New Delhi, July 30(APAC Media): Kia India has hinted at the launch of the Sorento SUV in the country through a teaser shared on its social media channels. Instead of revealing the vehicle, the company posted an image of Piazza Tasso in Sorrento, Italy, asking users to identify the location. The clue strongly points towards the arrival of the Kia Sorento, which is expected to become the brand’s first hybrid SUV in India.
The teaser comes weeks after Kia confirmed that it would introduce both a new electric vehicle and a hybrid model in India. While the Syros EV has already been unveiled, the latest teaser indicates that the Sorento hybrid could be the next product for the Indian market. Reports also suggest that a Kia dealership in Bengaluru has started accepting unofficial pre-bookings for the SUV.
The India-spec Sorento is expected to retain the global model’s design and dimensions. It is likely to feature Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille, LED lighting, dual 12.3-inch displays, panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera and six- or seven-seat layouts.
For India, Kia is expected to offer the Sorento with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol strong hybrid powertrain producing around 238hp and 380Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox.
A 2.2-litre diesel engine, already used in the Carnival, is also expected. Once launched, the Sorento will enter the premium SUV segment, competing with the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan. The teaser suggests Kia is preparing to expand its India portfolio with a hybrid offering as demand for electrified SUVs continues to grow.
