This 7-seater hybrid SUV is coming to eat Fortuner's market, know its price and features

This 7-seater hybrid SUV is coming to eat Fortuner's market, know its price and features

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Kia is preparing to launch its first hybrid SUV Sorento Hybrid in India. With 6/7-seater layout, premium features, ADAS, powerful hybrid engine and excellent mileage, this car can challenge Toyota Fortuner, Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari. According to reports, unofficial booking has also started at some dealerships. Know its possible price, launch timeline and all the major features.

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Kia Sorento Hybrid is going to enter the Indian market soon.

Kia India is going to take a big step in the premium SUV segment. The company will soon launch its Sorento hybrid SUV in the Indian market. According to reports, unofficial bookings have already started at some dealerships and the token amount has been kept at Rs 25,000. This will be Kia's first hybrid car in India, which will be positioned above the Seltos and will compete with vehicles like Toyota Fortuner, Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari.

This three-row family SUV, approximately 4.8 meters long, can be available in both 6 and 7 seater options. The estimated price is said to be between Rs 28 to 35 lakh (ex-showroom). By launching this model, which has been successful in the global market, with hybrid powertrain in India, Kia wants to provide a premium and fuel-efficient option. The launch is likely to take place in September-October 2026 or by the end of the year.

possible design

The look of Sorento will be premium and bold. Kia's signature tiger-nose grille, upright boxy stance, sharp LED headlamps and rear lights will create its identity. With length of about 4815 mm, width of 1900 mm and wheelbase of 2815 mm, it will be a spacious family SUV.

Interior and Features

The cabin is expected to have features like dual 12.3 inch display (instrument cluster and infotainment), panoramic sunroof, premium leather upholstery, front ventilated seats, Bose sound system, wireless charging, multi-zone climate control and KIA Connect. Captain seats can also be an option in 6-seater. For safety, level-2 ADAS suite (adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist etc.), 360-degree camera, multiple airbags and other standard features will be available.

Engine, Performance and Mileage

Globally, the 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid (combined approx 227 hp and 350 Nm torque) is available with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. A 1.5-litre hybrid unit may also come to India. It will get FWD and possible AWD options. Mileage is expected to be around 14-15 km/litre (claimed), which will give better fuel economy compared to diesel options.

Overall, the Sorento Hybrid will strengthen Kia's premium portfolio and offer Indian buyers a combination of modern features, space and hybrid efficiency. Its official details are expected to come soon.

About the Author

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Ram Mohan MishraSenior Sub Editor

Ram Mohan Mishra, working as Senior Sub-Editor at News18 Hindi, is active in digital media since 2021 and is currently handling the Auto Desk. They provide car and bike related information in an easy, clear and reliable manner.

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This 7-seater hybrid SUV is coming to eat Fortuner's market, know its price and features

This 7-seater SUV will enter the market soon, booking has started!

Kia India is preparing to launch its first hybrid car Kia Sorento Hybrid in India. Recently, unofficial booking has started at dealerships, which is the company's way of attracting customers before the official launch. This premium three-row 7-seater SUV will be positioned above the Seltos and will compete with vehicles like Mahindra XUV700, Tata Safari.

There are probably plans to launch it in the festival season. The Sorento Hybrid will mark the company's debut of hybrid technology in India, which is part of its aim to achieve 7.6% market share by 2030. With bold design, premium interior and excellent mileage, this family SUV will become an attractive option for those customers who want a combination of power, comfort and fuel efficiency. Let us know about the information related to this so far.

Booking and expected price

Unofficial booking of Kia Sorento Hybrid in India has started at various dealerships. Customers are booking on the basis of testing spottings and leaked information. The official launch is expected to take place in late 2026, but the opening of bookings already shows the company's preparations. Its ex-showroom price can be kept between ₹ 28 lakh to ₹ 35 lakh (ex-showroom).

possible design

The design of the Kia Sorento Hybrid will be EV9-inspired bold and modern. This approximately 4.8 meter long SUV will be provided with vertical LED headlamps, large tiger nose grille, square wheel arches and 18-19 inch alloy wheels. The muscular look, LED taillights and panoramic sunroof will make it an icon of premium family SUV. The design looks quite modern from the spy shots revealed during testing.

