New Kia MPV spotted testing, likely to launch this year

Kia has been testing a new premium MPV on Indian roads. Previously, it was suspected that the new Kia MPV was a facelifted version of the Carens. However, new spy shots reveal that it is a new product in Kia’s portfolio in India. The MPV will sit above Carens in Kia’s model hierarchy. There will be a lot of design overlap between the two cars. However, the new Kia MPV will be decked with more premium features.

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New premium Kia MPV in the works: What to expect?

The test mules of the new Kia MPV spotted so far have been draped in heavy covers. From what we can tell, the MPV has a triangular design for the headlamps. Some of the design elements for the front fascia are borrowed from the newly-launched Kia Syros. The profile of the MPV is similar to Kia Carens and the two cars share similar dimensions. The alloy wheels sport a new geometric design. At the back, the LED tail lamps are connected by a sleek light bar.

The spy shots do not reveal any details about the interior of the new Kia MPV. We expect it to feature the 30-inch Trinity Panoramic Display from Kia. This display is also found in the Kia Syros SUV. It comprises two 12.3-inch displays for the touchscreen infotainment system and the digital instrument cluster along with a 5-inch display for the climate control system. The MPV will also rock features like ambient lighting, powered and ventilated front seats, reclining and sliding second-row seats, a premium audio system, and ambient lighting.

The new Kia MPV will likely share its powertrain with Kia Carens. However, it may not get the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This will limit its powertrain choices to the 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and the 1.5-litre diesel engine. The turbo petrol engine produces a maximum power output of 158hp. Meanwhile, the diesel engine puts out 114hp. Both engines can be mated to manual and automatic transmissions. Kia is also working on an all-electric version of the MPV.

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Final Thoughts

Kia plans on launching its new premium MPV by October 2025. We expect it to fetch around Rs 12 lakh. In comparison, prices for the Kia Carens start at Rs 10.60 lakh and go up to Rs 19.70 lakh. Upon launch, the new Kia MPV will rival Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, XL6, Mahindra Marazzo, Tata Curvv, and MG Windsor.