New Delhi: The upcoming 2026 Kia Sorento has been spied testing in India for the very first time, strongly indicating the premium three-row SUV is being readied for a launch in 2026. The heavily camouflaged test mule was spotted inside a parking facility, revealing essential details such as large alloy wheels, its upright silhouette and even a rotary-style gear selector inside the cabin. This SUV will sit above the Seltos and Carens in the brand’s India portfolio, hinting at Kia’s plan to enter the premium family SUV segment next year. The Sorento’s shape clearly shows, already on sale in many countries, the latest Sorento features a boxy stance, vertical lighting elements hidden under covers, and a wide rear profile that confirms its proper three-row proportions.
The spy shots show the presence of 235/55 R19 tyres, which means that the India specification model will get large 19-inch alloy wheels. A leaked interior image also reveals a rotary dial gear selector. This is offered with the hybrid version of the Sorento in the international market, confirming that the variant spied is a hybrid. The squared-off wheel arches, tall bonnet, and flat tailgate hint at a strong road presence, while the covered section suggests that the signature elements like T-shaped LED DRLs, connected tail lamps, and bold Tiger Nose grille are similar to the US-specification facelift. Multiple sensor cutouts on the bumper further indicate the possibility of ADAS Level 2 features for India.
However, the Sorento brings a modern yet rugged design that places it above typical mid-size SUVs, preparing it to compete with more premium 7-seater offerings when it launches in 2026. The Kia Sorento is expected to offer a premium, feature-rich cabin similar to the global model, and the spy shots give the first major hint at a rotary gear selector, a clear sign of its upmarket positioning. The Sorento features a panoramic curved panel integrating dual 12.3-inch displays, and India is likely to get a similar setup along with Kia’s latest ccNC infotainment system, over-the-air updates, and connected car technology.
The three-row SUV is also expected to carry forward premium touches such as soft-touch materials, ventilated front seats, multi-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and a high-end Bose sound system on higher trims. ADAS features like intelligent cruise control, lane keeping assist, and enhanced forward collision avoidance are also likely to be offered. Combined with the spacious seating and multiple USB ports across all rows, the Sorento’s cabin is set to deliver a modern, comfortable and tech-loaded experience when it arrives in India. The Kia Sorento is sold with a wide range of powertrains, including a 2.5-litre petrol engine, a more powerful 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine, and a hybrid and plug-in hybrid setup using a 1.6-litre turbo engine.
For India, Kia is expected to prioritise strong hybrid variants, given the rapid shift toward hybrid SUVs in the market. A petrol-only option may also be offered, but a diesel version appears unlikely. When it is launched, the latest Kia Sorento will be positioned as a premium offering and is expected to rival the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, and MG Gloster. Prices are likely to fall in the Rs 35 lakh to Rs 45 lakh ex-showroom range, depending on variant and powertrain.
