Bookings for the new Baleno have also started through Maruti Suzuki’s NEXA dealerships. The car continues to rival the Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20 in the premium hatchback space.

What has changed on the outside?

The Baleno does not get a completely new design, but there are enough updates to give it a different look. Most of the work can be seen around the front section.

The updated design includes:

• Larger front grille with black horizontal slats
• New sculpted front bumper
• Revised fog lamp housings
• Sleeker LED headlamp design
• New 16-inch alloy wheels
• Chrome detailing
• Shark-fin antenna
• Minor changes to the rear bumper and tail lamp area
• New Enigmatic Teal colour

The Baleno still measures 3,990mm in length and has a 2,520mm wheelbase. It also continues to stay below the four-metre mark, which helps it qualify for the lower tax structure applicable to small cars.

More features for the cabin

The cabin layout will look familiar to existing Baleno owners, but Maruti Suzuki has added several features to make the car more appealing.

The new equipment list includes a larger 10.1-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen on the updated model, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Clarion premium audio system is also available.Other cabin features include:

• Ventilated front seats
• Wireless charging with cooling
• Semi-leatherette upholstery
• Head-up display
• 360-degree camera
• Automatic climate control
• Rear AC vents
• Front centre armrest with storage
• Auto-dimming inside rear-view mirror
• Push-button start

The new Black and Blue interior theme with silver details also gives the cabin a fresh appearance.

Level 2 ADAS is the big addition

The biggest talking point is the addition of Level 2 ADAS. The Baleno is among the first hatchbacks in India to get this technology. The system uses a camera and millimetre-wave radar to monitor the road and assist the driver. The ADAS package includes:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assist
• Advanced emergency braking
• High-beam assist
• Other driver assistance functions

Maruti Suzuki has also provided six airbags as standard, along with ABS, EBD, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-hold assist and tyre pressure monitoring.

New three-cylinder petrol engine

The engine has also been replaced. The facelifted Baleno gets the 1.2-litre Z12E naturally aspirated petrol engine already used in the Swift and Dzire.

It is a three-cylinder unit, unlike the four-cylinder engine used by the earlier Baleno. The new motor is lighter and is designed to offer better efficiency and stronger low-speed response.

Transmission choices include:

• 5-speed manual
• AMT automatic

There is also a factory-fitted CNG version based on the same engine. The CNG Baleno can now be paired with an AMT, which is a new option for the model.

Price and rivals

The new Maruti Suzuki Baleno starts at Rs 6.10 lakh, ex-showroom. Prices for the higher variants are expected to be announced separately.

The hatchback continues to face competition from the Tata Altroz and Hyundai i20. With new technology, extra equipment and the updated engine range, the Baleno now has more features to offer buyers looking for a premium hatchback.

We got a closer look at the India-spec Sorento in our walkaround. There is plenty to see, from the large screens inside the cabin to the premium second row and the useful third row.

The Sorento is priced from Rs 27.99 lakh, going up to Rs 40.39 lakh (ex-showroom). It is offered in six- and seven-seat versions, depending on the variant.

A Big SUV With A Smart Design

The Sorento has a tall and upright shape, which gives it a strong road presence. The front gets Kia’s familiar Tiger Nose grille, along with vertically stacked projector headlamps. The exterior also gets:

• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Progressive turn indicators
• LED tail lamps
• Bridge-style roof rails
• Roof spoiler
• Hidden rear wiper
• LED fog lamps

The SUV measures 4,815mm long, with a 2,815mm wheelbase. It is 1,900mm wide and 1,785mm tall.

The Cabin Feels Properly Premium

Once we step inside, the twin-screen layout immediately catches attention. Higher variants get dual 12.3-inch displays, giving the dashboard a clean and modern appearance.

The equipment list includes:

• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Digital instrument cluster
• 12-speaker Bose sound system
• Powered and ventilated front seats
• Panoramic sunroof
• Wireless phone charger
• Smart powered tailgate
• Head-up display on higher variants

The top HTX version also gets a Digital Key, a digital inside rear-view mirror and front & rear dashcams.

Seating Configurations

Kia is offering two seating layouts. The six-seat model gets captain’s chairs in the second row, giving passengers more individual space. The seven-seat version uses a second-row bench.

We also get a closer look at the third row. It is an important part of the Sorento because buyers in this segment will want all three rows to be useful.

The higher variants also get ventilated second-row seats, adding extra comfort for passengers sitting behind the driver.

Two Engines For India

Kia has given the Sorento two powertrain choices.

