In order to further increase sales, Kia India is planning to launch multiple new models in our market in the next few years. The company will also introduce an all-new electric SUV in our market by 2025. In this article, we talk about the 4 upcoming Kia Cars in our market in the next 1-2 years –
Kia Sonet CNG
Kia is testing the CNG version of the Sonet compact SUV on the Indian roads. It is reportedly to be launched sometime in the second quarter of 2023, after the introduction of the BSVI Phase 2. The Sonet CNG is expected to be offered with the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. It will be positioned against the likes of the Brezza CNG and the Nexon CNG. It is likely to cost around Rs 1 lakh more than the regular petrol version. The Sonet’s 1.0L turbo engine is good for 118bhp and 172Nm of torque. The CNG version is expected to offer lower power and torque compared to the regular model.
Kia Carens 5-Seater
Kia is reportedly working on a new base variant of the Carens MPV. The new base variant will also get a 5-seater model. Adding to it, Kia Carens will also receive a diesel iMT powertrain. The 5-seater Kia Carens is likely to be offered with naturally-aspirated petrol and diesel powertrains. The new base variants will make the Carens more accessible. It will be the only MPV in its category with an option of a 5-seat layout. This entry-level variant is likely to miss out on some features like leatherette seats and second-row folding armrest.
New Kia Seltos
The new Kia Seltos facelift is already on sale in select international markets including South Korea and the United States. The new model is expected to be launched in our market before the end of this year. It will come with design changes and upgraded cabin along with a new turbo petrol engine. The new model will also receive radar-based driver assistance systems with features such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, forward collision-avoidance system, automatic emergency braking, lane following assist, high beam assist and others. It will get a new 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 160bhp and 260Nm of torque. Other engine options will include a 115bhp, 1.5L naturally-aspirated petrol and a 115bhp, 1.5L diesel engine.
New-gen Carnival
Kia had showcased the new KA4 3-row MPV, essentially the new Carnival, at the 2023 Auto Expo. It is likely to be launched in our market in 2023 or 2024. The new model comes with a more SUV-like profile with angular surfaces & squared-off stance. It is 40mm longer, 10mm wider and has 30mm longer wheelbase compared to the current model. The new model will also come with advanced driver assistance systems. Based on the new-gen N3 platform, the new Kia Carnival will be offered with a 2.2-litre Smartstream turbo diesel engine. This engine is capable of producing 199bhp and 440Nm of torque.
