The South Korean automotive giant Kia is getting ready to expand its hybrid lineup in India with two new premium models. Of these the first will be launched on September 4, 2026. Following which the second model will be launching in a few months. What’s more interesting is that both of these models will be 7-seater hybrids. So without any delay here are the details of the upcoming Kia 7-seater hybrids.
The Sorento will soon become Kia India’s first hybrid SUV and will also become the brand’s first three-row ICE SUV in the country. The India-spec model has already been revealed and production has commenced at Kia’s Anantapur facility in Andhra Pradesh ahead of its September 4 launch. Pre-bookings have also commenced.
The biggest highlight of the Sorento will be its hybrid powertrain. Kia has confirmed that the SUV will be available with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder strong-hybrid engine. This engine will come paired with an electric motor. It will make 238 bhp and 380 Nm of torque and will come mated to an automatic transmission.
What makes the Sorento more interesting is that the hybrid version will get all-wheel drive (AWD). This combination of a strong-hybrid powertrain, three-row seating and AWD could make it one of the most unique options in the premium SUV segment.
The Sorento will also be available with a 2.0-litre diesel engine which will make 202 bhp and 441 Nm of torque. This engine will also be used in the Carnival and it will give buyers the option of choosing between a more efficient hybrid powertrain and a conventional diesel engine.
In terms of design, the Sorento will get a conventional premium SUV appearance. It will boast Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille, vertically positioned LED headlamps and T-shaped LED DRLs. The SUV will also get a wide front bumper, vertical aero vents, satin-finish elements and dual-tone alloy wheels that are expected to measure 19 inches.
The Sorento measures 4,815mm in length, 1,900mm in width and 1,700mm in height, with a 2,815mm wheelbase. It is expected to be offered with both 6- and 7-seat configurations which will make it suitable for buyers looking for a premium family SUV.
Moving inside, the Sorento gets a modern dashboard with twin connected screens, expected to measure 12.3 inches each. Other features expected on the SUV include ADAS, ventilated front seats, a digital IRVM, powered tailgate, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a 360-degree camera and panoramic sunroof.
The Sorento will also debut Kia’s Live Generative AI Assistant globally. Kia claims that the India-spec model will be the first Kia to get this technology, allowing more conversational interactions compared to conventional voice assistants. Kia is expected to position the Sorento competitively. Its expected price could be around Rs 30 to 35 lakh.
The second upcoming Kia hybrid is the Carnival Hybrid. Unlike the Sorento, the Carnival is a premium MPV that focuses more on passenger space and comfort than SUV-like driving characteristics. The current-generation Carnival is already sold in India with a 2.2-litre diesel engine.
Kia is expected to introduce the hybrid version using the same 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a parallel hybrid system that is available in international markets. Depending on market tuning internationally, the Carnival Hybrid produces around 242 bhp to 272 bhp and 367 Nm paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox.
However, unlike the Sorento Hybrid, the Carnival Hybrid is front-wheel drive. The Carnival’s biggest advantage will continue to be its spacious cabin. The premium 7-seat version will get VIP Lounge captain’s chairs in the second row, with features such as heating, ventilation, deep reclining, power leg rests and relaxation functions.
The cabin also gets dual 12.3-inch displays, along with features such as a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, passenger camera and intercom system.