Kia Motors, a well-known player in the Indian automotive market, plans to establish its presence in the country by introducing several new SUVs. With the recent launch of the highly acclaimed Seltos facelift, which is equipped with many advanced features, the company has already won the hearts of Indian consumers. Now, Kia is preparing for a significant expansion of its SUV lineup, with three new offerings expected in 2024. Let’s take a closer look at these upcoming models:
In the first quarter of 2024, Kia is set to launch the Sonet facelift, a sub-4-metre compact SUV, which has been extensively tested on Indian roads. Inspired by the success of the Seltos, the Sonet facelift will feature updated design elements. While it may not match the 17 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) features of the Seltos, it is expected to offer around 7-8 advanced driver assistance features. Like other Kia vehicles, this model will come with standard safety features, including six airbags, VSM (vehicle stability management), ABS (anti-lock braking system) with EBD (electronic brake distribution), ESC (electronic stability control), and HSM are included. (Hill Start Assist Control). Apart from this, it will also have TPM (Tire Pressure Monitoring) and front and rear parking sensors. The SUV will likely have a dual-screen setup on the dashboard, one for infotainment and the other for digital instrumentation, along with dashboard cameras and a 360-degree camera system. The existing engine lineup is expected to remain.
New Kia Carnival
Kia unveiled the new Carnival MPV at the 2023 Auto Expo, and now it is set to receive a mid-life facelift. The updated model will boast a refreshed look with a new chrome-studded grille, cleaner bumpers and faux brushed aluminum skid plate. Substantial updates will also be seen in the front fascia. Additionally, the new Carnival will feature connected LED light bars and new L-shaped headlamps and taillamps. This model will be equipped with features like dual sunroof, ADAS technology, collision mitigation assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane assist, high beam assist, adaptive cruise control and many more. Under the hood, it will continue to offer the 2.2-litre Smartstream turbo diesel engine, which produces 199 bhp of power and 440 Nm of torque.
Kia EV9 Electric SUV
Kia India is all set to launch its flagship electric SUV, the EV9 in 2024. The company had displayed this concept model at the 2023 Auto Expo. The EV9 will be Kia’s most expensive and largest electric SUV. Based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and featuring Kia’s fourth generation battery technology, it comes in a 3-row SUV variant with multiple seating configurations. The global market offers three powertrain options for the EV9, with two battery options – a 76.1 kWh and a 99.8 kWh. It is available in RWD standard, RWD long range with a second battery pack, and an AWD version. The RWD long-range model with a rear-mounted electric motor offers 150 kW and 350 Nm of output, while the AWD variant has two electric motors generating 283 kW and 600 Nm. The claimed range for this model is 541 kilometers per charge.