New 7-Seater Kia Hybrid SUV Spotted Testing In India, Launch In 2026?

Kia’s New 7-Seater Hybrid SUV Spied in India: Sorento Hybrid Design and Powertrain Leaks

A new three-row SUV from Kia has been seen testing on Indian roads, and early signs suggest the brand is preparing to launch the Sorento Hybrid in India next year. The test vehicle shows a long glasshouse and an upright rear section, confirming that Kia is targeting the premium seven-seater SUV segment. This new model will sit above the Seltos in the company’s India lineup.

Sorento Hybrid Powertrain and Design Clues

One of the strongest hints that this SUV is the Sorento Hybrid is the design of the dual-tone 19-inch alloy wheels. These wheels look almost identical to the ones used on the international Sorento Hybrid, which points to Kia bringing the hybrid version to the Indian market.

The hybrid powertrain pairs a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 44.2 kW electric motor and a 1.5 kWh battery pack. Together, the system produces 227 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The power is sent through a six-speed automatic transmission. Internationally, the front-wheel drive model delivers a combined fuel efficiency of 15.1 kmpl.

The Indian prototype is expected to follow the updated global design theme. This includes sharper LED lighting elements and Kia’s Star Map-style daytime running lights. Global models also received new exterior colours such as Interstellar Grey, Mineral Blue, Cityscape Green and a sand-inspired shade. A Dust Blue interior option was also added globally, hinting that India may get similar choices.

Technology and Features

Kia is expected to offer a feature-rich cabin with a strong focus on technology. Higher variants may come with a curved display panel that merges two 12.3-inch screens into one wide layout. This setup runs Kia’s updated ccNC software, supports over-the-air feature updates and includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay from the base variant. Multiple USB-C ports are expected across all three rows to improve convenience for passengers.

Premium features from the global trims include ventilated seats, a suede-finished roof liner and the Advanced Digital Key 2.0 system. Safety and driver-assist features are also expected to be extensive, as the global Sorento offers Smart Cruise Control with machine-learning capability and the latest Highway Driving Assist, which can support lane changes on highways.

Author's Analysis:

Introducing a seven-seater hybrid SUV is an important step for Kia in India. The company is directly addressing the rising demand for fuel-efficient family SUVs. A model like the Sorento Hybrid will give Kia a strong presence above the Seltos and allow it to compete with the Jeep Meridian, Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq. The hybrid powertrain gives it a major advantage over diesel-only rivals by offering strong performance of 227 hp along with lower running costs. Buyers who want a three-row SUV with good efficiency and modern technology will find this model appealing. High-end features such as the dual 12.3-inch displays and advanced driver-assistance systems help position the Sorento as a premium and future-ready option in the Indian SUV segment.

Image Source: motoroctane