A new 7 seater SUV from Kia has been spotted testing in India and is most likely to be Kia Sorento. Here’s what we know so far.
Expected features in the Kia Sorento 7 Seater Hybrid:
The upcoming Kia Sorento, currently being tested in India and expected to launch in 2026, is poised to enter the premium three-row SUV segment with a strong feature set and hybrid powertrain options. Despite heavy camouflage on the test mule, key design elements like a boxy, upright stance, Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille, T-shaped LED DRLs, squared-off wheel arches, and 19-inch alloy wheels indicate a robust presence on the road. Inside, the Sorento is expected to feature a premium, tech-rich cabin with a panoramic curved screen setup comprising dual 12.3-inch digital displays and Kia’s latest ccNC infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with over-the-air software updates for connectivity enhancements. Comfort and luxury amenities likely include ventilated front seats, multi-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Bose 12-speaker audio system.
Visit The official Kia India website.
Safety will be enhanced by advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) at Level 2, including smart cruise control, lane-keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking, hill start assist, electronic stability control, and a 360-degree camera. The rotary dial gear selector spotted inside points to the hybrid variant, with a probable 1.6-liter turbo hybrid powertrain focusing on fuel efficiency and performance tailored for the Indian market. Seating will accommodate seven passengers with flexible configurations and premium materials to ensure spaciousness and comfort. The Sorento aims to rival established models like the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, and Skoda Kodiaq within a competitive price bracket of approximately Rs. 35 lakh to Rs. 45 lakh. Overall, the Sorento promises a sophisticated blend of technology, hybrid efficiency, spaciousness, and premium features designed to meet the evolving tastes of India’s premium SUV buyers.
Competition:
| Model | Engine Options | Seating Capacity | Key Features | Price Range (INR Lakhs) | Notable Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Sorento 2026 | 1.6L Turbo Hybrid (strong hybrid), petrol variants expected later | 7 | Dual 12.3” curved digital displays, Level 2 ADAS, ventilated seats, tri-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, Bose audio, connected car tech | 35-45 | Hybrid powertrain, tech-rich, premium cabin |
| Toyota Fortuner | 2.0L Diesel (2WD/4WD), mild-hybrid | 7 | Robust off-road capability, proven reliability, safety tech | 36-49 | Strong diesel engine, brand trust |
| MG Gloster | 2.0L Turbo Petrol/Diesel | 6-7 | Panoramic sunroof, ADAS, premium interiors | 33-45 | Spacious cabin, feature loaded |
| Skoda Kodiaq | 2.0L Turbo Petrol/Diesel | 7 | Premium interiors, virtual cockpit, ADAS | 36-48 | European build quality, refinement |
| Tata Hexa (Discontinued but potential replacement expected) | N/A | 7 | Known for rugged build and value | N/A | Popular for road presence and utility |
| Hyundai Alcazar | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 7 | Connected features, modern interiors | 17-22 | Value for money, urban appeal |
Upcoming Kia Seltos:
Read more About the upcoming Kia Seltos spied testing in India.
The upcoming 2026 Kia Seltos is expected to feature significant upgrades in design, technology, and powertrains that will enhance its appeal in the compact SUV segment. The Seltos will sport a bold, redesigned exterior with a sharper front grille, slim LED headlights, and a dual-tone theme that emphasizes its sporty character. Inside, the cabin will be more premium and tech-laden, featuring dual 10.25-inch panoramic displays combining a digital instrument cluster and infotainment system with voice recognition and connected car services via Kia Connect. Comfort will be boosted with ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The safety suite will be comprehensive with Level 2 ADAS, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. The powertrain options are anticipated to include a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and a more powerful 1.6-liter turbo petrol variant, with a smooth CVT or manual transmission paired with front- and all-wheel-drive options. Advanced convenience features like a smart power liftgate, Bose premium audio system, wireless charging, and 360-degree camera will also be part of the package. These enhancements make the 2026 Seltos a well-rounded, tech-forward compact SUV highly suited for urban and semi-urban buyers looking for style, safety, and connected features.
Stay tuned and follow up for more.