Upcoming MPVs in India: Kia Carnival, Toyota MPV And More

The demand for Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) has grown significantly in India in recent years. MPVs, with their larger body size, have become popular among families who need more space and comfort. The increasing disposable income of the middle-class population and the need for a family vehicle are some of the major drivers of the demand for MPVs in India. Additionally, the availability of a wide range of MPV models at various price points has also contributed to the growth of the segment. The growing demand for MPVs has led to several carmakers entering the segment, with leading players such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Mahindra offering a range of MPV options. Shortly, several new MPVs will enter our market with new features for customers. Here's a short list comprising some of the top upcoming MPVs in India by leading carmakers. 

Nissan MPV

As reported earlier, Nissan India will launch two new SUVs, one new MPV, and an entirely new electric vehicle in India within the next two to three years. The MPV will have a CMF-A+ platform. Mechanically speaking, a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine could power the upcoming MPV by Nissan India. The Nissan MPV could also get a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a manual or CVT transmission option. There are no exact details available on the MPV yet, but reportedly it will have features and power specifications similar to the Renault Triber. 

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In terms of appearance, the upcoming Nissan MPV will receive several cosmetic upgrades over the current Triber. The MPV may get a new front grille in addition to reprofiled bumpers and new wheel covers. The cabin is expected to have a fresh theme and cloth upholstery. It will have a touchscreen infotainment system, air vents at the back, and several storage compartments. 

Maruti Suzuki's Innova Hycross-Based MPV

Maruti Suzuki will reportedly launch an MPV in India based on the Toyota Innova Hycross. The new MPV, according to reports, will be a luxury product by the leading carmaker for our market. It will reportedly have a front-wheel-drive monocoque TNGA-C chassis. On the mechanical front, it will likely get two engine options – a 2.0-litre petrol engine, which could produce 173bhp, and a 2.0-litre petrol unit with hybrid technology, which could generate 183bhp. Features-wise, it will be the first Maruti Suzuki model to be equipped with ADAS technology, including features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane assist, collision avoidance help, and autonomous emergency braking. 

Toyota MPV

Toyota, according to several industry reports, will launch a brand-new MPV in 2023. The new MPV will be a rebadged Ertiga MPV and will feature minor exterior styling modifications, like a new grille and a slightly modified rear profile. There is no confirmation by Toyota, but rumours suggest that the upcoming MPV will come equipped with the same 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder K15C Dualjet engine, available with the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, which produces 103bhp and 136Nm. A 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters, along with a 5-speed manual transmission, is available with the engine. 

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New-gen Kia Carnival 

Kia India is expected to launch the long-awaited Carnival in our market soon. The brand-new Kia Carnival was on display at the 2023 Auto Expo. It is available with three engine choices in international markets –  a 3.5-litre V6 MPi petrol, a new 2.2-litre Smartstream, and a 3.5-litre GDi V6 Smartstream. According to reports, a 2.2-litre diesel engine, producing 200bhp and 440Nm of torque, will be made available for our market. It will probably be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Dimensionally, the upcoming MPV will be 40mm longer than the standard model. The new-generation Carnival or KA4 will have a 10mm larger body and a 30mm longer wheelbase. There is no exact information yet but the model's starting price in India is expected to be Rs 30 lakh (ex-showroom), with higher variants demanding up to Rs 40 lakh (ex-showroom).