Kia India is gearing up to introduce its first hybrid offering in the country, the Kia Sorento Hybrid. Unofficial bookings for the vehicle have commenced at various dealerships, reflecting the company’s efforts to engage potential buyers before the official market launch. Positioned above the Seltos in the brand's lineup, this premium three-row, 7-seater SUV is designed to directly challenge popular rivals such as the Mahindra XUV700 and the Tata Safari.
There is a strong possibility that the vehicle will be launched during the upcoming festive season. The Sorento Hybrid marks the start of the company’s hybrid technology rollout in India, which is a core component of its goal to capture a 7.6% market share by 2030. With a bold aesthetic, premium interior features, and impressive mileage, this family-oriented SUV is expected to attract customers looking for a balance of power, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Here is everything revealed so far about this anticipated model.
Bookings and Pricing
Unofficial bookings for the Kia Sorento Hybrid have already been accepted at several dealerships, driven by consumer interest following road test sightings and leaked information. While the official launch is projected for late 2026, the early availability of bookings underscores the company's proactive preparations. The vehicle is expected to carry an ex-showroom price tag ranging between ₹28 lakh and ₹35 lakh.
Design and Exterior
The Sorento Hybrid will feature a modern, bold design heavily influenced by the EV9. Stretching roughly 4.8 meters, the SUV will come equipped with vertical LED headlamps, the signature large tiger-nose grille, squared-off wheel arches, and alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 19 inches. A panoramic sunroof and muscular body lines will give it the commanding look of a premium family SUV, as seen in recent spy shots.
Interior and Tech Features
Inside the cabin, owners can expect a premium experience. The dashboard will house a dual 12.3-inch curved display that integrates the infotainment system and the driver instrument cluster. Other high-end amenities include a head-up display, heated and ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof, premium audio from Bose, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, and multi-zone climate control. The 7-seater configuration will offer ample space, complemented by leather upholstery and soft-touch interior materials. Connectivity features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will be standard.
Safety and ADAS
Safety is a priority, with the vehicle expected to feature a full suite of Level-2 ADAS, including forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Further security is provided by a 360-degree camera system, rear cross-traffic alerts, and multiple airbags. The global version has already secured a 5-star rating from the NHTSA, providing a strong baseline for expectations in India.
Engine and Performance
The Indian market variant is expected to pair a 1.6-liter turbo petrol engine (delivering 177 hp and 265 Nm) with a PMSM electric motor (contributing 64 hp and 250 Nm). The combined system output could reach between 227-236 hp and 380 Nm of torque. With a 6-speed automatic transmission, the car will offer both FWD and AWD configurations, capable of hitting 0-100 km/h in approximately 8-9 seconds.
Efficiency and Hybrid Tech
In terms of fuel economy, the FWD model is expected to return between 15-16 kmpl. The 1.49 kWh battery pack will enable an EV-only mode for city driving, significantly enhancing overall efficiency and offering a refined balance between power and economy.
