Kia Motors Lanka unveils 2026 Sorento Hybrid and EV5

Pix by Pradeep Pathirana

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama

While adding two remarkable additions to the Kia family, Kia Motors Lanka yesterday launched the fifth-generation 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid and Kia EV5, marking a new era of hybrid and electric mobility in Sri Lanka.

The launch, held at an exclusive preview event in Colombo, represents Kia’s most significant product introduction since the lifting of vehicle import restrictions. The two new models highlight the brand’s transition from a traditional SUV manufacturer to a global leader in sustainable mobility and intelligent design.

Speaking at the launch, Kia Motors (Lanka) Chairman Mahen Thambiah said the two vehicles represent “the bridging of two worlds — Kia’s trusted legacy and its bold, electrified future.” He also announced plans to introduce three new hybrid and three new electric models in 2026, expanding the company’s eco-friendly lineup.

“The 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid, the fifth generation of the popular SUV, combines hybrid technology with a 1.6L petrol-hybrid powertrain, offering both 2WD and AWD options. It features a refined seven-seat interior, dual 12.3-inch digital displays, and advanced safety systems including Smart Cruise Control and Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist.

“Since the vehicle ban was lifted, we have worked to bring this product to Sri Lanka as quickly as possible, given the global demand for the Sorento. Customers who have been waiting for their Sorento will receive their vehicles according to the planned arrangements,” he added.

“The Sorento, which is the flagship of our range in Sri Lanka, will spearhead the brand’s technological improvements, and innovations will gradually filter down to the rest of the lineup,” the Chairman said.

“The initial launch of the Kia Sorento in Sri Lanka was in 2004. Over the years, the Sorento has evolved significantly. Today, the fifth generation incorporates all-new production technologies, enhanced comfort features, advanced safety systems, and driver aids — all in one package available to customers,” Chairman Thambiah added.

Alongside it, Kia unveiled the EV5, the brand’s first fully electric vehicle for Sri Lanka. Built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV5 offers up to 555 km range per charge in its long-range version and features Kia’s signature regenerative braking and I-Pedal driving system. The interior — crafted from sustainable materials — includes a panoramic dual-screen layout and advanced connectivity via the Kia Connect platform.

“The EV5 is more than an addition to our lineup; it is a statement of intent about the future of mobility,” Thambiah said, noting that the EV5 embodies Kia’s “Movement that Inspires” philosophy.

Both vehicles come with five-year or 150,000 km warranties, while the EV5’s battery carries an eight-year warranty.

Since 1996, Kia Motors Lanka has played a leading role in shaping Sri Lanka’s automotive industry. With the introduction of the Sorento Hybrid and EV5, the company aims to position itself at the forefront of the country’s transition to hybrid and electric transportation.

Addressing the event, President & CEO of Kia Asia Pacific Kevin Ahn said the company is investing heavily in design, technology, and autonomous driving to keep pace with global automotive revolutions. 

By 2031, Kia aims to introduce a full range of next-generation hybrid and electric vehicles across all segments, including SUVs and passenger cars.

“Our award-winning designs have already received international recognition. This launch symbolizes not only Kia’s long-term goals for Sri Lanka’s automotive industry but also our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and full automation in the future,” he added.