Kia Sorento Spied For The First Time While Testing in India

Kia Motors India is making way to establish its first 7-seater SUV in India. The SUV has been spied testing for the first time during testing on Indian roads. This upcoming model is poised to be the Kia Sorento, an SUV to be officially introduced in India, and comes packed with features tailored for the discerning Indian SUV buyer.

The Sorento is expected to fill a gap above the current Seltos and Carens models with its spacious cabin, hybrid powertrain options, and premium design elements. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming Kia Sorento.

Refined Design

Recent spy images showcase the Kia Sorento testing in India with minimal camouflage, highlighting its large and imposing boxy silhouette. It features signature Kia design elements like the distinct tiger-nose grille and vertical LED lights, combined with modern 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels.

The presence of radar sensors on the front bumper hints at sophisticated safety tech, including level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The Sorento's design aligns with its global identity but appears tailored to meet Indian market preferences.

Premium Features

The new Sorento’s biggest selling point is its generously spacious 7-seat interior, ideal for Indian families demanding versatility and comfort. The cabin reportedly includes high-end features like dual 12.3-inch digital displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, ventilated and heated seats, a Bose premium sound system, electric captain seats in the second row, and dual-zone climate control.

Additional luxury touches include a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, wireless connectivity, and a rotary dial gear selector similar to the US-spec model. This makes the Sorento not only practical but also a very premium offering in its segment.

​Kia Sorento: Powertrain & Performance

The Sorento is available with several powertrain options, including naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines, as well as hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. For the Indian market, Kia is likely to bring its 1.6-liter petrol hybrid engine setup, prioritizing fuel efficiency and emissions compliance.

An all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is expected on higher variants, enhancing performance and off-road capability, positioning the Sorento as a versatile SUV capable in varied terrains.

Also Read: The 2026 Kia Seltos Spied Testing In India, Ahead of Its Global Debut in December

Expected Pricing and Launch Timeline

Industry sources suggest the Kia Sorento will be priced aggressively between Rs 35 lakh and Rs 40 lakh, placing it firmly against rivals like the Toyota Fortuner. The official launch is anticipated in 2026 following the ongoing testing phase.

CarBike360 Says

This first sighting of the Kia Sorento on Indian roads marks a significant development for the brand and SUV enthusiasts. Its arrival hints at an exciting new option in the competitive mid-size SUV segment, combining international SUV sophistication with tailored features for Indian buyers, reflecting Kia’s commitment to raising the bar in India’s automotive landscape.