The highly anticipated Kia Sorento, a 7-seater SUV, is set to hit the Indian market on September 4, 2026. As we await its official launch, various teasers have confirmed that this new model will be available with both hybrid and diesel engine options. Notably, this will mark Kia’s introduction of a strong hybrid variant in India.
### Hybrid Engine
The Sorento will feature a 1.6-liter turbo-petrol engine combined with an electric motor, a compact battery, and a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup is expected to deliver a total output of 238 PS and 380 Nm of torque. However, Kia has yet to disclose the exact specifications for the version that will be available in India. Earlier reports indicated that the Sorento might also include a new 1.5-liter petrol hybrid engine, which will power the upcoming Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. However, this engine may not provide enough power for a three-row SUV.
### Diesel Engine
Kia has confirmed that the Sorento will be equipped with a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, which is the same engine used in the Kia Carnival. This powerful engine generates 202 PS and a peak torque of 441 Nm, and it is expected to come with an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
### Hybrid with AWD Setup
Excitingly, Kia will also offer an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option for the new Sorento. This will be Kia’s first internal combustion engine-powered SUV to include an AWD system. In international markets, the Sorento Hybrid features a mechanical AWD system and claims to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 196 km/h. Additionally, the SUV will offer various drive and terrain modes for enhanced versatility.
With all these features, the Kia Sorento is poised to make a remarkable entrance into the Indian automotive market.
