Kia's first hybrid SUV in India will come with all-wheel drive setup

Kia's upcoming Sorento will bring strong hybrid technology and all-wheel drive to India, making it the brand's first hybrid SUV here, with a premium three-row package and advanced technology.Kia India has confirmed another key detail about its upcoming Sorento, with the company’s latest teaser revealing that the SUV’s strong hybrid powertrain will be paired with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system in India. The three-row SUV is scheduled to launch on September 4, 2026, and will become Kia’s first strong hybrid model in the Indian market.A legacy that knows no borders. India is next.And it arrives with more than a celebrated name. Think intelligent conversations with Live Gen AI, the efficiency of hybrid power and the confidence of AWD. A lot has gone into making this Sorento worth the wait.Pre-book now. pic.twitter.com/bByNSGHsvE— Kia India (@KiaInd) August 14, 2026The latest teaser carries the message, “A legacy that knows no borders. India is next,” while highlighting three key technologies, Live Gen AI, hybrid power and AWD. While Kia had previously confirmed that the Sorento would introduce its strong hybrid technology to India, this is the first official confirmation of the AWD setup.Kia Sorento Hybrid to get AWDThe international-spec Sorento Hybrid is offered with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, but Kia has now confirmed that the India-spec hybrid will get the more capable AWD configuration. The combination of a strong hybrid powertrain and AWD should give the Sorento an advantage in terms of traction, particularly on slippery surfaces and during long-distance touring.The latest teaser also confirms the presence of Kia’s Live Gen AI technology, pointing to a greater focus on connected and AI-powered in-car experiences. The system is expected to add intelligent conversational capabilities to the SUV’s infotainment experience. First strong hybrid Kia in IndiaThe Sorento will mark Kia India’s entry into the strong hybrid segment. It is expected to be powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid powertrain producing around 238-241bhp and 380Nm of combined torque. The setup is expected to be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.Kia is also likely to offer a 2.2-litre diesel engine, similar to the unit used in the Carnival. In international specification, this engine produces around 202bhp and 441Nm, although the exact output for the India-spec model is yet to be confirmed. The diesel is expected to be paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.Three-row SUV with premium featuresThe India-spec Sorento is expected to be offered in six- and seven-seat configurations, with higher variants likely to get second-row captain seats. The SUV measures 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width and around 1,700mm in height, with a 2,815mm wheelbase.The cabin is expected to feature a curved panoramic display incorporating twin 12.3-inch screens, along with a rotary gear selector, touch-sensitive climate controls, panoramic sunroof and premium upholstery. Other expected equipment includes ventilated front and second-row seats, wireless smartphone charging, ambient lighting, a powered driver's seat and a Bose premium audio system.Safety and driver assistance features are expected to include a 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, hill descent control, electronic parking brake with auto hold and a Level 2 ADAS suite. Select variants could also feature a head-up display and terrain drive modes.Kia Sorento India launch and expected priceThe Sorento is expected to be assembled in India through the CKD route, with prices likely to start at around Rs 40 lakh (ex-showroom). It will compete in the premium three-row SUV space against models such as the Volkswagen Tayron, Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, MG Majestor and Jeep Meridian.With the combination of a strong hybrid powertrain, AWD, three-row practicality and a technology-rich cabin, the Sorento will become one of the more distinctive new entrants in Kia India’s premium SUV portfolio.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine - EndsPublished On: Aug 14, 2026 16:58 IST