We informed you earlier that Kia will introduce an all-new entry-level SUV, which will be positioned below the Venue compact SUV. Rumoured to be called the Kia Clavis, the new SUV has been caught testing couple of times in the home market. A new set of spy images reveal some interesting details including the availability of ADAS tech and interior.
Kia Clavis Exterior Design Highlights
The spy images reveal that the new Clavis will have a more boxy styling compared to the Venue and the Seltos. It is more inspired from the Telluride, when it comes to overall shape. It has a more flatter nose and a flat roof with integrated roof rails. The SUV has big window glass areas for airy feel and stylish dual-tone alloy wheels. It also has flush-type door handles instead of conventional handles.
The front has the signature Kia grille and a broader lower air-dam, and bumper mounted LED headlamps. The spy images also confirm that the small SUV has front parking sensors and radar-based ADAS tech. The radar is clearly visible mounted on the air-dam. There is camera mounted on the front grille and on the ORVM, which confirms that the Kia Clavis will have 360 degree camera. The rear is heavily covered in thick cloth, which shows limited details about the styling. It is visible that the SUV has large glass area, and vertically positioned L-shaped LED tail-lights and lower placed brake lights.
Kia Clavis Interior Details
The dashboard of the new Kia Clavis was fully covered with thick black cloth, revealing nothing. We expect the small SUV to feature the Creta-like single screen for infotainment and instrument console. What are visible are the dual-tone leatherette seats with ventilated function. The button for the ventilated seats is placed right next to the interior door handles.
The SUV is equipped with segment-first Panoramic sunroof. The rear has single bench-type seat with adjustable headrests for the side occupants. It also has rear armrest, which can be used if two people are travelling in the second-row. The SUV has rear AC vents and phone charging sockets and 3-point seatbelts for all three passengers. The SUV has 360 degree camera and 12 parking sensors (6 in the front and 6 in the rear).
Specifications – Both ICE and Petrol
The Kia Clavis will be offered with both ICE and electric powertrain options. This model could be the brand’s first model to feature a hybrid powertrain; however, Kia is yet to announce on the same. The ICE version is likely to be offered with two powertrain options – a 1.2L NA petrol and a 1.0L turbo petrol. Both manual and automatic gearbox options are likely to be on offer.
The electric version is likely to be fitted with a battery pack of around 30-35kWh with a front-axle mounted electric motor. It is expected to offer a range of around 350km to 400km on a single charge.
Launch Timeline
The Kia Clavis is expected to be unveiled in India by the end of this year. The launch could take place in early 2025. A possible debut at the 2025 Auto Expo can’t be ignored. The petrol version will rival the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Nissan Magnite, Tata Punch and the Hyundai Exter. The EV will challenge the Tata Punch EV.