The hybrid produces 265 Nm of torque according to Kia’s specifications. AWD is available with the higher HTX variants, adding more flexibility for buyers who want extra traction.

Plenty Of Technology

The Sorento gets a long list of convenience features. These include Kia Connect 2.0, over-the-air updates, remote parking assistance, a powered tailgate and a 220V inverter.

The top version also gets Kia’s Generative AI assistant, which can handle voice-based requests and conversations.

Safety Gets A Long Equipment List

Safety equipment varies by variant, but the Sorento can be equipped with up to 10 airbags and a large ADAS package. Key safety features include:

• Level 2+ ADAS
• Adaptive cruise control
• Autonomous emergency braking
• 360-degree camera
• Blind-view monitor
• Five radars
• Electronic stability control
• Multi-collision braking
• Hill-hold and hill-descent control
• ISOFIX mounts for the second and third rows

The HTX gets the most extensive safety package, with 10 airbags and up to 30 ADAS functions with the optional package.

Prices And Variants

The Sorento is sold in HTE, HTK and HTX trims. The entry-level HTE is offered as a seven-seater, while HTK and HTX can be specified with six or seven seats.

The range starts at Rs 27.99 lakh and reaches Rs 40.39 lakh for the top hybrid version.

Verdict

After spending time around the India-spec Sorento, we feel Kia has packed a lot into this SUV. The choice of diesel and hybrid engines, six- and seven-seat layouts, AWD and the long feature list give buyers plenty to consider.

The Sorento now enters a busy premium SUV space with names such as the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq and Mahindra XUV 7XO. Its biggest strength could be the combination of space, technology and powertrain choices.

The new version gets a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor. It will be sold alongside the existing diesel Carnival, giving buyers another option in the premium MPV segment.

Hybrid powertrain details

The petrol engine develops 180hp and 265Nm. The electric motor produces 73.4hp and 304Nm.

The electric motor is stronger than the unit used in the Sorento Hybrid. It makes 8.4hp and 40Nm more than the Sorento’s motor.

Kia has not shared the combined output of the complete hybrid system yet. The transmission is expected to be a six-speed torque-converter automatic, similar to the Sorento Hybrid.

Diesel version will continue

The Carnival will still be available with its 2.2-litre diesel engine. This motor makes 190hp and 441Nm and is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.

The hybrid version should appeal to buyers who want a petrol-based powertrain in a large luxury MPV.

Features and cabin

There are no major design changes expected for the hybrid version. Kia is likely to use the same premium cabin seen in the diesel Carnival. Some of its key equipment includes:

• Twin 12.3-inch screens
• Three-zone climate control
• 12-speaker Bose audio system
• Ventilated front seats
• Heated front seats
• Powered front seats
• Wireless smartphone connectivity

Safety equipment is also extensive. The Carnival gets eight airbags, Level 2 ADAS, a 360-degree camera and disc brakes on all four wheels.

Price could be higher

The current Carnival is sold in India only in the fully loaded Limousine Plus trim. It is priced at around Rs 59.65 lakh (ex-showroom).

Kia has not announced the hybrid’s price yet. It could cost more than the diesel version, especially considering the additional hybrid hardware. The final figure should be revealed closer to its launch.

More Kia hybrids are planned

The Carnival Hybrid is part of Kia India’s larger electrification plan. The company has announced plans for several electrified models in India, including hybrid versions of other popular cars.

The Sorento Hybrid has already joined the range, and the Carnival will be the next major hybrid addition. Kia is also expected to introduce hybrid technology on models such as the Sonet, Carens Clavis and Seltos over the next few years.

The 42 Bobber has always stood out because of its low stance and single floating-style seat. The All Stars version adds more visual appeal to this familiar design without making major changes to the mechanical package.

Jawa 42 Bobber All Stars: Price And Colours

The new motorcycle is available in five colour options, with prices varying slightly between them. The Mystic Copper is the most affordable, while the Black Mirror is the most expensive.

The Silver Knight version gets a chequered design inspired by both chess and motorcycle racing. Shadow Black has a matte-black finish that gives the motorcycle a darker look. The All Stars graphics and insignia are also part of the new styling.

334cc Engine With Six-Speed Gearbox

There is no big change to the engine. The motorcycle uses Jawa’s 334cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC petrol engine. Key figures include:

• Power: 29.9 PS at 7,500rpm
• Torque: 30.01 Nm at 5,500rpm
• Gearbox: 6-speed
• Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection
• Compression ratio: 11:1
• Engine layout: Single-cylinder
• Exhaust: Twin exhaust

The motorcycle uses a double-cradle frame. Suspension duties are handled by 35mm telescopic forks at the front and a gas-filled rear monoshock with seven-step preload adjustment.

