The South Korean automaker currently has three UVs in its Indian product portfolio including Kia Sonet, Kia Seltos and Kia Carnival MPV. In terms of sales, all models are really doing well for the carmaker. With an aim to increase its market share, the company is planning to expand its product lineup with a new compact MPV – codenamed Kia KY.
The model is currently in its testing phase and its production-ready version is reported to hit roads by March 2022. The new MPV will be put up against the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Mahindra Marazzo and the upcoming Hyundai compact MPV. Its top-end variants will take on the Toyota Innova Crysta.
Design and styling of the new Kia MPV (Kia KY) will be inspired by the Sonet and Seltos. Some of its design elements could be borrowed from the new global-spec Kia EV6. The spy images reveal that the MPV will have a larger rear door and glasshouse than the Seltos.
Sitting on a longer wheelbase, the KY is expected to offer “usable” third row seat with better legroom than other compact MPVs. It will carry the signature ‘Tiger’ nose grille with chrome accents, new alloy wheels, sharp shoulder lines and an upright rear. The new Kia MPV is likely to measure around 4.5 metres in length.
Reports suggest that the upcoming Kia KY MPV will share its engines and gearboxes with the Seltos. The latter comes with the 115hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 140hp, 1.4-litre turbo-petrol and 115hp, 1.5-litre diesel engine options. While the 1.4 turbo petrol unit can be had with a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed dual-clutch auto gearbox, the 1.5L petrol and diesel motors are available with the 6-speed iMT, CVT automatic and 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque convertor automatic transmission options.
More details on the upcoming new Kia MPV are likely to be revealed in near future. Stay tuned to IndiaCarNews.
Info Source, Spy Images’ Source Autospy.net
