Kia's first hybrid SUV with AWD to come this week: All you need to know

Kia is set to introduce the Sorento in India this week, bringing its first strong-hybrid SUV with AWD, alongside a diesel option, premium features and new AI-powered technology.Kia is set to launch the Sorento in India on September 4, marking the Korean carmaker’s entry into the strong-hybrid SUV segment in the country. The premium three-row SUV will become Kia’s flagship SUV in India and will be offered with both hybrid and diesel powertrains.The India-spec Sorento is being locally assembled at Kia’s Anantapur plant, with production already underway. Kia has also opened pre-bookings for the SUV through its dealerships and official website ahead of its launch later this week.Kia Sorento: What to expectThe Sorento will bring Kia’s latest global SUV design language to India, featuring an upright front end, a wide stance and a more premium appearance. It will sit above the Carnival in Kia’s SUV hierarchy and is expected to be positioned as a more premium alternative to established three-row SUVs.The India-spec model is expected to measure around 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width and approximately 1,700mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,815mm. Kia is expected to offer the SUV in six- and seven-seat configurations, with captain seats likely to be available on higher variants. Inside, the Sorento is expected to feature a premium dashboard with a curved panoramic display incorporating twin 12.3-inch screens. Other expected features include a rotary gear selector, touch-sensitive climate controls, panoramic sunroof, premium upholstery, ventilated front and second-row seats, wireless charging, ambient lighting, a powered driver's seat and a Bose audio system.Kia Sorento hybrid with AWDThe biggest talking point of the Sorento will be its strong-hybrid powertrain, which will make it Kia India’s first hybrid SUV. Unlike many hybrid SUVs in the segment, the India-spec Sorento Hybrid will be offered with all-wheel drive. The SUV is expected to use a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid powertrain producing around 238-241bhp and 380Nm of combined torque. The powertrain is expected to be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.Internationally, the Sorento Hybrid is available with both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, but Kia has opted for the AWD configuration for the Indian market. This should give the SUV an added advantage for buyers looking for a premium hybrid with greater traction and all-weather capability.Diesel engine also on offerKia will also offer the Sorento with a 2.2-litre diesel engine, giving buyers a choice between electrified and conventional powertrains.In international markets, the diesel engine develops around 202bhp and 441Nm and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. India-specific output and transmission details are expected to be announced closer to the launch.The availability of a diesel option could make the Sorento appealing to buyers who regularly undertake long-distance journeys, while the hybrid is likely to be positioned as the more refined and efficient option for urban and mixed driving.Kia Sorento to get Live Generative AITechnology will be another major highlight of the new Sorento. Kia has confirmed that the India-spec SUV will feature its Kia AI Assistant, powered by Live Generative AI.Kia says the Sorento will be the first Kia globally to introduce this technology. The system is designed to offer more natural, conversational interactions than conventional voice assistants while also providing access to real-time and continuously updated information.The SUV is also expected to feature a 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, hill descent control, an electronic parking brake with auto hold and a Level 2 ADAS suite. Higher variants could additionally get a head-up display and terrain-specific drive modes.Kia Sorento India launch and expected priceThe Kia Sorento will launch in India on September 4, 2026. With local production already underway at Kia’s Anantapur facility, the SUV will be locally assembled for the Indian market.Kia is expected to price the Sorento from around Rs 40 lakh (ex-showroom). It will take on premium three-row SUVs such as the Volkswagen Tayron, Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, MG Majestor and Jeep Meridian.With a strong-hybrid powertrain, AWD, a diesel engine, six- and seven-seat configurations and a long list of premium technology, the Sorento will give Kia a significantly more upmarket offering in India's three-row SUV segment.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine - EndsPublished On: Aug 31, 2026 10:59 IST