Interior and Features

The cabin will be premium. Dual 12.3-inch curved display (infotainment + driver cluster), heads-up display, ventilated and heated front seats, panoramic sunroof, Bose or premium audio system, wireless charging, ambient lighting and multi-zone climate control will be available. The 7-seater layout will have good space in the second and third row. Soft-touch materials and leather upholstery will add comfort. Features like connected car technology, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay will also be included.

No compromise is expected in safety. Level-2 ADAS suite, forward collision avoidance, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, 360 degree camera, rear cross traffic alert and multiple airbags will be provided. Global models have achieved a 5-star rating from NHTSA, which is to be expected here too.

Engine, Performance and Mileage

The Indian version is likely to feature a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine (177 hp, 265 Nm) paired with a PMSM electric motor (64 hp, 250 Nm). The system output can reach 227-236 hp and 380 Nm torque. FWD/AWD option will be available with 6-speed automatic transmission. The speed of 0-100 km/h can be completed in 8-9 seconds.

Mileage is expected to be 15-16 kmpl in FWD and slightly less in AWD. The 1.49 kWh battery pack will support EV mode in the city, which will increase the efficiency of the vehicle. It is going to be able to offer an excellent balance of power and economy.

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New Audi Q7 unveiled! ChatGPT introduced with OLED lights and Quattro AWD

New Audi Q7 unveiled! ChatGPT introduced with OLED lights and Quattro AWD

Audi has globally unveiled the third generation of its popular luxury car Audi Q7. After a successful journey of more than 20 years, the new Q7 is all set to set a new benchmark in versatility, performance and premium comfort. The new Q7 has attractive digital lighting, spacious interior and advanced quattro AWD system, making it perfect for family, business and long drives.

The new generation is built on the new Premium Platform Combustion of the VW Group, in which the powerful 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine comes with MHEV plus technology. The option of five, six or seven seats is available in it. The ability to run on HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) makes it more eco-friendly. Let's take a look at its design, engine and performance details.

Design and interior

The exterior of the new Q7 is confident and muscular. The high shoulder line, powerful silhouette and signature singleframe grille give it a distinct identity on the road. Optional Digital Matrix LED headlights project high-resolution patterns with Micro-LED technology. At the rear, third-generation digital OLED taillights come with communication lighting and active digital signature. Eight different digital light signatures are available. Projection lights at door openings and advanced turn signals (projected on the ground) enhance safety. The flared arches and large wheels (20-23 inches) give it a sporty look.

The cabin is premium and spacious. Clean lines, high-quality materials and geometric dashboard-door integration add a luxury feel. Apart from the standard five-seater, for the first time there is a six-seater (two individual seats in the second row) and seven-seater options. All seats are electrically adjustable. The new center console offers Qi2.2 wireless charging (two phones), larger cup holders and storage. The five-seater has 806 liters (max 2,075 litres) and the seven-seater has 722 liters (max 1,980 litres) of boot space. The highlight is the illuminated panoramic sunroof with switchable transparency. Ambient lighting, contour lighting and dynamic interaction light (IAL) add to the cabin's attractiveness. Optional ventilation, massage and sports seats are available.

Features and safety

The new Q7 is equipped with advanced infotainment, connected technology and comfort features. Features include a panoramic OLED display, ChatGPT-powered voice assistant, Bang & Olufsen 4D audio (including headrest speakers) and multi-zone climate control. Electrically adjustable air vents, power tailgate with foot gesture and aluminum rail system add to the practicality. Features like trained parking, 360-degree camera and reverse assist make daily use easy.

