Kia is gearing up for a major launch event in India on October 3, 2024, where it will debut two highly anticipated models: the new Kia Carnival MPV and the all-electric Kia EV9 SUV. Both vehicles are expected to make a significant impact in the Indian market, with deliveries anticipated to start before Diwali.
Kia Carnival: A Premium Offering
The India-bound Kia Carnival is a facelifted version of the model previously showcased as the Kia KA4 at the last Auto Expo. Initially, it will be fully imported, with local assembly expected to begin later. The Carnival is expected to be priced starting at around ₹50 lakh, placing it in a unique position in the market with no direct competitors. The Toyota Innova Hycross is priced up to ₹30 lakh, while the Toyota Vellfire starts at ₹1.22 crore (ex-showroom).
The Carnival will likely be powered by a 2.2-liter diesel engine for the Indian market, though internationally, the model also offers a 1.6-liter turbo petrol hybrid and a 3.5-liter V6 petrol engine. Inside, the MPV is packed with luxurious features, including dual 12.3-inch displays, front and rear dash cameras, a head-up display, a digital rear-view mirror, an updated digital key with fingerprint recognition, and ambient lighting along the dashboard. The Carnival offers various seating configurations, ranging from 7 to 11 seats, although it remains to be seen which options will be available in India.
Kia EV9: A Flagship Electric SUV
The Kia EV9, set to become the most expensive Kia model in India, will also be fully imported and is expected to be priced above ₹1 crore (ex-showroom), positioning it as a rival to the BMW iX. This three-row electric SUV is built on Kia’s e-GMP flexible skateboard platform, which also underpins other electric models like the Kia EV6.
The EV9 features a bold, upright design with a distinctive two-box silhouette, echoing the design language of Kia’s newer global models like the EV3 and EV5. Internationally, the EV9 is available in three powertrain options: two single-motor rear-wheel-drive variants and one all-wheel-drive variant with a dual-motor setup.
With its premium pricing and advanced features, the EV9 is expected to attract a niche audience looking for a high-end, all-electric SUV.
Kia’s upcoming launches are set to elevate its presence in the Indian market, offering cutting-edge technology and luxury in both the Carnival MPV and EV9 SUV.
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