Upcoming Kia Cars in India 2025-2026: Carnival, EV9 & More

Introduction

Kia India has established itself as a formidable player in the competitive Indian automotive market in a relatively short time, thanks to its strategy of offering feature-rich, well-designed vehicles that resonate strongly with Indian consumers. As we look toward 2025-2026, Kia is preparing to strengthen its position further with an ambitious product offensive that spans multiple segments—from premium people-movers to cutting-edge electric vehicles and refreshed versions of its current best-sellers. Each upcoming launch reflects Kia’s understanding of evolving Indian consumer preferences while maintaining the brand’s core values of design innovation, technological advancement, and value proposition.

This comprehensive overview examines Kia’s planned vehicle launches for the Indian market in 2025-2026, analyzing how each model fits into the brand’s broader strategy and what it offers to potential buyers. We’ll explore the redesigned Carnival MPV that aims to redefine premium family transportation, the groundbreaking EV9 that represents Kia’s electric ambitions, updates to popular existing models, and potential new entrants that could expand Kia’s reach into previously untapped segments. For current Kia owners and prospective buyers alike, this guide provides valuable insights into what to expect from the brand in the coming years.

Kia’s India Strategy 2025-2026: An Overview

Kia’s approach to the Indian market has been notably strategic since its entry, and the 2025-2026 plan reveals several key focus areas:

Electric Vehicle Expansion: With the global shift toward electrification, Kia is committing significant resources to introduce advanced EV models tailored for Indian conditions and preferences.

Premium Segment Strengthening: Having established a strong presence in the mass-premium segments, Kia is now targeting the upper premium space with more sophisticated offerings.

Best-Seller Refreshes: Recognizing the importance of its current successful models, Kia will introduce timely updates to keep the Seltos, Sonet, and Carens competitive against new rivals.

Localization Enhancement: Continued focus on increasing local content to improve cost competitiveness and align with government manufacturing initiatives.

Connected Car Technology: Further development of Kia Connect and integration of advanced connectivity features across the lineup.

1. Kia Carnival 2025 – The Premium People Mover Redefined
Expected Launch: Q2 2025
Expected Price: ₹35 – ₹45 Lakh (ex-showroom)
Positioning: Premium MPV offering luxury limousine-like experience

The next-generation Carnival represents Kia’s ambition to dominate the premium people-mover segment in India. While the current model has found success among luxury hotel chains and affluent families, the 2025 version aims to broaden its appeal with more sophisticated design, enhanced comfort features, and advanced technology.

Design and Styling:

The new Carnival evolves Kia’s design language with a more upright, confident stance that bridges SUV and MPV aesthetics. The signature “Tiger Nose” grille becomes more prominent and is available with illuminated elements on top variants. The side profile maintains the classic MPV proportions but with more sculpted surfaces and chrome accents. At the rear, full-width LED taillights and a cleaner tailgate design give it a more premium appearance.

Interior and Features:

• Seating Configurations: Offered in 7-seater and luxury 6-seater layouts with captain chairs

• Premium Materials: Nappa leather upholstery, real wood accents, and soft-touch surfaces throughout

• Entertainment System: Dual 12.3-inch curved displays for instrumentation and infotainment

• Rear Seat Comfort: First-class airline-style seats with leg rests, ventilation, massage functions

• Connectivity: Latest Kia Connect with 5G capability, rear seat entertainment options

• Comfort Features: Tri-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, premium 12-speaker audio system

Powertrain Options:

• 2.2L CRDi Diesel: Carried over but with refinement improvements (expected 200 PS/440 Nm)

• New 2.5L Turbo-Petrol: Potential introduction for markets shifting away from diesel (280 PS/422 Nm)

• Transmission: 8-speed automatic standard across variants

Target Audience: Affluent families, corporate fleets, and luxury hotel transport services.

2. Kia EV9 – The Flagship Electric SUV
Expected Launch: Q4 2025
Expected Price: ₹75 – ₹90 Lakh (ex-showroom)
Positioning: Premium all-electric three-row SUV

The EV9 represents Kia’s most ambitious electric vehicle for the Indian market, bringing cutting-edge technology, revolutionary design, and premium positioning that challenges established luxury brands.

