Kia Sorento Hybrid spotted in India for the first time, launch expected in 2026

New Delhi: Another new contender is preparing to enter the Indian SUV market. Kia Motors is testing its all-new Kia Sorento Hybrid SUV in the country. The car was first spotted testing on Indian roads, raising hopes of an imminent launch. The company could position it above the Seltos and below the Carnival in its Indian portfolio. The new-generation Seltos is scheduled to launch in early 2026, with the Sorento expected to arrive a few months later. It could also become Kia's first hybrid model in India, strengthening its presence in the hybrid segment.

Design: Boxy, Premium, and Modern Look

The Sorento was spotted testing under heavy black camouflage, but its boxy and bold look was unmistakable. The car clearly features elements like Kia's signature tiger-nose grille, T-shaped LED DRLs, a raised bonnet line, square wheel arches, and large 19-inch alloy wheels.

The global model measures approximately 4.8 meters in length and has a wheelbase of 2,800 mm, suggesting that this SUV will compete with models like the Fortuner and Kodiaq in terms of cabin space. At the rear, a flat tailgate and connected LED taillamps make it even more modern.

Interior: A premium cabin packed with features

Although the interior of the model coming to India has not yet been revealed, it is expected to feature many of the same high-end features as the global model. These could include:

• Panoramic curved screen setup
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 12-speaker Bose sound system
• 360-degree camera
• Multiple airbags
• Wireless charging
• The model spotted featured a rotary dial gear selector, suggesting that the testing model is a hybrid variant.

Engine options: New hybrid setup coming to India

Globally, the Kia Sorento is available in several engine options—1.6L turbo hybrid, 1.6L plug-in hybrid, 2.5L petrol, and 2.5L turbo petrol. In India, Kia may offer its existing 1.5L petrol engine with a hybrid system. The company plans to launch the hybrid Seltos in 2027, but the Sorento could become Kia's first hybrid SUV in India before then.

Price and Competition

The 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid is expected to start around ₹3.5 million in India. Upon launch, it will compete with full-size SUVs like the Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota Fortuner, and MG Gloster.