Upcoming Kia Cars in India: Sonet Facelift, EV9, and More

Kia is trying to increase its market share in India, and it is making good headway there so far. Popular models such as the Sonet, the Seltos, and the Carens are part of the South Korean automaker's product lineup in the Indian market. It also sold the Carnival sometime back, but the full-size MPV is no longer available for purchase. The manufacturer recently gave the Seltos a mid-cycle refresh that includes a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, a redesigned appearance, and an upgraded interior. Following that, it unveiled the 2024 iteration of the Sonet with a broader equipment list along with a few cosmetic changes. Now, the maker plans to roll out three new models in the domestic market in a single year which includes the much anticipated launch of the new Sonet in January. Read on to learn more about these upcoming Kia cars.

Also Read: 2024 Kia Sonet Facelift vs Hyundai Venue Spec Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

New Kia Sonet Facelift

Not too long after its global debut, reservations for the all-new Sonet were underway. The diesel manual variant returned to the market even though the three engine choices and the manual, iMT, and automatic transmission options are still available. With new features like a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, Level 1 ADAS, and slight cosmetic and interior adjustments, the Sonet is better suited for 2024 to compete with the Tata Nexon, the Hyundai Venue, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, the Nissan Magnite, and other compact SUVs. Depending on the model, the cost of the Sonet facelift could increase by Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 over its predecessor. 

New Kia Carnival

At Auto Expo 2023, the Kia KA4, which is effectively the fourth-generation Carnival MPV, was on display. It was larger than the previous model and had a more robust, SUV-inspired look. Spy photos showed that there are additional design cues from more recent Kia cars. Even while the 2024 Carnival has all the amenities and safety gear, its inside is more understated, with two 12.3-inch displays being the standout element. Anticipate the 2.2-litre, 198bhp diesel engine to remain. Although the MPV is available in 7-, 9-, and 11-seating arrangements internationally, it is unclear which of these would be introduced in our market. 

Kia EV9

The automaker launched the Kia EV9, its flagship electric vehicle, on a global scale this year. This three-row all-electric SUV has a variety of battery and electric motor choices, as well as the ability to select between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Depending on the engine option selected, the Kia EV9 is said to have a range of more than 541-kilometre. With a tonne of comfort and safety technology, it's an electric vehicle substitute for the premium Kia Telluride SUV that's offered globally. It is expected that Kia will use the completely built-up unit (CBU) route to deliver the EV9 to the Indian shores.

Also Read: 2024 Kia Sonet Facelift vs 2023 Tata Nexon Spec Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

Kia AY

Kia also intends to introduce a new SUV positioned between the Sonet and Seltos in an attempt to offer something different. Internally dubbed AY, it will be a completely new automobile. It might result in a tall-boy design similar to the Soul. It will also have an exterior style that sets it apart from the Sonet and Seltos: a rugged off-road look. There will be ICE and EV powertrain options for the AY. By 2025, Kia aims to introduce the AY, though it is unclear if it will release the EV or ICE version first. There will be a multitude of engine and transmission options available for the AY.