Design Philosophy:
The EV9 showcases Kia’s future-facing design language with its bold, geometric forms and “Digital Tiger Face” featuring vertical LED headlights and animated lighting sequences. The squared-off proportions maximize interior space while maintaining a commanding road presence. The contrasting roof line and flush door handles contribute to excellent aerodynamic efficiency.

Technical Specifications:

• Platform: Dedicated E-GMP architecture

• Battery Options: 99.8 kWh lithium-ion pack

• Range: 500+ km (MIDC cycle)

• Charging: 800V architecture enabling 10-80% charge in 25 minutes with DC fast charger

• Powertrain: Dual motor AWD setup producing 385 PS/600 Nm

• Performance: 0-100 km/h in approximately 6.0 seconds

Interior Innovation:

• Flexible Seating: Rotating second-row seats that can face rear passengers

• Sustainable Materials: Extensive use of recycled plastics, vegan leather, and natural fibers

• Technology: Advanced driver display with augmented reality, 27-inch wide-screen infotainment

• Unique Features: Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, solar roof panel, digital side mirrors (if regulations permit)

Advanced Safety and ADAS:

• Kia Drive Wise: Level 2+ autonomous driving capabilities

• Highway Driving Pilot: Allows hands-free driving on approved highways

• Remote Smart Parking Assist: Can park and retrieve vehicle via smartphone

• Biometric Authentication: Fingerprint and facial recognition for personalized settings

Target Audience: Early adopters of luxury electric vehicles, affluent families seeking premium three-row SUV with sustainability focus.

3. Kia Seltos Facelift 2025
Expected Launch: Q1 2025
Expected Price: ₹11 – ₹20 Lakh (ex-showroom)
Positioning: Refreshed version of the best-selling compact SUV

The Seltos has been a phenomenal success for Kia in India, and the 2025 facelift aims to maintain its competitive edge with design updates, feature enhancements, and potential powertrain revisions.

Exterior Updates:

• Revised Front Fascia: Updated “Tiger Nose” grille with new pattern, slimmer LED headlights

• New Bumpers: More aggressive styling with additional skid plate elements

• Fresh Wheel Designs: New 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheel options

• Updated Rear: Revised LED taillight signature, repositioned reflectors

Interior Upgrades:

• Enhanced Materials: Improved soft-touch materials, new color schemes

• Updated Infotainment: Larger 10.25-inch touchscreen with latest connectivity features

• New Features: Ventilated rear seats, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, additional USB-C ports

• Safety Enhancements: Additional airbags, improved ADAS functionality

Powertrain Revisions:

• 1.5L Turbo-Petrol: Potential power increase (expected 170 PS/253 Nm)

• 1.5L Diesel: May continue if market demand persists

• New Hybrid Option: Possible introduction of mild-hybrid technology for better fuel efficiency

Target Audience: Urban and young families seeking a feature-rich compact SUV with latest technology.

4. Kia Clavis – The Lifestyle-focused Compact SUV
Expected Launch: Q3 2026
Expected Price: ₹9 – ₹13 Lakh (ex-showroom)
Positioning: Boxy compact SUV targeting urban adventurers

The Clavis (name tentative) represents Kia’s entry into the lifestyle compact SUV segment, competing with the likes of Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Mahindra Thar, but with more urban-friendly packaging and features.

Design Concept:
The Clavis adopts a retro-futuristic design with upright, boxy proportions that maximize interior space while creating a distinctive appearance. Short overhangs, squared wheel arches, and optional two-tone paint schemes enhance its rugged character. The design incorporates practical elements like roof rails, rear-mounted spare wheel, and generous ground clearance.

Key Features:

• Modular Interior: Removable rear seats, washable floor materials, numerous storage solutions

• Advanced Connectivity: Latest Kia Connect features with off-road specific functions

• Customization Options: Extensive personalization through Kia’s customization program

• Practical Elements: Large cargo opening, flat-folding seats, numerous charging points

Powertrain Options:

• 1.0L Turbo-Petrol: Primary engine option (120 PS/172 Nm)

• 1.5L Diesel: Potential offering for torque-focused buyers

• Transmission: 6-speed manual, 7-speed DCT, and potential all-wheel-drive variant

Target Audience: Urban youth and young families seeking a stylish, practical compact SUV with lifestyle appeal.

5. Kia EV3 – The Affordable Electric SUV
Expected Launch: Q2 2026
Expected Price: ₹20 – ₹25 Lakh (ex-showroom, post-subsidy)
Positioning: Mass-market electric compact SUV

The EV3 aims to bring Kia’s electric technology to a more accessible price point, potentially becoming the brand’s volume EV model in India.

