Car brands often tease upcoming models through hidden headlights, a silhouette, or a small glimpse of the design. Kia has taken a completely different route this time. The company has shared an image of Piazza Tasso, the famous town square in Sorrento, Italy, and asked people to guess the location. That single image gives away the biggest clue yet. We had already expected Kia’s upcoming premium SUV to be called the Sorento, and this latest teaser almost confirms it.
Interestingly, unofficial bookings for the SUV have already started at select dealerships, showing that preparations are moving ahead.
A Teaser Without Showing The Car
Rather than revealing the name of the SUV itself, Kia posted a scenic picture with a simple message asking people to identify the city.
Once you search for the place, the answer is Sorrento, a beautiful coastal town in Italy. The connection is easy to understand because Kia’s global three row SUV carries almost the same name.
This is one of the most unusual teaser campaigns from any carmaker in recent times.
Earlier Teaser Already Dropped A Hint
Recently, Kia confirmed that it would introduce one EV and one hybrid model.
The EV has already arrived as the Syros EV. Now this latest teaser makes it clear that the hybrid model is expected to be the Sorento, which will also become Kia’s first strong hybrid SUV for India.
What The Kia Sorento Could Offer
The India spec SUV is expected to stay very close to the global version. Some expected highlights include:
- Three row layout with six and seven seat options
- Kia Tiger Nose grille
- Full LED lighting
- 19 inch alloy wheels
- Dual 12.3 inch displays
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Powered driver seat
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 360 degree camera
- Ambient lighting
- Bose sound system
- Level 2 ADAS
The cabin is also expected to offer good space along with several storage areas for family use.
Expected Powertrain Options
The biggest attraction could be the strong hybrid setup.
| Engine | Expected Output | Transmission |
|---|---|---|
| 1.6 litre turbo petrol strong hybrid | 238 hp and 380 Nm | 6 speed automatic |
| 2.2 litre diesel | 202 hp and 440 Nm | Automatic |
The hybrid system combines a turbo petrol engine with an electric motor and a 1.49 kWh battery pack. Global versions are available with both front wheel drive and all wheel drive, although it is not yet known which version will be offered here.
Size And Rivals
Globally, the Sorento measures 4,815 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width and 1,700 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,815 mm, making it one of the larger SUVs in its class.
Expected rivals include:
- Toyota Fortuner
- Skoda Kodiaq
- Volkswagen Tayron
- Jeep Meridian
- MG Majestor