At its 2026 CEO Investor Day event, Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song confirmed that the Sonet and Carens Clavis will have hybrid powertrains in India by 2029. Additionally, the Korean carmaker also announced that it will introduce a locally developed B-segment electric SUV. “From 2027 onward, we will extend hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) offerings to key local models such as the Sonet, Carens and Seltos, while introducing a locally developed B-SUV EV,” said Song.
- Sonet and Carens Clavis hybrids to arrive on next-gen versions.
- Locally developed and made B-segment SUV to be all-electric.
- Carnival and Sorento hybrids to arrive this year.
Kia Sonet, Carens Clavis hybrid: Additional details
Kia’s most affordable model, the Sonet, is due for a next-generation update in 2027, and it will receive a hybrid powertrain by 2028 or 2029. Exact technical details are unknown at the moment, but the carmaker has been working on a strong-hybrid powertrain for the Sonet, as we previously reported.
The second-generation Sonet will move to the K1 platform, which underpins the Venue and Syros currently. This platform will not only be hybrid-compatible but also support the latest electrical and electronics (E&E) architecture, enabling over-the-air updates and remote diagnostics, while also addressing the lack of rear seat space in the current version.
The Kia Carens Clavis MPV will also get a hybrid powertrain in its next-generation version by 2029. Currently, the MPV is offered in naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol, diesel, and all-electric powertrains. However, it is expected to utilise the Seltos' hybrid setup, which is due in 2027. Our sources suggest that the Seltos hybrid is expected to be based on the existing 115hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine.
Kia B-segment electric SUV: Additional details
Previously, we reported that Kia has been evaluating a B-segment SUV, and we have now learnt that it will be electric. Secondly, the SUV will be developed and made locally. Specifications of this model are yet to be finalised. We expect this model to slot in between the Syros and Seltos, likely measuring around 4.2 metres in length. It will be Kia's contender in the growing midsize electric SUV space.
Kia Carnival hybrid: Additional details
Kia has also confirmed that the Carnival hybrid is set for a launch sometime this year. While exact technical details remain unknown, the global-spec Carnival strong-hybrid is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a hybrid system. It develops a combined output of 242hp and 367Nm, while power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
By 2030, the Korean carmaker plans to expand its lineup to ten models comprising ICE, hybrid and EV-powered models. Out of these, eight models will be electrified, Song stated.
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