Kia Sorento hybrid AWD confirmed ahead of September 4 debut — Details here!

Kia India has released another teaser of the upcoming Sorento, confirming an important detail ahead of its launch on 4 September. The India-spec Sorento Hybrid will come with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Once launched, it will compete with the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron, MG Majestor and Jeep Meridian in the premium three-row SUV segment.

All-wheel drive confirmed for Kia Sorento Hybrid

The latest teaser carries the message: "A legacy that knows no borders. India is next. And it arrives with more than a celebrated name. Think intelligent conversations with Live Gen AI, the efficiency of hybrid power and the confidence of AWD." It is the first time Kia has officially confirmed that Indian buyers will get the Sorento Hybrid with AWD rather than the front-wheel-drive layout that is also sold in some overseas markets.

AWD can be useful for a large three-row SUV, especially for families who often travel on highways, wet roads or rougher surfaces. It helps send power to all four wheels, giving the SUV better grip when the road gets slippery or uneven. Along with the hybrid powertrain, the Sorento aims to offer better fuel efficiency without giving up the added traction of AWD.

Kia's first strong hybrid SUV in India

The upcoming Kia Sorento will be Kia India's first model with strong hybrid technology. It is expected to use a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid engine with a combined output of around 241 PS and 380 Nm. The engine is likely to come with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The hybrid setup should offer better fuel efficiency than a regular petrol SUV. Kia is also expected to offer a 2.2-litre diesel engine, likely borrowed from the Carnival. It produces 193 PS and 441 Nm and is expected to come with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Feature-rich cabin expected

Recent spy shots of the Sorento have revealed several features expected on the India-spec model. The SUV could get second-row captain seats, with both 6-seat and 7-seat layouts likely to be offered depending on the variant.

Other expected features include a curved panoramic display across the dashboard, Bose sound system, rotary gear selector, terrain mode selector, multi-adjustable front seats,  panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front and second-row seats. It could also get 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, TPMS, VSM, parking sensors, ABS, cruise control, and more.  

The Sorento is also expected to offer Level 2 ADAS, adding features such as driver assistance and safety alerts. Kia's latest teaser also mentions Live Gen AI, suggesting the SUV could get an AI-based voice assistant that allows drivers to interact with the car using simple voice commands.

Made in India, priced around Rs 40 lakh

Unlike some of Kia's other models, the Sorento is said to be manufactured in India instead of being imported. Local production could help Kia keep its pricing competitive. The SUV is expected to start at around Rs 40 lakh when it launches on 4 September. It will compete with other three-row petrol, diesel and hybrid SUVs. Its strong hybrid powertrain and AWD setup could help it stand out, as this combination is still uncommon in the segment.

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