TATA Harrier EV
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Khyati Sharma 2026-08-21
Kia India is expanding its premium SUV portfolio with the upcoming Sorento, which will sit at the top of the company's internal-combustion SUV lineup in India. The three-row SUV is positioned above the Seltos and is expected to bridge the gap between Kia's existing mid-size SUVs and the larger Carnival.
Kia has already opened pre-bookings for the Sorento and recently revealed the India-spec model through official images and a television commercial. The SUV is scheduled to launch in India on September 4, 2026, and production has already commenced at Kia's Anantapur facility in Andhra Pradesh.
The Sorento adopts Kia's latest design language while retaining a rugged and muscular stance. The model featured in the TVC is finished in a dark matte-like shade, which complements its upright proportions and premium appearance.
At the front, the SUV features Kia's signature Tiger Nose grille, vertically stacked LED headlamps and Star Map LED daytime running lights. The headlamp arrangement is complemented by vertically positioned fog lamps, while the lower bumper incorporates aerodynamic elements designed to improve airflow.
The side profile looks particularly substantial, with functional roof rails, pronounced wheel arches and dual-tone alloy wheels. The strong shoulder line and muscular bodywork give the Sorento a distinctive road presence.
At the rear, Kia has opted for a relatively clean design with vertically positioned LED tail-lamps, a roof-mounted spoiler, powered tailgate and a muscular bumper with a skid plate.
One of the biggest highlights of the India-spec Sorento is its strong-hybrid powertrain, marking Kia India's entry into the hybrid SUV segment. The company has also confirmed that the Sorento will be available with all-wheel drive (AWD).
The global-spec hybrid uses a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of around 238 PS and 380 Nm. Kia is expected to adapt this setup for the Indian market, although final India-spec specifications will be announced closer to launch.
The Sorento will also be offered with a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine. Global specifications list around 202 PS and 441 Nm, while the India-spec output and transmission details are yet to be officially confirmed.
This combination of a strong hybrid, diesel and AWD gives the Sorento a differentiated position in India's premium three-row SUV market.
Inside, the Sorento gets a premium cabin designed around comfort, technology and practicality. The India-spec model features a three-row seating layout, making it suitable for larger families.
The dashboard is dominated by a wide panoramic display setup incorporating two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The cabin shown in the TVC also features beige leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof and a layered dashboard design.
Other expected equipment includes:
The Sorento is also expected to offer flexible seating and useful luggage space, allowing it to serve as a practical family SUV even when all three rows are in use.
Another major highlight of the India-spec Sorento is Kia's AI-powered assistant. The system is designed to provide real-time information and interact with occupants through voice-based commands.
Kia already offers AI-powered assistant functionality within its connected-car ecosystem, including voice recognition and real-time information services.
The inclusion of this technology gives the Sorento a more advanced digital experience and reinforces its position as Kia India's flagship SUV.
Unlike a fully imported premium SUV, the Sorento is being manufactured locally at Kia's Anantapur plant in Andhra Pradesh. Kia's India facility has an annual production capacity of around 300,000 vehicles and forms an important part of the company's manufacturing strategy.
Local production should also help Kia maintain greater control over pricing and positioning when the SUV goes on sale.
The Kia Sorento will officially launch in India on September 4, 2026. It will compete in the premium three-row SUV space against models such as the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron and Jeep Meridian, although its monocoque platform and hybrid powertrain give it a different character from traditional body-on-frame SUVs.
The Sorento's combination of three-row practicality, premium features, strong-hybrid technology, AWD capability and a diesel option could make it one of Kia India's most significant launches of 2026.
With local manufacturing already underway, attention will now turn to the final specifications, variant lineup and pricing ahead of its September launch
