After the successful launch of the new Seltos, Kia is gearing up for a major expansion of its Indian portfolio. The brand has begun testing two all-new SUVs on Indian roads — a premium 7-seater hybrid and a compact electric SUV. These upcoming models signal Kia’s serious intent to strengthen its presence in both the hybrid and EV segments. Together, the Kia Sorento 7-Seater and Syros EV are expected to arrive between 2026 and 2027.
Kia Sorento 7-Seater
The upcoming Kia Sorento will be a three-row SUV positioned above the Seltos. Internally codenamed MQ4i, this model is likely to be locally developed and will mark Kia’s first hybrid SUV in the Indian market. It will directly rival popular models such as the Mahindra XUV 7XO and Tata Safari.
While official launch timelines are yet to be announced, reports suggest the Sorento could debut by late 2026 or early 2027. Globally, the Sorento is offered with multiple hybrid powertrains, including a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid producing 238hp, a more powerful plug-in hybrid with 288hp, and a 2.2-litre diesel hybrid. Gearbox options include a 6-speed automatic, an 8-speed DCT, and all-wheel drive across variants.
For India, Kia may introduce a more cost-effective setup. There are strong indications of a 1.5-litre petrol hybrid under consideration, though the 1.6-litre hybrid seen on global models remains a strong possibility. With its space, technology, and efficiency, the Kia Sorento 7-Seater and Syros EV strategy clearly targets evolving buyer preferences.
Kia Syros EV
On the electric front, Kia is developing the Syros EV, expected to launch around June–July 2026. The compact electric SUV is likely to be priced between ₹14 lakh and ₹18 lakh, placing it in direct competition with the Tata Nexon EV, MG Windsor EV, and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV.
Design-wise, the Syros EV will closely resemble its ICE counterpart, with subtle EV-specific elements such as a blanked-off grille, distinctive brake calipers in NEO or Lime Green, and a front-fender-mounted charging port. Built on the K1 platform — shared with the Hyundai Ioniq EV — the Syros EV is expected to be front-wheel drive.
Battery options could include 42kWh and 49kWh packs, offering a claimed driving range of up to 400 km. With the Kia Sorento 7-Seater and Syros EV, Kia aims to cover both family-oriented hybrids and urban electric mobility.
What does this mean for Kia in India?
The arrival of the Kia Sorento 7-Seater and Syros EV highlights Kia’s long-term commitment to India, focusing on cleaner powertrains without compromising on performance or practicality. These launches could play a key role in shaping Kia’s future success in the country.
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