Kia India will launch the new Kia Sorento in India on September 4, 2026, expanding its presence in the premium three-row SUV segment. The company has confirmed all-wheel drive (AWD) and its Live Gen AI in-car assistant for the upcoming SUV.
The Sorento will become Kia India’s flagship internal-combustion-engine SUV and will sit above the Seltos in the company’s Indian portfolio. It is expected to compete with premium three-row SUVs including the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, Jeep Meridian and Toyota Fortuner.
Kia Sorento AWD Confirmed
AWD is one of the key technologies confirmed for the India-spec Sorento. According to recent reports, the SUV will be Kia India’s first ICE-powered model to offer all-wheel drive. The system is expected to improve traction in wet conditions and on loose or challenging surfaces.
Kia has also confirmed Live Gen AI, an AI-powered voice assistant designed to provide a more conversational interaction with occupants. The technology is expected to allow users to communicate with the vehicle using natural-language commands and access supported connected-car functions.
Hybrid Powertrain Expected
The Sorento is widely expected to be offered with a strong-hybrid petrol powertrain in India. International versions of the SUV are available with different powertrains depending on the market, including hybrid and diesel options. However, Kia has yet to disclose the complete India-spec engine, transmission and output details.
The strong-hybrid version would mark an important addition to Kia’s Indian portfolio as the company expands into the electrified premium SUV market. The final combination of hybrid technology and AWD will be confirmed closer to the launch.
Premium Three-Row SUV
The Sorento is a larger SUV than the Seltos and is designed around a three-row cabin. India is expected to get six-seat and seven-seat configurations, although Kia has not yet announced the final variant structure.
Expected equipment includes large digital displays, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, connected-car technology and advanced driver-assistance features. Final equipment will depend on the India-spec variants.
Expected Price and Competition
Market estimates currently place the Kia Sorento in the ₹30 lakh to ₹40 lakh ex-showroom range, but Kia has not announced an official price. The final pricing, powertrain choices and localisation strategy will determine how strongly the SUV competes in India’s premium three-row segment.
With its confirmed AWD system and Live Gen AI technology, the Sorento is positioned to offer a technology-focused alternative to established premium SUVs. Kia is expected to reveal the remaining India-specific details when the SUV officially launches on September 4, 2026.
