Kia is expanding its SUV portfolio in India with the launch of the Sorento, a premium three-row SUV with multiple powertrain and drivetrain options. The Sorento is a value-added offering that can be purchased by a family with a huge family SUV with a lot of comfort and all-weather capabilities. With diesel and strong hybrid engine options and all-wheel drive, the Sorento is a versatile option in the premium SUV category.
The Kia Sorento is priced at Rs 27.99 lakh while the range extends to Rs 40.39 lakh ex-showroom. One of the strengths of the launch is the AWD for diesel and strong-hybrid powertrains. That can give buyers a better choice. The SUV also has two kinds of seating configurations with six seats and captain chairs or a seven-seat and bench-style second row.
Under the bonnet of the Kia Sorento is a combination of two engine options. The first is a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol strong-hybrid powertrain. The petrol engine generates 180hp and 265Nm, while the electric motor produces 65hp and 264Nm. The hybrid is teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission. And it’s designed to provide a balance between performance and efficiency, making it appeal to customers as well as the most electric consumers who want an electrified SUV but not to switch completely to an electric vehicle.
The second engine is a 2.2-litre diesel engine producing 193hp and 442Nm of torque. It runs with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. AWD is more versatile as customers will be driving on very rough roads, steep inclines or slippery roads.
Kia has also provided the Sorento with several driving modes. Normal, Eco, Sport and Smart drive modes are available on the SUV with the driver able to change the driving mode depending on the situation. There are also three terrain modes for snow, sand and mud. These modes are intended to improve traction and control for driving off the paved roads.
As for design, the Sorento has Kia’s new design language and a bold and fresh look. At the front is the brand’s signature Tiger Nose grille with a honeycomb pattern. The grille is surrounded by vertically arranged LED headlights and distinctive Y-shaped daytime running lights. The SUV also has 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels that give it a premium and muscular stance.
The rear design retains the contemporary styling theme as well with L-shaped wraparound taillights and dual exhaust tips. The overall design gives the Sorento a substantial road presence while maintaining the proportions expected from a premium three-row SUV. The new India-based model is based on the facelifted fourth-generation Sorento which was first introduced internationally in 2023.
The Sorento is very comfortable and technology-oriented inside the cabin. The choice of six-seat and seven-seat configurations allows customers to choose from them. The six-seat version has captain chairs in the second row and more individual space and a more premium treatment for passengers. The seven-seat one has a bench-style second row and is for families who want maximum passenger capacity.
The cabin has tan leatherette upholstery, while the front seats have 10-way power adjustment and ventilation. Second-row captain chairs in the six-seat version also get ventilation, adding to the premium character of the SUV. The well-designed and spacious interior and a good variety of seating options in the Sorento will be the main selling points for family-oriented customers.
Technology is also a big part of it. The dashboard has dual 12.3-inch displays, with separate screens handling the digital instrument cluster and infotainment functions. The SUV also has a touch-enabled climate control panel and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Kia even made the dashboard theme personal with the likes of Marvel, Pixar and Disney characters for the owners to customize it.
The Sorento also adds advanced connected and artificial intelligence-related technology. Kia says the model is the first Sorento globally to feature real-time generative AI. This technology will help increase the interaction between occupants and the vehicle and will offer a more sophisticated connected car experience.
The SUV is equipped with 10 airbags, a digital rear-view mirror and front and rear dashcams. Level 2+ advanced driver assistance systems exist on the Sorento as well. These are the systems that assist the driver in monitoring the environment and giving warnings or intervention when necessary.
The Kia Sorento is a good choice for the Indian market with diesel and strong-hybrid engines, FWD and AWD setup, six- and seven-seat configurations, premium cabin and advanced safety features. It is expected to be a premium three-row SUV in comparison to existing models including the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq and other upcoming premium SUVs.
The Sorento’s biggest advantage could be its wide range of choices. Long-distance touring consumers may prefer the diesel engine, while those for the strong hybrid version will find its electrification and efficiency more attractive. The AWD in both powertrains further enhances the SUV’s position.
Kia is betting that the Sorento's premium styling, spacious interiors, advanced technology and multiple powertrain choices will make it stand out in an increasingly competitive SUV market in India. When deliveries start and real-world reviews begin, customer response to its pricing, performance, efficiency and feature package will determine how strongly the Sorento establishes itself among India’s premium three-row SUVs.