Brakes, Wheels And Dimensions

The All Stars 42 Bobber gets disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS. The front disc measures 280mm, while the rear disc is 240mm. Here are the main dimensions:

• Kerb weight: 177kg
• Fuel tank: 12.5 litres
• Seat height: 740mm
• Ground clearance: 145mm
• Wheelbase: 1,485mm
• Front tyre: 100/90-18
• Rear tyre: 140/70 R17

The 740mm seat height should also make it easier for many riders to get their feet down.

Ownership Package

Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles is also offering its Ownership Assurance Program with the motorcycle. It includes:

• 4-year or 50,000km standard warranty
• Extended warranty for up to 6 years
• Roadside assistance for up to 8 years
• AMC options for up to 5 years
• Nationwide coverage

The All Stars 42 Bobber will be sold through Jawa Yezdi dealerships across India.

The motorcycle is also part of the wider Jawa All Stars range, which is built around character, conduct and courage. The launch at the Global Chess League gives the Bobber a clear connection with individuality and independent thinking.

Also read – Jawa 42 FJ Gets A Stunning New Makeover With 6 Colours From Rs 2.01 Lakh

The Himalayan name has been around for a decade. The first Himalayan 411 became popular with riders who wanted a simple motorcycle for long trips, bad roads and some off-road riding. The new 440 follows that basic recipe but gets a bigger engine and some useful updates.

A familiar adventure bike

The first thing we noticed during the walkaround is the size and shape of the motorcycle. It has a tall stance, a large front wheel and a simple body design. The main design bits include:

• Round LED headlamp
• High-mounted front mudguard
• Long fuel tank
• Spoke wheels
• Upswept exhaust
• Large rear carrier
• Adventure-style body panels

There are three colour options: Sela Black, Mustang Brown and Nelong White. The first batch also gets a special 10th anniversary badge on the fuel tank.

Engine and gearbox

The biggest mechanical change is the 443cc single-cylinder engine. It makes 26 PS at 6,250rpm and 34 Nm at 4,000rpm.

The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox. Royal Enfield has also worked on the gearbox ratios to make low-speed riding easier and highway cruising more relaxed.

Engine details –

The engine uses a long-stroke setup and Royal Enfield says NVH levels have also been improved.

Built for rough roads

The Himalayan 440 gets a 21-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel. This setup is useful on broken roads and trails.

The suspension hardware includes 41mm telescopic front forks with 200mm travel. At the rear, there is a linkage-type monoshock with 180mm travel. Ground clearance stands at 220mm, while the seat height is 800mm.

The motorcycle also gets:

• 300mm front disc with a two-piston calliper
• 240mm rear disc
• Dual-channel ABS
• Switchable rear ABS
• 15-litre fuel tank
• 199kg kerb weight
• 1,460mm wheelbase

The spoke wheels use tube-type tyres, with a 90/90-21 tyre at the front and a 120/90-17 tyre at the rear.

Simple cockpit

The cockpit has a different feel from the Himalayan 450. There is no large TFT screen here. Instead, the Himalayan 440 uses an analogue-digital instrument cluster with a separate Tripper navigation unit. There is also a USB Type-C charging port.

This makes the console easy to read without adding too much visual clutter.

Touring equipment

Royal Enfield is also offering several accessories for riders who plan to use the bike for longer trips. These include:

• Hard panniers
• Top box
• Touring seat
• Adventure handguards
• Engine guards
• Oil-cooler guard
• Luggage mounts

The motorcycle also gets a top box mount that can carry up to 7kg.

Price and warranty

The Royal Enfield Himalayan 440 costs Rs 2.29 lakh ex-showroom. Bookings opened on September 4, 2026, through dealerships and Royal Enfield’s online platform.

There is also a seven-year extended warranty package. It adds four years or 40,000km over the standard warranty, whichever comes first.

Verdict

After seeing the bike up close, the Himalayan 440 makes a strong case for riders who want a straightforward adventure motorcycle. It has useful hardware, a larger 443cc engine and a simple cockpit without going too far into electronics.

The price also puts it below the Himalayan 450, making the 440 an interesting option for riders who prefer the older Himalayan character with some modern updates.

