The premium SUV space in India is about to get another interesting option. Kia has now shown the first official teaser of the Sorento, and this one is important for the brand because it will be Kia India’s first hybrid SUV. The company has also opened official pre bookings through its dealerships and website.
Kia Sorento Teaser Gives First Look
The teaser does not show the complete SUV, but there is enough visible to understand its overall design. The Sorento has a tall body, a wide stance and a strong shoulder line.
The front section gets a different lighting setup with:
- Vertical ice cube style LED headlamps
- Seven shaped LED DRLs
- A lower lighting unit
- A bold two level lighting design
- Upright SUV proportions
The India specification model is expected to follow the design seen in international markets, with some changes for local requirements.
A Large Three Row Family SUV
The Sorento is a three row SUV and will target buyers who want more space along with premium features. Spy images of the cabin have already shown a fairly modern layout.
Expected features include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, leatherette upholstery, multi zone climate control and a large curved display setup.
The cabin is also expected to get:
- Digital driver display
- Large touchscreen infotainment system
- Electric front seats with memory function
- Boss mode for the front passenger
- Captain seats for the second row
- Rear seat ventilation
- 360 degree camera
- Physical controls for important functions
- ADAS safety features
Hybrid Engine Will Be The Main Highlight
Kia has confirmed that the Sorento will be its first hybrid SUV in India. The exact India specification has not been announced yet.
The most likely setup is the 1.6 litre turbo petrol hybrid powertrain used in international markets. In the UK, this setup produces 238 hp and 380 Nm and gets a 1.49 kWh battery.
| Specification | Kia Sorento Hybrid |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6 litre turbo petrol hybrid |
| Power | 238 hp |
| Torque | 380 Nm |
| Battery | 1.49 kWh |
| Transmission | Automatic |
| Drive | FWD / AWD globally |
| Seating | Three row |
A 2.2 litre diesel engine could also be offered in India. This engine makes 202 bhp and 440 Nm in markets where it is available.
A Globally Popular SUV
The Sorento has been sold internationally since 2002. Kia says more than 4.8 million units have been sold across 132 countries. It has also been among Kia’s three best selling models globally in 2024 and 2025.
The SUV has received safety recognition in international markets, including an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and a five star NHTSA safety rating.
Kia has not announced the launch date or India specific prices yet. For now, customers can officially pre book the Sorento before its market launch. The SUV will give Kia a much larger and more premium option in its Indian range.