Key highlights
- Kia Sorento’s body shell was spotted loaded on a truck
- Sorento is likely to be launched in India next year
- It will most likely be offered with a hybrid engine
Kia is working on its new expansion strategy in India. This began with the new-gen Seltos, and it will soon be followed by newer models, including the Sorento mid-size SUV, which is a popular SUV in the global market. Check out the details about it below.
Also read: Upcoming BYD plug-in hybrid SUV teased in India, launch soon
What to expect from the Kia Sorento in India?
The Sorento is a mid-size crossover SUV, which is equivalent to the Hyundai Tucson in the international market. Kia has already been testing it in India, and now the latest images of a bodyshell loaded on a truck have surfaced online.
Let us explain what it means. First, the bodyshell seen here is in a Body-in-White or BIW stage. This means that the doors, bonnet, and boot have been fitted to the exoskeleton of the SUV, and the car is in its first stage of production.
Now, how did it end up here? Well, there could be many possible reasons. One, it could be a production test prototype shell, which Kia is using to test its CKD production line. Second, it could be a prototype meant for testing or learning purposes.
The side profile of the bodyshell shows that the Indian-spec Sorento, if it is one of those, would look nearly the same as the international spec. Which is a good thing, because the global spec model comes with the latest design language, which includes a mix of sharp LED lights and ‘Opposites United’ philosophy.
Dimensionally, the Sorento is more or less similar to the Tucson, measuring 4.8 metres in length, and has a wheelbase of 2.18 metres. On the inside, it packs a spacious cabin for five adults, including the design elements like the trinity display, a three-spoke steering wheel, wireless connectivity, dual-zone AC, panoramic sunroof, reclining rear seats, electric front seats with ventilation and heating, ADAS, and more.
While the global model is offered with a wide range of engine options, including a 2.0-litre petrol motor, we strongly believe that the Indian-spec model will be offered in the hybrid guise. Hence, it could use the 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid engine, which is offered with a 13.8 kWh battery pack, developing 216 bhp, and delivering a pure electric range of 55 km.
Kia will first launch the new-gen Sonet, and the Sorento is likely to follow it in 2027.