Product Strategy:

• Local Assembly: Significant local content to achieve competitive pricing

• Battery Strategy: Multiple battery options including a smaller pack for urban-focused buyers

• Charging Solutions: Partnership with charging infrastructure providers

Expected Specifications:

• Range: 350-450 km (MIDC) depending on battery option

• Charging: 400V architecture with DC fast charging capability

• Features: Curved displays, comprehensive connected features, adequate ADAS

Target Audience: Urban commuters and environmentally conscious buyers seeking an affordable electric SUV.

Kia’s Electric Vehicle Roadmap in India

Kia’s electric vehicle strategy for India involves a phased approach:

Phase 1 (2023-2024): Market establishment with premium EVs (EV6)
Phase 2 (2025-2026): Portfolio expansion with diverse body styles (EV9, EV3)
Phase 3 (2027+): Local manufacturing and mass-market penetration

The success of these electric models will depend on several factors unique to India:

• Charging infrastructure development

• Government policy continuity

• Consumer acceptance of premium electric vehicles

• Total cost of ownership competitiveness

Manufacturing and Localization Strategy

Kia’s Anantapur plant in Andhra Pradesh, with its 300,000 units annual capacity, will be crucial for these launches. The level of localization will vary by model:

• Seltos Facelift: High localization (85%+)

• Carnival: Moderate localization (60-70%)

• EV9: Initial low localization with gradual increase

• EV3/Clavis: Target high localization from launch

Sales and Service Network Expansion

To support these new launches, Kia plans to expand its network from the current 300+ touchpoints to 450+ by 2026, with increased focus on:

• Tier 2 and Tier 3 city coverage

• EV-specific service capabilities

• Digital sales channels

• Mobile service units

Market Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges:

• Increasing competition across all segments

• Economic uncertainty affecting premium segment demand

• Infrastructure limitations for electric vehicles

• Regulatory changes and compliance costs

Opportunities:

• Growing premium vehicle segment

• Increasing acceptance of Korean brands in India

• First-mover advantage in certain EV segments

• Export potential from Indian manufacturing base

Conclusion

Kia’s 2025-2026 product pipeline demonstrates a balanced approach between strengthening existing successful segments and pioneering new ones. The Carnival update aims to capture the growing premium people-mover market, while the EV9 establishes Kia’s technological leadership in the electric space. The Seltos facelift ensures continued competitiveness in the crucial compact SUV segment, while potential new entries like the Clavis and EV3 explore new market opportunities. For Indian consumers, this means more choice, better technology, and continued innovation from a brand that has quickly become known for challenging conventions. As Kia continues its Indian journey, these upcoming models will play a crucial role in determining whether the brand can maintain its impressive growth trajectory in one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets.

FAQs

1. Will Kia bring more affordable electric vehicles to India?
Yes, the EV3 expected in 2026 is positioned as an affordable electric SUV targeting the ₹20-25 lakh price segment. Kia is working on high localization to achieve competitive pricing while maintaining their premium brand positioning.

2. How does Kia plan to address charging infrastructure for EVs like the EV9?
Kia is likely to partner with charging network providers and may offer home charging installation services. The EV9’s 800V architecture allows ultra-fast charging, making it somewhat less dependent on widespread charging infrastructure for daily use.

3. What makes the new Carnival different from its competitors?
The new Carnival focuses on providing a premium, limousine-like experience with features such as first-class airline-style seats, advanced connectivity, and sophisticated design that blurs the line between MPV and SUV.

4. Will Kia discontinue diesel engines in their upcoming models?
While Kia is increasingly focusing on petrol, hybrid, and electric powertrains, diesel may continue in models like Carnival and Seltos where customer demand remains strong, particularly for highway driving.

5. How does Kia’s upcoming lineup address Indian market preferences?
Kia’s lineup shows strong understanding of Indian preferences through focus on feature-rich vehicles, bold design, competitive pricing, and gradual electrification that matches infrastructure development.

Tags: Upcoming Kia Cars, Kia Carnival 2025, Kia EV9 India, Kia Seltos Facelift, Kia Clavis, Kia EV3, Kia India Launch, Electric SUV India, Premium MPV India, Kia Future Models.