The Kia Sorento, a popular three-row SUV sold globally, has been spotted testing in India for the first time. This confirms Kia’s plans to develop a new India-focused three-row SUV based on the Sorento, internally known as MQ4i. Expected to arrive by 2027, it will go up against the Mahindra XUV700 and Tata Safari.
Exterior Highlights
Despite full camouflage, the test mule reveals key design cues similar to the global Sorento:
- Vertical LED headlamps with slim DRLs
- Front camera and parking sensors
- 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with 235/55 tyres
- Flush door handles and silver roof rails
- Split LED tail-lamps at the rear
Globally, the Sorento measures 4,815mm long, 1,900mm wide and 1,700mm tall, placing it firmly in the premium three-row SUV segment.
Interior and Features
A glimpse of the cabin confirms a rotary gear selector and a premium, global-spec layout. Expected features include:
- Dual 12.3-inch screens
- Panoramic sunroof
- Ventilated and powered front seats
- 360-degree camera
- Head-up display
- Connected car suite
With Kia’s feature-heavy approach, the Sorento is expected to arrive fully loaded.
Hybrid Powertrain Direction
Globally, the SUV comes with turbo-hybrid, plug-in hybrid and diesel options. For India, Kia is developing a new 1.5-litre naturally aspirated strong-hybrid engine, which will also power the next-gen Seltos. This positions the Sorento squarely for India’s rising hybrid SUV market.
Expected Timeline
Slated for a 2027 debut, the Sorento will sit above the Carens and introduce Kia into the premium hybrid three-row SUV category. A Hyundai sibling model will follow, sharing the same platform.
check out:Kia Sorento 3-Row SUV Spied Testing in India for the First Time – Hybrid Launch Expected by 2027
