India-Spec Kia Carnival 7-Seater MPV Launch In Early 2020
The Kia Carnival 7-seater MPV will directly rival the Toyota Innova Crysta.
Kia is all set to launch its first new model for the Indian market in the mid-2019. Based on the SP2i concept, the 5-seater premium SUV will be positioned against the Hyundai Creta and Nissan Kicks. The company has already started setting up dealerships and the first outlet has been opened in Noida, Delhi NCR. Post SP2i, Kia will bring its global MPV – Carnival – in India. The India-spec model is expected to be unveiled at the 2020 Delhi Auto Expo, while launch is likely in March 2020.
The Kia Carnival MPV will be launched as a premium alternative to the segment-leader Toyota Innova Crysta. This premium MPV is larger than the Crysta and will be loaded with several segment-leading features. It will come as a CKD (Completely Knocked-Down Kit) unit and will be assembled at the company’s new Andhra Pradesh based facility. The Kia Carnival is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 22 lakh – Rs 28 lakh.
The India-spec Kia Carnival premium MPV engine specifications and dimensions will be slightly different than the Innova Crysta. Details of the India-spec model have already been revealed to dealers and Kia’s internal team. It measures 5,155mm in length, 1,985mm in width and 1,740mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,060mm. While the global-spec model is offered in 4 seating layouts – 7-seat, 8-seat, 9-seat and 11-seat, the India-spec model will be made available in 7-seat configuration with captain seats for the second row.
In the international markets, the Carnival MPV is available in petrol and diesel guise. For the Indian market, the 7-seater premium MPV will be powered by a 2.2-litre E-VGT diesel engine that will be compatible with BSVI emission norms. This powertrain is capable of producing 199bhp of maximum power at 3,800rpm and a peak torque of 441Nm between 1,750-2,750rpm. Its direct rival Innova Crysta is being offered in petrol and diesel guise.
Not just Carnival MPV, Kia will also launch a crossover-hatchback in India in 2020. This model will be based on the Rio hatchback and will go on sale in the second half of 2020. Adding to it, the Korean automaker is also working on a sub-4 meter SUV. The concept version of the small SUV could debut at the 2020 Auto Expo.
Video – Kia Trazor Preview