Audi has emphasized on active and passive safety. Adaptive Driving Assistant Plus includes blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking (pedestrian/bicycle detection) and emergency stop function. The lighting system is linked to assistance features, which show lane guidance and orientation. High-resolution lights and projection turn signals enhance safety on the road.

Engine and Performance

Only the 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine will be available at launch. This powertrain is 299 PS/630 Nm or 245 PS/500 Nm. Its MHEV plus technology (18 kW extra power, electric-powered compressor) will provide spontaneous response and better efficiency. Permanent quattro AWD with an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox and a new limited-slip center differential is standard, providing better traction, handling and stability. The standard steel spring or optional adaptive air suspension (Sport variant) maintains the balance of comfort and dynamics. This SUV can run easily on any terrain.

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MG Hector is going to get its biggest update till date, teaser revealed for the first time

MG Hector is going to get its biggest update till date, teaser revealed for the first time

New Delhi. MG Motor India has released the first teaser of its upcoming Hector facelift, which shows that this SUV is going to come with many major changes. Released with the tagline “It's been a long time. Get ready to be shocked”, this teaser gives a glimpse of the new design and the brand's new strategy for the Indian market. This is the first major update of Hector, which is coming after the partnership between MG and JSW. According to initial reports, the company is preparing to launch a more premium, feature-rich and technology-focused version of its flagship ICE SUV.

Awaiting details
Although most of the details of MG Hector facelift have been hidden in the teaser video, many important changes have been revealed from the pictures of the SUV seen during testing. In the spy images, the facelifted MG Hector has been seen testing on the highway, and what catches the most attention is its unique cover. Usually companies use heavy camouflage, but MG has used a green mesh tarpaulin tied with plastic ropes on the body of the SUV. This unique approach makes the test mule easily recognizable, but keeps the fine styling elements of the SUV hidden.

Expecting new exterior
A new exterior can be seen in the 2026 MG Hector, in which the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned, which will make the SUV look more modern and powerful. The new front grille is also included in the visual update, while new 19-inch alloy wheels can also be seen. Despite these changes, MG has retained the SUV's signature LED DRLs and headlamp layout. No major changes have been made in the overall sheet metal and silhouette of the SUV, which clearly shows that this facelift is more focused on cosmetic changes and not on structural changes.

new alloy wheels
Many other changes are also seen in the video. The first thing that catches the eye are the new alloy wheels, whose design is completely different from before, but the five-spoke layout remains intact. At the end of the video, the rear bumper is seen, in which a new skid plate has been given, which gives a sporty look to the SUV. Mild changes are also expected at the tailgate, although the side profile of the SUV remains almost the same and most of the sheet metal is taken from the existing Hector.

technical upgrade
Along with the external changes, many new features in terms of interior and technology can also be found in the 2026 MG Hector facelift. Ventilated seats can be provided for both front and rear passengers, which will increase the comfort level. The SUV can also get upgraded connected car technology, smoother and intuitive user interface and better ADAS features. All these changes have been designed to make Hector more premium and according to the changing needs of customers in the mid-size SUV segment.

Engine and Transmission
There will be no changes in terms of engine and transmission in the facelifted MG Hector. As before, it will have options of 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine (141 hp and 250Nm) and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine (167 hp and 350Nm torque).

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Big touchscreen, hud-abas! Toyota Fortuner coming in a completely new avatar, and 'Bhukali' will be SUV

Big touchscreen, hud-abas! Toyota Fortuner coming in a completely new avatar, and 'Bhukali' will be SUV

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2026 Toyota Fortuner: Toyota Fortuner will debut with a new generation model in 2026. Its design and features will be inspired by the new hills. There will be no change in the engine setup.

