Last Updated on Dec 30, 2025 by Puneet S Bansal
The Kia Sorento is a globally popular mid-size SUV that sits above the Kia Seltos and Sportage in Kia’s international lineup. Known for its premium design, hybrid powertrains, and three-row practicality, the Sorento competes with SUVs like the Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Santa Fe in overseas markets.
While Kia Sorento is not currently launched in India, Indian SUV buyers are increasingly searching for it due to rising interest in hybrid SUVs, premium family vehicles, and global Kia models. This article breaks down everything Indian readers need to know — from features and specifications to expected pricing and India launch prospects.
Kia Sorento Price in India 2026 (Expected)
The Kia Sorento price in India in 2026 is expected to start from around ₹30–32 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base petrol variant, while the top diesel or hybrid variants could go up to ₹38–40 lakh. Kia is likely to position the Sorento as a premium SUV competing with Fortuner and Tucson.
| Variant | Expected Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| Kia Sorento Petrol | ₹30 – 32 lakh |
| Kia Sorento Diesel | ₹33 – 36 lakh |
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | ₹36 – 40 lakh |
Kia Sorento Design & Exterior
The latest-generation Sorento follows Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy.
Key exterior highlights:
- Bold tiger-nose grille
- LED projector headlamps with DRLs
- Muscular wheel arches
- 18–20 inch alloy wheels (variant-dependent)
- Connected LED tail lamps
The SUV looks more premium than rugged, making it suitable for urban India as well as highways.
Interior, Infotainment & Comfort
Inside, the Sorento feels close to a luxury SUV.
Interior highlights:
- Dual 12.3-inch digital displays
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated front seats
- Ambient lighting
- 3-row seating (6 & 7-seater layouts)
- Premium leather upholstery
The third row is usable for adults on short journeys, unlike many pseudo 7-seaters in India.
Kia Sorento Engine Options & Mileage
One of the biggest reasons Indian buyers are interested in Sorento is its hybrid lineup.
| Engine Type | Powertrain | Mileage (Global) |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 2.5L NA | ~11–12 km/l |
| Turbo Petrol | 2.5L Turbo | ~10 km/l |
| Hybrid | 1.6L Turbo + Electric | ~15–18 km/l |
| Plug-in Hybrid | 1.6L PHEV | Up to 50 km EV-only |
👉 Hybrid variants are most relevant for India, especially with rising fuel prices and stricter emission norms.
Kia Sorento Interior, Features & Safety
The Kia Sorento scores high on global safety benchmarks.
Key safety features:
- 6 to 8 airbags
- ADAS Level 2 (select variants)
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- 360-degree camera
This positions it above most mass-market SUVs currently sold in India.
Kia Sorento India Launch Date
Is Kia Sorento launching in India?
As of 2025, Kia India has not officially confirmed the Sorento’s launch.
Expected Price (If Launched):
- ₹35 lakh – ₹45 lakh (ex-showroom)
Possible Route:
- CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly
- Limited variants (Hybrid focus)
At this price, it would compete with:
- Toyota Fortuner
- Skoda Kodiaq
- Jeep Meridian
Kia Sorento vs Toyota Fortuner vs Hyundai Tucson
| Feature | Kia Sorento | Toyota Fortuner |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Petrol, Hybrid | Diesel, Petrol |
| Ride Comfort | More refined | Rugged |
| Technology | High-tech | Basic |
| Off-road | Moderate | Excellent |
| Urban Luxury | High | Medium |
Is Kia Sorento Worth Buying in India?
Yes — but selectively.
Indian buyers are:
- Moving towards hybrid SUVs
- Demanding tech-rich cabins
- Willing to pay for premium comfort
A Sorento Hybrid could fill the gap between mass-market SUVs and luxury brands like BMW or Audi.
FAQs: Kia Sorento India
1. Is Kia Sorento available in India?
No, Kia Sorento is not officially available in India as of 2026.
2. What is the expected Kia Sorento price in India?
If launched, it could be priced between ₹35–45 lakh (ex-showroom).
3. Is Kia Sorento a 7-seater?
Yes, the Sorento offers both 6 and 7-seater configurations globally.
4. Does Kia Sorento come in hybrid?
Yes, it is available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants internationally.
5. What mileage does Kia Sorento hybrid offer?
Globally, it delivers around 15–18 km/l in hybrid form.
6. Will Kia launch Sorento hybrid in India?
There is no official confirmation, but hybrid demand makes it a strong possibility.
Conclusion
The Kia Sorento represents what many Indian SUV buyers now want — premium design, hybrid efficiency, strong safety, and real 7-seat usability. While it’s not yet launched in India, growing demand for refined, fuel-efficient SUVs could push Kia to introduce it in the coming years.
For buyers seeking something above the Fortuner but below luxury SUVs, the Sorento could be a perfect fit.
If you’ve got any queries or suggestions, drop them in the comments below. You can also tweet to me at @PuneetsBansal or DM @PuneetsBansal on Instagram or Get In Touch.