The concept can use petrol, ethanol or a mix of both. Kia has not yet said when a production version will be sold in India. For now, the Syros Flex Fuel is a technology showcase.

What is different about the Syros Flex Fuel?

The biggest change is not the exterior design. Kia has worked on the engine and related systems so that the car can handle different fuel mixtures.

• Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol
• Fuel type: Petrol, ethanol and blends
• Gearbox: 6-speed automatic
• Engine type: Direct injection
• Power and torque: Not revealed

The engine uses an upgraded ECU, TCU and fuel system. These changes help it work with different levels of ethanol in the fuel.

The gearbox is also different from the regular turbo-petrol Syros. The standard model uses a 7-speed DCT, but this concept gets a 6-speed torque-converter automatic.

Kia Syros Flex Fuel: Key details

Made for different ethanol blends

The Syros Flex Fuel can run on pure petrol, pure ethanol and different combinations of the two. This is the main point of the concept.

Kia has modified the fuel system and electronic controls to make this possible. The company has also changed the transmission setup for this version.

Why ethanol matters in India

India has been working towards greater use of ethanol in vehicle fuel. Higher ethanol blends can help reduce the country’s dependence on imported crude oil.

Several carmakers have already shown interest in this technology.

• Maruti has showcased and launched its Wagon R flex-fuel model
• Toyota has demonstrated flex-fuel technology in India
• Hyundai showed a flex-fuel Creta at Auto Expo 2025
• Tata has said it plans to introduce its first flex-fuel car
• Mahindra is also working on flex-fuel technology

The government has also been working on standards for higher ethanol blends and E100-compatible vehicles.

A small engine with a different job

The 1.0-litre turbo engine makes the Syros a useful model for demonstrating the technology. Kia has not shared its power or torque figures for this version, so there is no performance comparison to make yet.

The main change is about fuel compatibility rather than chasing higher output.

The concept also shows that flex-fuel technology is moving beyond larger engines and experimental vehicles. A compact SUV like the Syros could make the technology more relevant to everyday users if Kia decides to produce it.

What happens next?

Kia has not announced a production timeline or confirmed the final specifications of the Syros Flex Fuel. That means details such as pricing, mileage and final engine output are still unknown.

For now, the concept gives a clear look at Kia’s work on ethanol-compatible powertrains. It also adds another mainstream carmaker to India’s growing flex-fuel push.

Both MPVs will use the familiar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The CNG system gets a 60-litre tank placed under the boot floor. Kia is expected to announce prices by the end of September or early October.

1.5-litre engine with CNG

Both MPVs will use the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a CNG system. On CNG, the engine makes 93hp and 123Nm.

The petrol version makes 115hp and 144Nm, so there is a drop in output when using CNG. Kia says the engine has been calibrated for usable performance in everyday driving.

The CNG models are expected to use a 6-speed manual gearbox. Kia has not confirmed an automatic option yet.

Boot space takes a hit

The 60-litre CNG tank is placed under the boot floor. This reduces luggage space from 216 litres in the petrol models to 116 litres in the CNG versions.

There is one useful point here. Kia has managed to keep the spare wheel below the vehicle. This means owners do not have to give up the spare wheel to make room for the CNG system.

The official mileage figure has not been released yet. Estimates suggest it could be around 22-25km/kg.

Suspension and brakes get changes

Kia has made a few mechanical changes to handle the extra weight of the CNG hardware.

• Suspension has been retuned
• Front disc brakes have been upgraded
• 16-inch wheels will be used on the CNG versions
• Spare wheel is still available underneath

These changes should help the MPVs handle the added weight of the CNG tank.

Which variants get CNG?

The CNG option will not be offered across the full range. For the Carens Clavis, CNG will be available on:

• HTE
• HTE (O)

The older Carens will get the CNG option on the Premium trim.

Kia enters the factory CNG market

Kia has previously offered a dealer-fitted CNG kit for the Carens in some places. The new versions are different because the CNG system will be fitted at the factory.

This should make the option more convenient for buyers who want lower fuel costs without going for an aftermarket conversion.

The CNG versions will add another choice to the Carens and Carens Clavis range, which already has petrol, turbo-petrol, diesel and electric options across the two MPVs.

Launch and price

Kia has not announced the prices of the Carens and Carens Clavis CNG yet. The Carens Clavis currently starts at Rs 11.27 lakh (ex-showroom), but the CNG versions are expected to cost more.

For buyers who drive long distances every month, the new CNG versions could be an interesting option. The final price, mileage and launch date will decide how strong the package is.