Big touchscreen, hud-abas! Toyota Fortuner coming in a completely new avatar
New Delhi. Toyota Fortuner, first launched in 2009, has changed the premium SUV segment in India. This 7-seater SUV has been constantly appreciated for its off-road capabilities, powerful engines, road presence and strong design, premium interior and brand value. That is why for many years, the best-selling premium three-and SUVs have been maintained in India. Since its debut, Fortuner has received several small updates and a new generation upgrade. Its second-jen model was introduced in 2016, and now it is ready for another big upgrade.

Debut in 2026
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has not yet officially announced its launch timeline, but according to media reports, the new-Jen Toyota Fortuner can debut in 2026. The third-gene model of SUVs can probably take designs and features from All-New Toyota Hillux. Recently, the next-Jen Toyota Hils Trux's exterior and interior design sketches have been leaked on the web.

New Toyota Hilux Leaked

Better styling
The design and styling of the New-Jen Fortuner can be inspired by the new hills. The leaked sketches of the pickup trucks show its fully modified front face facing that includes a large grill, Ibro-Shapped LED DRL with new LED headlamps and an integrated radar module for ADAS. The new hills will also have newly designed alloy wheels and new LED taillights.

Fortuner - Toyota Indus

Upgraded cabin
The leaked interior images show a completely new dashboard and center console. Main atrocities are a large, free standing infotainment system (about 12–14 inches measuring) and a digital driver display (about 10 inch size). The pickup can also contain hud (head-up display), ventilated seats and many premium features. All these features are also expected to join the India-Spec new Toyota Fortuner.

No change in engine
In India, the new Toyota Fortuner is expected to maintain the existing engine setup which includes 201bhp, 2.8L Turbo Diesel and Neo Drive 48V Mild Hybrid. The existing transmission option is also likely to be used in the New-Jen model.

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Big touchscreen, hud-abas! Toyota Fortuner coming in a completely new avatar

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Big preparations for the festive season! More than 20 cars will be launched in the next 3 months, the market will be flooded with SUVs

Big preparations for the festive season! More than 20 cars will be launched in the next 3 months, the market will be flooded with SUVs

New Delhi. If you are planning to buy a new car, then this festive season is going to be very special for you. More than 20 new cars are going to be launched in the Indian market in the coming 3 months. New cars will be launched from Navratri to Christmas and will be introduced with updated models and features. According to the information, in this festive season, companies are ready to spend Rs 20 lakh crore in the auto industry. The price of the cars to be launched will be between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 2.25 crore.

Looking at the demand of the customers, the auto companies are focusing on the launch of SUVs and 7 seater vehicles. Mercedes, Kia and Volkswagen are bringing premium SUVs. 80% of these cars are from the SUV-MPV segment.

The trend of SUVs is getting stronger
Car buyers are always attracted to new features. This makes the customer decide to buy a car. Car manufacturers launch new cars taking advantage of this mindset of the customer. Currently, a strong trend of SUVs is being seen. Keeping this trend in mind, companies are also preparing to attract rich customers. The market is full of SUVs as compared to hatchbacks of the same size. Customers are liking cars with airbags, sunroof, infotainment and comfortable features more. It is expected that dealers will receive attractive bookings for cars before the festive season.

12% more discount than last year
Currently, car dealers have an inventory of about 75 days, which should normally be 30-45 days. Dealers have 7.8 lakh cars worth Rs 80 thousand crores ready to be sold. The cost of maintaining these cars in the showroom is increasing. If these cars are parked for a long time, the margin will reduce to 1%. Therefore, dealers are selling these cars by giving huge discounts.

According to global automotive and intelligence firm JATO Dynamics, the average discount of vehicle companies is 12% higher this year compared to last year. There is a discount of Rs 20 thousand to Rs 3.25 lakh on vehicles. In 2023, it was Rs 25 lakh to Rs 1 lakh, which was 40-45% higher than 2022. According to the data, the average discount on vehicles right now is Rs 38,816, which was Rs 34,630 in 2023.

Tags: Auto News, Car Discount Offers, Festive Offer

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