Next-Gen 2026 Kia Sorento: Rumors, Concept, and Release Date. Just lately, Kia Motors added a new three-row model to its lineup of crossover SUVs, making it the company’s flagship vehicle. At the top of the Kia brand’s SUV lineup, the Sorento has been replaced by the all-new Kia Telluride, which is the largest Kia vehicle ever produced. While the sophisticated, well-riding, and quiet Sorento continues to be a significant part of the brand’s lineup, the new generation of the vehicle is now in the works.
The present model, which was released in 2015, will be replaced by the sixth-generation Kia Sorento, which will be the fifth-generation model. There have been multiple sightings of the prototype version of the brand-new Sorento, which is completely coated in camouflage. Based on these sightings, we are able to draw some inferences about the next version, despite the fact that many details are still missing.
What’s coming up?
In addition to being brand new from the ground up, the fifth-generation Sorento will be outfitted with the most cutting-edge technology and safety features. We anticipate that the interior will be more technologically advanced, and the style of the car will shift to a more appealing form. The present V-6 engine should be replaced with a turbocharged inline-four engine, and the model should also feature electrified powertrains at some time in the future.
2026 Kia Sorento Drivetrains and Engines
There is no information that has been leaked concerning the powertrain options that are available for the new 2026 Kia Sorento. It is anticipated that the new generation of the Sorento will, at some point in its life cycle, be able to incorporate both hybrid and plug-in hybrid configurations.
The model will be based on the same foundation as the Hyundai Santa Fe, and it may make use of the powertrains that are found in the Santa Fe. There is a possibility that the base engine will be a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with approximately 180 horsepower and an automated transmission with eight gears. The smaller turbocharged unit has the potential to take the place of the existing 3.3-liter V-6 engine that is available as an option and produces 290 horsepower. There is a possibility that the new Sorento will be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, similar to the one used in the Sane Fe. It is capable of producing 235 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.
All-wheel drive will be an available option for the Sorento, in addition to the basic front-wheel drive. It is anticipated that the new platform and updated powertrains will result in a decrease in fuel consumption compared to the previous iteration. When equipped with front-wheel drive, the current generation of the Sorento, which is powered by a V-6 engine, achieves 19 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway. When equipped with all-wheel drive, the Sorento achieves 24 miles per gallon on the highway.
A Redesign of the 2026 Kia Sorento
More or less camouflaged versions of the 2026 Kia Sorento have been seen on multiple occasions, and we are able to identify various styling tweaks, despite the fact that these modifications should be evolutionary in nature.
As far as the prototype version is concerned, it appears to have dimensions that are comparable to those of the present version, which is 187.4 inches in length and 74.4 inches broad.
In addition to having more defined body lines, the new Sorento ought to have a more fashionable appearance. An updated and broader version of the tiger-nose grille appears to be included in the front area of the car, which is believed to be comparable to the grille found on the new Telluride. A more upright appearance can be seen on the front end compared to the existing version, and the front bumper has also been redesigned. In addition, the creases on the hood of the model are more clearly defined.
As a result of the modifications made to the pillars and the flow of the roofline, the profile is also more elegant. Moreover, the beltline has been elevated, and it has been paired with fender flares that are more apparent.
A roof-mounted spoiler that is somewhat larger and a tailgate that is more contoured can be found on the back of the car. The taillights have also been updated with a new look.
Indoors, and the Equipment
As a result of the fact that the spy photographers have not captured the inside of the model on camera, we do not have a great deal of information regarding the cabin of the model.
Nevertheless, the model need to come with a more premium interior, as the sources suggest, and it ought to be equipped with the most recent technological and safety equipment. A more contemporary dashboard with a greater number of luxury touches and a larger touchscreen interface will be included in the fifth-generation Sorento, in addition to a new instrument cluster coming with the vehicle.
Read: The Upcoming 2026 GMC Yukon Redesign, Price, Specs
In addition, Kia will incorporate the most recent advancements in driver aid and safety technologies, and the new version will come with an increased amount of standard equipment. With the newly installed safety equipment, the model ought to be able to give a highway trip that is semi-autonomous.
It is possible that the new Sorento will revert to the five-seat arrangement, but it will also come standard with the three-row seat configuration.
When will the 2026 Kia Sorento be released?
It is possible that the revised Kia Sorento 2026 will divulge its secrets before the year comes to a close. Several sources assert that the production will begin in the month of August in the year 2026. In comparison to the existing Sorento, which can be purchased for a starting price of $27,650, the value of the new version is expected to be slightly higher.
The new Sorento will compete with crossover SUVs such as the Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Traverse, Toyota Highlander, and other hybrid vehicles that are of a comparable size and equipped with comparable features.
