.
The new KIA Sorento will be equipped with three rows of seats, providing seating capacity for seven passengers. The vehicle will be available in both hybrid and diesel engine versions. The company confirmed that the hybrid version will be available with all-wheel drive, which will give it uniqueness in its segment.
The future Sorento SUV will feature the KIA AI Assistant system for the first time, which is not offered in global variants. Production of the Sorento has already begun at the Anantapur plant. In India, the Sorento will become KIA's flagship SUV and also the company's first model with three rows of seats in this market. The release of photos confirms that production is taking place directly in India, which is expected to lower the final cost of the vehicle. Preliminary estimates suggest the price could range from 30 to 35 lakh rupees, including export duties.
The car will be presented in matte black, hinting at the possible availability of the X-Line trim. The model intended for India will differ from global variants. The design includes vertically oriented headlights, a substantial grille, fog lights, an ADAS radar, and roof rails. Additional elements include chrome accents near the windows, silver trim on the fenders and doors, large wheel rims, and rounded wheel arches.
The interior space will be finished in a two-tone scheme. The Sorento will feature a dual display complex, including a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and dashboard. Music and climate control will be managed via physical buttons. The cabin features a multi-level cockpit, with the upper part in black and the lower part in beige. The presence of a sunroof has also been confirmed.