Kia is preparing to enter India’s premium three-row SUV segment with the new Sorento, and the upcoming 7-seater SUV has now received an important update. Kia has confirmed that the India-spec Sorento will be available with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup. The SUV is scheduled to be launched in India on September 4, 2026.
The AWD system could make the Sorento a more capable option for buyers looking for a premium family SUV that can handle different road and terrain conditions. Internationally, the Sorento is available with AWD depending on the powertrain and market. For India, Kia is expected to offer the AWD system with at least selected variants.
The new Sorento will be positioned above the Carens in Kia’s Indian portfolio and will arrive as a more premium 7-seater SUV. With its three-row layout, the model is expected to compete with SUVs such as the Mahindra XUV 7XO, Tata Safari and other premium three-row offerings.
Kia Sorento AWD and Engine Options
The India-spec Kia Sorento is expected to be offered with both a strong-hybrid petrol engine and a diesel powertrain. The hybrid version is likely to use a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol strong-hybrid system paired with a 6-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. The global-spec setup produces around 238hp and 380Nm of combined output.
A 2.2-litre diesel engine is also expected for India. This engine is already used by Kia in the Carnival and develops around 202hp and 440Nm, with power sent through an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The AWD system could be offered with both engines, although Kia is yet to confirm the exact India-spec variant and powertrain combinations.
The SUV could also get multiple terrain modes, including Snow, Mud and Sand. These modes, combined with AWD, should improve traction when driving on slippery surfaces or uneven terrain.
Premium Cabin and Technology
The Sorento is expected to feature a premium cabin with a three-row seating layout and a technology-focused dashboard. Kia has also confirmed the availability of its Live Ten AI-powered voice assistant for the India-spec model. The global model gets features such as large digital displays, connected-car technology and advanced driver assistance systems.
With the launch now scheduled for September 4, more details about the Sorento’s variants, features and pricing are expected to be announced closer to the launch. The AWD setup will be one of the key highlights as Kia looks to establish the Sorento as a capable and premium 7-seater SUV in India.
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