Kia has a barrage of new products lined up for India over the next couple of years, including the Sorento, Seltos and Carnival hybrids as well as the next-generation Sonet. However, despite the expansive line-up, there will still be a couple of key gaps in the carmaker’s India portfolio.
Specifically speaking, given Kia’s pricing and positioning strategy, there exists a gap between the Syros and the Seltos, and going forward, there will be a space to fill between the Seltos and the Sorento as well. Our sources have indicated that Kia is looking to address these exact gaps with two additional models that could launch by 2028-29.
New Kia B-segment model: What to expect?
The new-gen Seltos, priced between Rs 10.99 lakh and Rs 21.82 lakh, has moved a notch up on the premiumness ladder, leaving a sizeable space between itself and the Syros, which ranges from Rs 8.42 lakh to Rs 15 lakh. Kia is looking at a two-pronged strategy to tackle the midsize SUV segment, much like Hyundai will do with the Creta and the upcoming Bayon-based SUV.
This upcoming B-segment model is expected to slot in the sweet spot between the Syros and the Seltos, likely measuring around 4.2 metres in length. It is not yet clear what exactly the body style of this upcoming model will be, but Kia could be leaning towards an SUV given the market’s preference. It will give Kia another offering above the sub-four-metre Syros without significantly overlapping with the Seltos. While the powertrain strategy is still being firmed up, the model is likely to be introduced as an EV.
New Kia C-segment model: What to expect?
When the Sorento arrives later this year, it is expected to be priced in the range of Rs 30 lakh to Rs 35 lakh (ex-showroom), meaning there will be a sizeable gap between the Seltos and Sorento. This is likely to be filled by a new C-segment model positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Alcazar and other three-row SUVs. This, too, is expected to come with a diverse range of powertrain options, including electrified ones. The company has yet to decide whether this model will take the form of an SUV or an MPV.
While the B-segment model is all but confirmed, Kia is still understood to be studying the feasibility of the C-segment model and is yet to make a final call on it.
Kia has previously confirmed that it plans to expand its local portfolio to 10 models by 2030, and these two upcoming offerings will be a crucial part of the puzzle. In fact, sources say the carmaker is even considering setting up another assembly line at its plant to address the production of these upcoming models. These vehicles are expected to give Kia a much more complete line-up as it looks to solidify its place among the top five carmakers in India.
With inputs from Ketan Thakkar
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Dipan Sur
Dhruv Dhaka
