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Kia reveals India-spec Sorento, begins production at Anantapur ahead of September 4 launch; hybrid gets AWD, AI assistant

Kia has unveiled the India-spec Sorento, set to launch on September 4, featuring a hybrid variant with all-wheel drive and an AI assistant. Production has commenced at the Anantapur facility, with competitive pricing expected between ₹30 lakh-35 lakh, marking Kia's first hybrid and ICE-powered three-row SUV in India.

Autocar India Autocar India+1 source20 August 2026 · 19:14 UTC
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Kia has officially revealed the India-spec Sorento, a significant addition to its lineup, ahead of its launch on September 4. The new model will be Kia's flagship ICE-powered SUV in India, featuring three rows of seating and available in both strong-hybrid and diesel variants.1

The hybrid variant will be equipped with an all-wheel drive (AWD) system, making it unique in its segment. The hybrid powertrain includes a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder strong-hybrid unit that produces 238hp and 380Nm of torque, while the diesel variant features a 2.0-litre engine delivering 202hp and 441Nm of torque.

Production has commenced at Kia's Anantapur facility in Andhra Pradesh, with the first unit rolling off the line. The company anticipates competitive pricing between ₹30 lakh-35 lakh (ex-showroom) due to high levels of localisation. Pre-bookings for the SUV began earlier this month, and official pricing will be announced on the launch date.4

The Sorento will compete with models like the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, and Jeep Meridian. Notably, it will debut with a Kia AI assistant, a first for the Sorento globally, enhancing the user experience.

On the design front, the Sorento features a Carnival-inspired headlamp design, dual-tone alloy wheels, and a modern interior equipped with a 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, and an ADAS suite.8

Key Insight
“The Sorento marks Kia's first hybrid and first ICE-powered three-row SUV in India, with the hybrid producing 238hp and 380Nm. Expected pricing is ₹30-35 lakh, competing with the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, and Jeep Meridian.”
CuriousCats studied:
1
Autocar IndiaAutocar India
“has officially revealed the India-spec ahead of its launch on September 4. It will be the Korean brand’s new flagship ICE-powered model with three rows of seating and will be offered with strong-hybrid and diesel powertrains.”
Autocar India →
2
CarWaleCarWale
“Kia India has officially revealed the India-spec hybrid SUV ahead of its price reveal slated for 4 September.”
CarWale →
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