Kia, the South Korean automaker, has an aggressive product strategy for the Indian market. The OEM plans to expand its portfolio with a range of ICE-powered models and EVs, along with updating its existing lineup. The new Kia Carnival and EV9 are all set to hit showrooms on the coming 3rd of October, 2024. The former will arrive in its updated, fourth-generation avatar with noticeable cosmetic changes and feature upgrades, while the latter will be the flagship model packed with numerous advanced features.
In 2025, Kia India will introduce the Carens facelift, which has been spotted multiple times during test runs. The compact MPV is likely to receive minimal changes inside and out, while retaining its existing powertrain setup. The South Korean automaker is also working on the Kia Carens EVwhich is estimated to be priced from Rs 25 lakh onwards next year. Specifications of the electric MPV are not available at this point in time.
The Kia Carens EV test mule was recently spotted testing, heavily camouflaged to conceal its design changes. The model is likely to feature a closed-off grille similar to that of the EV9, and some design elements such as the bumpers and alloy wheels could resemble those of the globally sold Kia EV3 and EV5.
The Kia Syros/Keywhich will be positioned against the Hyundai Exter, Tata Punch, and Maruti Fronx, will also arrive early next year. It’s expected to debut in its production-ready version by the end of 2024. Some of its key features will include a 10.25-inch infotainment unit and instrument cluster, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated and powered front seats, traction and drive modes, leatherette upholstery, and more.
Prices for the upcoming Syros subcompact SUV are expected to be slightly higher than the Sonet, which is currently available at a starting price of Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom). Kia India will also introduce the electric version of the Syros by mid-2025.
The Kia EV3which was unveiled in May 2024, will be introduced in Europe by the end of this year and in Asian markets by early 2025. There is no official word on its India launch, though it might make its way here sometime next year. Similar to the EV9, the EV3 will be based on the E-GMP modular platform and will follow Kia’s design language.
