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Kia is preparing a major expansion of its Indian portfolio, with new hybrid powertrains, premium SUVs and locally developed electric vehicles
Kia India is preparing one of its biggest product expansions since entering the market. The company has outlined plans to introduce more SUVs, MPVs and electric vehicles, while bringing hybrid technology to some of its best-selling models. Here are some of the vehicles expected to launch in the next two years.
1. New-generation Kia Sonet
The next-generation Sonet is one of Kia’s most important upcoming launches for India. Internally codenamed QY2E, the new model is expected to arrive in 2027, bringing a comprehensive design and platform update. The biggest change will be the move from the existing K2 architecture to the newer K1 platform, which also underpins the Syros and the latest Hyundai Venue. This should allow Kia to address one of the current Sonet’s shortcomings: rear-seat space. The new platform also supports a more modern electrical architecture, including over-the-air updates and remote diagnostics.
The familiar 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engines are expected to continue initially. Larger 12.3-inch screens and Level 2 ADAS are among the features being considered. A strong-hybrid powertrain is also in development, but it is not expected at launch. Kia has indicated that the Sonet Hybrid will arrive by 2029, with the possibility of an earlier introduction in 2028.
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2. Kia Seltos Hybrid
The Seltos Hybrid is arguably the most significant upcoming Kia for buyers looking for a fuel-efficient midsize SUV. The India-bound version was showcased at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, confirming that Kia is preparing to introduce strong-hybrid technology in the Seltos.
The showcased model uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 102 hp and 141 Nm, paired with an electric motor developing 129 hp and 388 Nm. The combined system output is 178hp. It uses a six-speed DCT, with the showcased international version also offering all-wheel drive. The India-spec model is expected to use a front-wheel-drive configuration. It will join the existing petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel versions rather than replace them.
3. Kia Carnival Hybrid
Kia is also preparing to introduce a hybrid version of the Carnival in India. The premium MPV currently sold here is powered by a diesel engine, and the hybrid version will offer an alternative for buyers who want petrol-electric technology in a large luxury people-mover. The global-spec Carnival Hybrid uses a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an electric motor and a six-speed automatic gearbox. Its combined output is 242 hp and 367 Nm.
The India-specific powertrain details have not been announced, so it remains to be seen whether the same configuration will be offered here. The Carnival Hybrid is part of Kia’s announced 2026 electrification programme, with an India introduction expected before the end of the year. Pre-bookings for its Limousine+ variant have already been opened.
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4. Kia Carens Clavis Hybrid
Kia has confirmed that the Carens Clavis will also receive a hybrid powertrain as part of its electrification roadmap. The current MPV is available with naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engines, alongside the all-electric Clavis EV. The hybrid version is expected to arrive in its next-generation iteration by 2029.
It could use the same strong-hybrid technology being developed for the Seltos, although Kia has not disclosed the technical details. This could make the Carens Clavis Hybrid an interesting option for larger families who want the space of an MPV without depending entirely on a diesel powertrain.
5. Kia’s locally developed electric B-SUV Expected around 2028
Kia is also developing a new B-segment electric SUV specifically for India. The company has confirmed that the model will be locally developed and manufactured, although it has not revealed its name or specifications. The new EV is expected to slot between the Syros and Seltos, potentially measuring around 4.2 metres in length. This would place it in an increasingly competitive electric SUV segment, where models from Tata, Mahindra, Hyundai and Maruti Suzuki are expected to compete.
The project is reportedly targeted for 2028. Local development and manufacturing should also allow Kia to position it more competitively than its imported electric offerings.
Kia is clearly looking to fill gaps in its Indian portfolio rather than simply add more variants to existing models. The introduction of hybrid technology in the Sonet, Seltos and Carens could be particularly important, as it gives buyers an alternative to diesel and pure-electric powertrains.
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