The motorcycle was launched at the Himalayan Basecamp event in Ladakh. It also marks 10 years of the Himalayan name. Prices start at Rs 2.29 lakh (ex-showroom).

Key highlights

The motorcycle is sold in a single variant. Buyers can choose from three colours, with no difference in price.

The first batch of motorcycles will also get a special 10-year anniversary badge on the fuel tank. Bookings have opened from September 4 through Royal Enfield dealerships and its website.

Bigger 443cc engine

The Himalayan 440 uses a 443cc long-stroke single-cylinder engine. It makes 25.4 bhp at 6,250rpm and 34Nm at 4,000rpm.

The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox. The extra gear should help during highway riding, as the engine can run at lower revs while cruising. Royal Enfield has also revised the gearing for better low-speed riding.

A useful detail is that 90 per cent of the peak torque is available from around 2,800rpm. This should help when riding slowly over rough surfaces or climbing.

Compared with the old Himalayan 411:

• Power rises from 24.5hp to 25.4hp
• Torque goes from 32Nm to 34Nm
• Engine capacity increases to 443cc
• A six-speed gearbox is used

Stronger chassis and better suspension

The Himalayan 440 has a strengthened frame and sub-frame. Royal Enfield has used a different grade of steel for the sub-frame, which increases its carrying ability.

The top box can carry up to 10kg, making the motorcycle more useful for touring with luggage.

Suspension duties are handled by 41mm telescopic front forks with 200mm travel. At the rear, there is a linkage-type monoshock with 180mm travel.

The motorcycle also gets:

• 21-inch front spoke wheel
• 17-inch rear spoke wheel
• 220mm ground clearance
• 800mm seat height
• Low centre of gravity

Unlike the Himalayan 450, the 440 uses tube-type tyres. This setup also helps keep the motorcycle closer to the character of the original Himalayan.

Brakes and equipment

Braking hardware includes a 300mm front disc with a two-piston floating caliper. The rear gets a 240mm disc. Dual-channel ABS is standard, and the rear ABS can be switched off when required for off-road riding.

The Himalayan 440 also gets a fairly simple instrument setup. It has a digital-analogue cluster and a separate Tripper navigation pod. Other features include:

• LED headlamp
• Google Maps-based Tripper navigation
• USB Type-C charging
• 15-litre fuel tank
• Disc brakes at both ends
• Dual-channel ABS

Built for longer rides

The riding position is upright and the 800mm seat height should make it easier for shorter riders to manage the motorcycle. The 15-litre fuel tank is useful for longer trips.

Royal Enfield also offers accessories for the motorcycle. These include hard panniers, a top box, touring seats, adventure handguards, engine guards and tapered mirrors.

The company has also announced a seven-year extended warranty package across its motorcycle range. The standard warranty is three years or 30,000km, with the extended package adding four more years or 40,000km, whichever comes first.

Himalayan 440: Simple idea, updated hardware

The Himalayan 440 does not try to turn the original adventure bike into a complicated machine. It takes the familiar shape, riding position and basic layout and adds a bigger engine, six gears and stronger hardware.

Only 50 units are being brought to India, with deliveries expected to begin next week. For buyers looking for a fast sedan that can also work as a practical family car, the Octavia RS continues to be an interesting option.

A run limited sedan with a powerful engine

The car uses a 2.0-litre TSI turbo-petrol engine that produces 265 PS and 370 Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels through a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox.

The performance package also includes sports suspension, progressive steering and a sports exhaust. The sedan can reach 100 kmph from a standstill in just 6.4 seconds.

A Proper RS Look

The Octavia RS does not look like a regular Octavia with a bigger engine. Skoda has given it several visual changes to match its performance. Key exterior features include:

• Matrix LED headlights
• LED tail-lamps with dynamic indicators
• Black exterior details
• 19-inch Elias alloy wheels
• 225/40 R19 tyres
• RS-specific styling

There are three paint options available:

• Mamba Green
• Velvet Red
• Magic Black

The liftback design is also useful for everyday use. It offers 600 litres of boot space, which grows to 1,555 litres when the rear seats are folded.

More Than Just A Fast Car

Step inside and the sporty theme continues. The cabin gets black upholstery with red detailing and sports seats at the front. The front seats come with electric adjustment, memory, heating and massage functions. Other equipment includes:

• 13-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• 10.25-inch digital driver display
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Three-zone automatic climate control
• 11-speaker Canton audio system with subwoofer
• Wireless phone charging
• Electric tailgate
• Head-up display

So, despite its performance focus, the Octavia RS does not feel stripped down.

