The Kia Sorento, a well-known three-row SUV sold across Europe, North America, Latin America and the Middle East, has been spotted on Indian roads for the first time. This sighting strongly indicates that Kia is preparing its next major product for India: a three-row hybrid SUV based on the Sorento, internally codenamed MQ4i. This upcoming model will compete directly with the Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari when it launches around 2027.
Exterior Design Revealed Through Spy Shots
Despite the heavy camouflage, several exterior elements of the Sorento test mule are identifiable. At the front, the SUV features vertically stacked LED headlights similar to the global model, topped with a slim LED daytime running light. Although the bumper and grille remain covered, front parking sensors and a front camera are clearly visible.
The global Sorento is offered with radar-based ADAS, and while the spied Indian test mule did not display a visible radar module, it is likely to receive full ADAS Level 2 features at launch — especially since the smaller Seltos already offers it.
From the side, the Sorento rides on 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels wrapped in 235/55 tyres. Flush door handles and silver roof rails further confirm its premium, global-spec design. At the rear, split LED tail-lamps peek through the camouflage along with rear sensors.
In overseas markets, the Sorento measures 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width and 1,700mm in height, riding on a 2,815mm wheelbase — dimensions that place it directly in the full-size, three-row SUV space.
Interior Details: Premium and Feature Rich
A partial look inside reveals a rotary dial gear selector on the centre console, flanked by switches for the electronic parking brake and drive-related controls. This layout closely matches the global Sorento’s interior.
The India-spec version is expected to feature:
– Dual 12.3-inch screens
– Panoramic sunroof
– Ventilated and powered front seats
– Rear privacy glass modes
– 360-degree camera
– Head-up display
– Connected car tech
Given Kia’s feature-rich product strategy, the Sorento is expected to arrive with a fully loaded equipment list.
Hybrid Powertrain Strategy for India
The global Sorento is offered with multiple powertrain options — including a 238hp 1.6 turbo-hybrid, a 288hp 1.6 plug-in hybrid and a 2.2 diesel hybrid.
However, for India, Kia is expected to debut an all-new 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol hybrid engine that will also power the next-generation Seltos. This hybrid-first approach aligns with India’s rapidly growing demand for efficient strong-hybrid SUVs.
Expected Launch Timeline
The India-spec Sorento will sit above the Carens in Kia’s lineup and is expected to debut in 2027. A Hyundai sibling based on the same platform will follow.
With its global styling, strong-hybrid tech and premium cabin, the Sorento will play a key role in Kia’s strategy to move into higher SUV segments.