2021 Kia Sorento Engines Leaked: 2.2L Diesel, 1.6L Hybrid Turbo and 8-Speed DCT

According to this Excel sheet found by Sorento Club MQ4 and other leaks from the past, the Sorento is going to offer as many as six powertrains, though they're split almost evenly between the Asian, American and European markets.

Let's get America right out of the way because it's the easiest. There, the 2021 Sorento is going to offer a 2.5-liter GDI, so not the older 2.4-liter. This fresh powertrain should have a rating of about 195 hp and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm), sent via a six-speed auto to the front wheels or an optional AWD.

Later on, it will add a 2.0-liter turbo, maybe even a 2.5-liter if the performance Sorento GT makes financial sense. Over in South Korea, the 2.5-liter will sit alongside the 2.2-liter, which is supposedly from the "New R" family.

We don't have the full specs, but this powertrain might make exactly 200 hp and be offered with mild-hybrid tech in Europe. You can see it at the top of the Excel list being matched to an 8-speed DCT. Yes, a dual-clutch gearbox instead of a conventional automatic, and it's got more speeds than previous Kia boxes.

But the most interesting system mentioned is the "1.6 TCI/GDI" for the "MQ4 HEV." These jumbled letters confirm that the Sorento does indeed have a hybrid version, and it's powered by a much smaller engine than previously expected.

Now, Kia does offer a 1.6-liter hybrid drive on the Niro, but we're sure this is something completely different. We've heard stories about the Sorento Hybrid and PHEV both offering 220 horsepower from a small turbocharged engine and electric motor. The Eco models are expected to arrive in 2021 and will both offer a solar roof, just like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.