Kia Sorento Hybrid Spied Testing In India - Tata Safari Rival Incoming

The Kia Sorento Hybrid, an upcoming three-row SUV, was recently spotted testing in India under heavy camouflage. This marks its first-ever sighting on Indian roads. The SUV is rumoured to launch around late 2026. Based on its dimensions and powertrain, it is expected to slot into the D-segment SUV space, currently dominated by the Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari. Stay tuned to learn more, and in the meantime, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Channel to never miss the latest automotive updates.

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Kia Sorento Hybrid

Kia Sorento Hybrid, is a popular mid-size crossover in USA, and is available in both FWD and AWD setup, with choices of three-powertrain, ICE, Strong hybrid, and Plug-in-hybrid system. The one we Indians will get is Strong Hybrid, with a 1.6L turbocharged inline - 4 cylinder engine mated to 1.5 kWh lithium ion battery pack. The combined resut will be 227 hp and 349 Nm of torque. To break it down, the the engine will make 177 hp and 264.38 Nm of torque, and the battery will produce 59 hp and same Nm of torque. Lastly, all this grunt will be sent to the front-wheels.

So, as per the international sites which have tested this particular model with this specific powertrain - says the car will put out a 869 km of combined range - and in city traffic this will put out 16.6 kmpl of fuel efficiency and 14.9 kmpl on highway, and the combined will be approximately 15.7 kmpl. For a three-row SUV with over a 4.8 meter length, these numbers are staggering and great form of attraction. It will serve the purpose and will also save money on fuel.

Dimensions

Dimensions	Length	Width	Height	Wheelbase	Boot Space
Sorento	4815 mm	1900 mm	1700 mm	2815 mm	179 L

This car looks alligned in terms of design with all the big Kia cars, and has that machno factor- that can attract Indians, as it looks bold and masculine. So, high chances of it being a success in India - and will impact the sales of Safari and XUV 7X0. Plus, it being a hybrid car we can expect it to launch around 25 - 28 lakh, and will go up to Rs 35 lakh (ex-showroom). After all the taxes the top spec variant of it can reach Rs 40 lakh easily.

Features

No two ways about it - being a Kia, this car is expected to be packed with segment-leading features. But let's go over the basics that are almost certain to be included: a dual 12.5-inch screen layout, premium Bose speakers, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, drive and traction modes, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, 19-inch alloy wheels, and Level 2 ADAS.

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