Safety And Driver Assistance

It’s a Skoda, so safety has to be paramount, and the Octavia RS is no exception. The sedan gets a wide range of safety and driver-assistance features, including:

• 10 airbags
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane assist
• Autonomous emergency braking
• 360-degree Area View camera
• Intelligent Park Assist
• ISOFIX mounts

This equipment makes the Octavia RS suitable for more than just weekend drives.

Only 50 Cars This Time

The limited availability is one of the biggest talking points. Skoda is bringing only 50 units in this batch, and the previous lot was sold out quickly. The ownership package includes:

• 4-year/1,00,000km warranty
• 4 years of roadside assistance
• Four labour-free services

The Octavia RS also has a special place in Skoda’s history in India. The first performance version came here in 2004, followed by the Laura RS, Octavia RS 230 and RS 245.

The latest car is the most powerful Octavia performance model sold in India so far. Its return also comes in the Octavia’s 30th anniversary year, while the RS badge itself has been used for more than five decades.

The Sorento brings something different to Kia’s SUV range. Buyers can pick between a strong-hybrid petrol engine and a diesel motor. There is also an AWD option on higher variants. With a long list of features and plenty of space, the Sorento sits above the Seltos and below the Carnival in Kia’s lineup.

Kia Sorento Price And Variants

The SUV is sold in HTE, HTE(O), HTK and HTX trims. Black Line versions are also available on selected variants.

Two Engine Choices

Kia has given the Sorento two very different powertrain options. The petrol version uses a 1.6-litre turbo engine with strong-hybrid technology. It makes a combined 238PS and 380Nm and gets a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The diesel version uses a 2.2-litre turbocharged engine. It develops 202PS and 441Nm and is paired with an 8-speed DCT.

Powertrain details

1.6-litre turbo petrol hybrid

• 238PS and 380Nm
• 6-speed automatic gearbox

2.2-litre turbo diesel

• 202PS and 441Nm
• 8-speed DCT
• FWD and AWD options available

The hybrid powertrain is one of the interesting parts of the new SUV, as Kia is offering strong-hybrid technology with an AWD option.

A Big SUV With A Bold Look

The Sorento measures 4,815mm long, 1,900mm wide and 1,785mm tall. It has a 2,815mm wheelbase.

The front gets Kia’s Tiger Nose grille along with vertically stacked LED headlamps and Y-shaped DRLs. The SUV also gets roof rails, black body cladding and 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels on higher versions.

At the rear, the vertical LED tail lamps continue the design theme. A roof spoiler, rear wiper and dual exhaust outlets are also present.

Kia offers the SUV in several colours, including white, grey, blue, black, green, silver and red.

Cabin Gets Plenty Of Equipment

There is a lot happening inside the Sorento. Higher versions get two 12.3-inch screens for the driver and infotainment system. The cabin can also be specified with black-and-grey or black-and-brown themes.

Some of the main features include:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument display
• 12.3-inch infotainment screen
• Panoramic sunroof
• 12-speaker Bose audio system
• Ventilated front seats
• Ventilated second-row seats on higher variants
• 10-way powered driver’s seat
• Head-up display
• Powered tailgate
• Wireless phone charger
• Ambient lighting
• Digital key
• Kia Connect 2.0
• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

The SUV also gets Kia’s generative AI voice assistant. It lets occupants use natural voice commands for different functions and information.

Six Or Seven Seats

There are two seating layouts to choose from. The 7-seater gets a regular second-row bench, giving space for one more passenger.

The 6-seater has captain seats in the second row. This version should be more comfortable for passengers who spend more time in the middle row.

Boot space stands at 179 litres with all three rows being used. Folding the rear seats increases the available space to as much as 1,996 litres.

Safety Equipment

Safety equipment changes with the variant. The HTE gets seven airbags and a 26-feature safety package. Higher versions can get up to 10 airbags.

The top variants also offer Level 2+ ADAS with up to 30 features. Other equipment includes surround-view monitoring, blind-view monitoring, front and rear dashcams and remote parking assistance.

ISOFIX mounts are available for the second and third rows, which will be useful for families with young children.

Sorento Rivals

The Kia Sorento enters a busy premium SUV space. Its rivals include the Toyota Fortuner, MG Majestor, Skoda Kodiaq, Jeep Meridian and Volkswagen Tayron.

The combination of a hybrid engine, diesel option, six or seven seats and AWD gives buyers plenty of choices.