Kia drives into new car market with 3-row Sorento

Kia has entered India's hybrid passenger vehicle market with the launch of its new three-row Sorento SUV, priced at Rs 28 lakh, according to a report from Gurugram on Friday. The automaker's entry into the premium three-row service segment comes as hybrid vehicles gain popularity as an intermediate technology in India's transition towards cleaner mobility.

The Sorento will be available with a petrol-hybrid powertrain, a diesel engine, and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration. Production of the SUV has already commenced in India, with official pre-bookings open for Rs 25,000. Kia's decision to introduce a hybrid alongside a conventional diesel powertrain reflects the evolving nature of India's shift towards cleaner transportation.

The Sorento competes with other premium SUVs like Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, MG Tomahawk, and Volkswagen Tayron. The 2026 model features advanced technology, including L-shaped LED daytime running lights, vertically stacked projector headlamps, a gloss-black grille, and Level 2 ADAS. It also boasts a panoramic sunroof, a four-spoke steering wheel, and an integrated spoiler with a high-mounted stop lamp.

Inside, the SUV offers Level 2 ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, and a new four-spoke steering wheel. Kia's global expertise in intelligent vehicle technology is showcased through its AI assistance, promising a new dimension of real-time generative AI capabilities for Indian consumers.