New Delhi. The new Kia Sorento 3-row SUV has been caught on camera for the first time testing in India. It will be one of the first hybrid models from the South Korean automaker and is expected to arrive next year. If launched, the 2026 Kia Sorento will be positioned above the Seltos, whose generation change is due in early 2026. After its launch, it will compete directly with Toyota Fortuner in India, which has been the leader of its segment for a long time.
What was shown in the spy image?
The test mule seen was heavily camouflaged; However, its signature boxy and upright stance was clearly visible. The SUV features Kia's tiger nose grille, T-shaped LED DRLs, raised bonnet, square wheel arches, 19-inch alloy wheels shod with 235/55 R19 tyres, flat tailgate and connected taillamps. The length of the global-spec Sorento is 4.8 meters and its wheelbase is 2,800mm.
Awaiting official details
Although official interior details and features have not been revealed yet, the India-spec version is likely to have similar features to the global-spec model. Expected highlights include panoramic curved screen setup, dual zone automatic climate control, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging pad, 12-speaker Bose sound system, UD, hill start assist, ESC, 360 degree camera, multiple airbags and more. A glimpse of the rotary dial gear selector inside the cabin confirms that this is a hybrid variant.
2026 Kia Sorento hybrid powertrain
The new Sorento is available with multiple engine options, including 1.6L turbo petrol-hybrid, 1.6L plug-in hybrid, 2.5L petrol and 2.5L turbo petrol. Kia India is likely to hybridize its tried and tested 1.5L petrol engine for the upcoming new-generation Kia Seltos and 2026 Kia Sorento. The hybrid Seltos is expected to arrive in 2027, while the Sorento is likely to become the brand's first hybrid model in India.
potential price
The price of 2026 Kia Sorento in India is expected to start from around Rs 35 lakh. When launched, it will compete with SUVs like Skoda Kodiaq, Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster.
Waiting for updated Kia Seltoll
The Kia Seltos may have a 7-speed transmission, but this depends on the model year and engine. Some current petrol variants feature a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT), and the upcoming new generation diesel models are expected to feature a 7-speed automatic transmission.
Petrol Turbocharged Engine: Some Seltos models, which are equipped with the 1.5L turbo petrol engine, can be mated to a 7-speed DCT, as seen in the CarWale listing of a used model and HTX (O) specs.
Upcoming Diesel Engines: The new version of Seltos is rumored to offer a 7-speed automatic transmission for the 1.5L diesel engine, which will replace the current 6-speed automatic. This will be the first in its segment.
Other Transmission: The Seltos is also available with other gearboxes, including 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and CVT, depending on the engine and trim level.