Kia will be launching not 1, 2, but 3 Cars in India to expand its presence in both EV and ICE Segments

Kia is gearing up to expand its lineup in India with three exciting new launches: the Kia Syros, an SUV designed to capture adventure enthusiasts; the updated Kia Carens, promising enhanced features and comfort for families; and the Kia Sonet EV, a compact electric SUV that combines practicality with sustainability. Each model aims to cater to different needs, showcasing Kia’s commitment to innovation and diversity in the Indian automotive market.

Kia Syros

Expected Launch: ICE – Jan 2025; EV – H2 2025

Kia’s unveiled the name of it’s upcoming new Compact SUV, Syros, which embodies Kia’s Opposites United design, features a bold exterior with a tall stance, upright hood, flush door handlesand aggressive grille. It stands out with diamond-cut 16-inch alloy wheels (17-inch optional) and measures likely more than 4 meters in length, offering more space than the Kia Sonet. Inside, it has seamless integrated dual 10.25-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a dual-tone dashboard, and a panoramic sunroof. Upholstery options could include full white or black leatherette.

Engine options include:

• 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol: 81.8 BHP, 115 NM, 6-speed MT
• 1.0L 3-cylinder turbo petrol: 118.35 BHP, 172 NM, 6-speed iMT or 7-speed DCT
• 1.5L 4-cylinder diesel: 113 BHP, 250 NM, 6-speed MT/iMT/AT

Features include an 8-speaker Bose sound system, ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, Level 2 ADAS (adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking), six airbags, electric parking brake, and one-touch window functionality. Additional features include drive modes, hill descent control, and a 360-degree camera.

Kia is expected to launch the Syros SUV between in Jan 2025 at the Bharat Mobility Expo, with the electric version arriving in 2nd half of 2025. Pricing of ICE is anticipated between Rs. 9 – Rs. 17 Lakhs.

Kia Carens

Expected Launch: ICE: H1 2025 EV: H2 2025

Kia has been testing the Carens in India, revealing some design details despite the camouflage. The Carens features alloy wheels similar to the upcoming Kia EV5, with a 5-spoke design for both the EV and ICE versions. The front has L-shaped LED DRLs, a thin LED light bar, and LED projectors, while the rear includes C-shaped connected LED tail-lamps and revised bumpers.

Interior features are expected to resemble the Seltos, including a 10.25-inch infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital cluster, updated controls, and an electric parking brake. Both the EV and ICE versions are likely to offer 6 and 7-seater options, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and new upholstery.

• Battery Specs: EV: 45-50 kWh battery pack, 450-500 km Range [Expected]
• Engine Specs [ICE]:
  • 1.5 L Diesel – 114 BHP, 250 NM – 6 Speed MT / IMT / AT
  • 1.5 L Turbo Petrol – 158 BHP, 253 NM – 6 Speed MT, 7 Speed DCT

Kia is expected to launch the Carens ICE in the 1st half of 2025, while the EV version sometime in 2nd half of 2025.

Kia Sonet EV

Expected Launch: H2 2025

Kia India currently offers two premium EVs, the EV6 and EV9, and is now preparing to enter the mass-market segment with models like the Kia Sonet EV, recently spotted testing in India. The camouflaged test mule, identified by its engine-less silence and lack of tailpipes, confirms its EV nature and shares the overall silhouette of the existing Sonet.

The Sonet EV is anticipated to launch by mid-2025, competing directly with models like the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400. It is expected to offer both standard and long-range variants, with a projected range around 450 km on a full charge. Design updates for the Kia Sonet EV may include a redesigned grille, exclusive alloy wheels, and unique color options, along with interior enhancements like an EV-specific user interface and added features like upgraded Level 2 ADAS, Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, Heads-up Display, etc.