Exclusive: Kia Sorento Hybrid 7-Seater SUV Spied Testing Near Delhi; Rivals Toyota Fortuner

Kia India is preparing to enter the premium three-row SUV segment with the Sorento hybrid, which has been spied testing near Delhi for the first time. The heavily camouflaged test mule indicates that the 7-seater SUV is being evaluated on local roads and is likely to be launched in 2026, competing directly with the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, Hyundai Alcazar, and MG Gloster.

Kia Sorento: Design

The spy shots show a long, boxy SUV with a wide stance, upright silhouette, and vertical headlamp. All of these qualities with the global Sorento's latest design language. The vehicle is estimated to be around 4.8 metres in length, which should allow for proper three-row accommodation and a spacious cabin. In the international market, the SUV has a width of 1,900 mm and a height of 1,700 mm. It has a wheelbase of 2,815 mm.

The taillights of the SUV are also vertically oriented in sync with the international design language of the brand. Completing the design of the SUV are large 19-inch alloy wheels, further underlining its positioning as a premium SUV above the Seltos and Carens in Kia's India lineup.

Also Read: Citroen Basalt X Prices Increased By Up To Rs 40,000; Here's What It Costs Now

Kia Sorento: Powertrain, Positioning

The interior of the SUV was not revealed in the spy shots. However, based on previous sightings, this is likely the hybrid variant of the global Sorento, and a strong indication that the India-spec model will be a hybrid petrol.

Also Read: Mahindra Thar, Tractors Replaced By BE 6 EV In Punjabi Song - New Trend Incoming?

Industry reports suggest Kia will offer a 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain, making the Sorento the brand's first hybrid SUV in the country. In the global spec, this setup offers 238 hp with mild-hybrid support and 288 hp with plug-in hybrid. Transmission options include a six-speed automatic and an 8-speed DCT with AWD powertrain. This strategy also aligns with Kia's broader plan to introduce multiple hybrid models, including a hybrid-powered Carnival, in the coming years.

Market Segment And Pricing

When launched, the Kia Sorento is expected to be positioned as a premium three-row SUV with a starting price of around Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on variant and powertrain specification.

In this segment, its primary rivals will be models like the Toyota Fortuner, giving buyers a petrol-hybrid alternative to the traditionally diesel-dominated large SUV space. The launch of Sorento will likely coincide with Kia's wider push into the premium and hybrid vehicle segments.