The Korean automaker, Kia has unveiled the new Sonet facelift in the Indian market. Scheduled to be launched in January 2024, the 2024 Kia Sonet comes with significantly revised styling and feature-loaded interior along with ADAS level 1 features. The company has confirmed that it is considering cars bigger than Seltos for the Indian market; however, specific details about the products are yet to be revealed.
On the sidelines of the Sonet debut event, Kia officials have confirmed that the much-awaited new gen Carnival MPV will be launched in the Indian market in 2024. For people not in the know, Kia had showcased the KA4 RV (Recreational Vehicle) concept at the 2023 Auto Expo. It is basically the new Carnival that is on sale in several international markets.
Adding to it, Kia will also launch the EV9 3-row electric SUV in our market in 2024. The new model is based on the skateboard architecture that underpins the EV6 on sale in our market. The Korean brand has also announced to launch the heavily localised mass segment electric vehicle in the country in 2025. Moreover, a brand new EV will be launched in our market every year till 2030.
The new-gen Kia Carnival comes with a fully revised front fascia, featuring an updated front grille with different patterns, a revised headlamp & tail-lamp setup. The MPV now has more SUV-like stance, which has new tailgate design, new bumpers and plastic cladding all around the body. The cabin now has a dual-screen setup with first screen is dedicated to the touchscreen infotainment unit and the second screen for the digital cluster.
The centre console has been redesigned, which now has touch-based buttons and a novel rotary knob for gear selection. The new Carnival will receive new seat upholstery, sourced from the EV9 model, along with an advanced ADAS suite. The ADAS tech will offer features like adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane assist, and blind spot monitoring, among others. The new model is expected to be powered by the same 2.2-litre diesel engine that produces 200bhp and 440Nm of torque. The transmission duties will be handled by an 8-speed ‘Sportsmatic’ automatic gearbox.
Kia will launch the EV9 flagship electric SUV in 2024. The 3-row SUV comes with multiple seating layout, depending on the variant. In the global markets, the Kia EV9 is available with 3 powertrain options. There are two battery options – a 76.1kWh and a 99.8kWh. While the former is offered with RWD standard version, the latter is available with both RWD long-range and AWD variants. The RWD long range model with rear axle mounted electric motor is rated at 150kW & 350Nm. There is a more powerful 160kW/350Nm, single electric motor option. The AWD version has two electric motors that offer 283kW & 600Nm. It is claimed to offer a certified range of 541km on a single charge.
