2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid Spotted Testing In India; Possible Launch Hinting Soon

image source :motoroctane

The Kia Sorento Hybrid has been seen testing in India for the first time confirming that the brand is preparing this large three row SUV for a 2026 launch. The test vehicle, spotted inside a parking area, carried full camouflage but still revealed important details like its tall body shape, large wheels and even a rotary style gear selector inside the cabin

Kia Sorento Hybrid India Testing Shows Key Exterior Details

Even with the heavy covers the shape of the Sorento was easy to identify. The SUV is already sold in several countries, and the model spotted in India appears to follow the same design direction. The upright stance, boxy sides, wide rear end and tall glass area clearly show its proper seven-seat layout

One of the biggest takeaways from these spy shots is the presence of 235/55 R19 tires, which confirms that Kia will offer 19 inch alloy wheels for the India-spec version. The squared wheel arches, high bonnet line and flat tailgate give the Sorento a strong road presence, placing it above mid-size SUVs sold in India today

Covered portions on the bumpers and lighting sections also hint at hidden signature features such as:

• Vertical, T shaped LED DRLs
• Connected tail lamps
• A bold Tiger Nose front grille inspired by the US-spec facelift

Multiple sensor cutouts on the front bumper further point to the presence of Level 2 ADAS, which is expected to be available in India as well. Overall the exterior design looks modern but tough making it fit to compete with premium seven-seat SUVs when it arrives next year

Kia Sorento Hybrid Interior Revealed Through Spy Shots

A leaked cabin image shows a rotary gear selector which is usually offered with the hybrid versions of the Sorento in global markets. This confirms that the model spotted is the hybrid variant. Inside the India version is expected to offer a premium layout influenced by the international model

Global versions of the Sorento come with:

• A panoramic curved panel
• Dual 12.3 inch displays
• Kia’s new ccNC infotainment software
• Over the air updates
• Connected-car features

India is likely to receive most of these features

Kia may also include:

• Soft-touch materials across the cabin
• Ventilated front seats
• Multi-zone climate control
• Panoramic sunroof
• Ambient lighting
• A premium Bose audio system on higher trims
• Multiple USB ports for all three rows

Safety features may include smart cruise control, lane keeping assist and upgraded forward collision avoidance systems. With these inclusions the Sorento Hybrid is expected to offer one of the most comfortable and tech friendly cabins in its segment

Kia Sorento Hybrid Powertrain Options Expected For India

In international markets, the Sorento is available with several powertrains including:

• 2.5 liter petrol (191 hp)
• 2.5 liter turbo petrol (281 hp)
• Hybrid and plug in hybrid options based on a 1.6 liter turbo petrol engine

For India, Kia is likely to prioritize strong hybrid versions, considering the growing demand for fuel-efficient hybrid SUVs. A standard petrol engine may also be offered but a diesel variant seems unlikely at this stage

Kia Sorento Hybrid Pricing And Launch Timeline

When launched, the Sorento will be positioned as a premium SUV placed above the Seltos and Carens in Kia’s India lineup. It is expected to compete with:

• Toyota Fortuner
• Skoda Kodiaq
• MG Gloster

Prices are likely to fall in the Rs 35 lakh to Rs 45 lakh (ex showroom) range depending on the engine and variant

With testing already underway the Sorento Hybrid is expected to make its India debut toward the end of 2026. This launch will be an important step in Kia’s broader India plan as the company prepares for multiple new SUV introductions following the global reveal of the next-generation Seltos