GaadiWaadi –
Kia Sorento Hybrid uses a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine working in tandem with a 44.2 kW electric motor and a 1.5 kWh battery pack
A new three-row SUV from Kia has slipped back into the test cycle on Indian roads and this time the details are far more revealing. The long glasshouse and the upright tail section confirm that Kia is preparing a proper seven-seater in the premium space and it will be positioned above the Seltos in the brand’s domestic portfolio.
What really caught the eye though was the wheel design – the dual-tone 19-inch alloys look almost identical to the ones offered on the Sorento Hybrid sold overseas, instantly fuelling speculation that the brand may finally be readying the Sorento for an India launch next year. The global Sorento Hybrid recently went through a major refresh not too long ago.
Some of its signature cues seem to have made their way onto the Indian prototype. Abroad, the SUV wears sharper lighting signatures including a redesigned LED treatment at both ends and the brand’s Star Map-style DRLs. It also brought in new exterior shades such as Interstellar Grey, Mineral Blue, Cityscape Green and even a sand-like tone while inside, a new Dust Blue theme was added as an option.
Also Read: All-New Kia Seltos To Be Revealed On December 10 – Key Details
The electrified version is also distinguished by its own set of 19-inch wheels – a detail that mirrors what has been spotted here in India. Inside the cabin, the international-spec Sorento Hybrid prioritises screen real estate. Base trims feature a wide panel that houses a 4.3-inch multi-information display linked to a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Higher variants go a step further with a sweeping curved panel that merges two 12.3-inch displays into one continuous unit and it will more likely make it to India.
It runs Kia’s latest ccNC software which brings quicker responses, enhanced graphics and the ability to receive over-the-air feature updates depending on the trim. The global model also packs in wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay right from the entry-level variant along with multiple USB-C ports that are scattered across all three rows. Premium elements like ventilated seats, a suede-finished roof liner and the Advanced Digital Key 2.0 system are reserved for the top SX-P grade.
Also Read: All-New Kia Telluride Revealed With Big Changes Inside & Out
It remains to be seen how Hyundai configures the India-bound model or just the top-spec variant will be made available. Under the skin, the Sorento Hybrid uses a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine working in tandem with a 44.2 kW electric motor and a 1.5 kWh battery pack. Together, the system outputs 227 hp and 250 Nm and sends power through a six-speed automatic gearbox. Front-wheel drive is standard in most trims internationally, while all-wheel drive is either optional or standard depending on the variant.
Despite the size and weight, the model delivers impressive fuel efficiency with the EPA rating the FWD versions at 15.1 kmpl combined approximately. Features like machine-learning-based Smart Cruise Control which studies and mirrors the driver’s style and the latest iteration of Highway Driving Assist, capable of aiding lane changes under the right conditions are also part of the package. Upon arrival, we can expect the Sorento hybrid to take on Jeep Meridian, Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, MG Gloster and the likes.
Image Source
The post New 7-Seater Kia Hybrid SUV Spotted Testing In India, Launch Next Year? appeared first on Gaadiwaadi.com – Latest Car & Bike News by Surendhar M.