Top News

Automobile Desk: The competition in the premium SUV segment in the Indian automobile market is now going to become even more interesting. Vehicle manufacturer Kia is preparing to officially launch its new 7-seater SUV Kia Sorento in the country soon. Its prices will be announced on September 4, but just before that, this vehicle has been seen testing on Indian roads without any cover (camouflage). The pictures revealed without camouflage have revealed clear information about its exterior design, seating layout and many modern features.

Looking at the white colored unit seen on the road, it is being speculated that it could be its mid-variant. The DCT badging at the rear of the vehicle indicates that it will feature a dual-clutch automatic transmission. Talking about the exterior, its front has a combination of sharp LED headlights, attractive LED DRL and fog lamps. Apart from this, roof rails, high-mounted stop lamp and a large panoramic sunroof have been provided at the top, which makes its overall look quite sporty and premium.

As soon as you step inside the cabin, there is a feeling of modern technology and luxury. According to leaks and media reports, a large 30-inch curved display will be seen on its dashboard. This single frame display includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch fully digital driver console. The interior has been designed in a dual-tone theme, with features like digital AC control panel and ambient lighting which make the cabin ambiance quite spectacular at night.

To make driving safe and comfortable, Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology is being provided in this 7-seater SUV. Additionally, 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, wireless phone charger, rotary dial for gear change, push-button start-stop, cruise control and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity will also be available.

Talking about engine and power performance, Kia is going to provide an excellent balance of environment-friendly technology and powerful power in its new vehicle. It will be provided with a 1.6-litre capacity petrol-hybrid engine. Along with this, the option of turbo diesel engine is also likely to be offered to the customers. For transmission, it will have the option of both manual and automatic gearbox. The special thing is that Sorento will make its mark as the first all-wheel drive (AWD) hybrid SUV from Kia in the Indian market.

Talking about the price, the company will present it in the premium 7-seater SUV segment. Auto experts believe that the starting ex-showroom price of Kia Sorento can be kept around Rs 40 lakh. After the official launch on September 4, it will give tough competition to the already existing vehicles in the Indian market like Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster.