4 New Kia Cars Launching Next Year: Syros To Carens Facelift
Kia launched the new generation Carnival and the EV9 flagship in October this year. The Korean carmaker seems to have a comprehensive plan for portfolio expansion. It aims to launch as many as four new models in 2025. The proposed launches include both ICE and EV models. These also include updates and all-new offerings. Here are 4 new Kia cars launching next year in India.
Kia Carens Facelift
The Kia Carens is due for a facelift and the updated vehicle is now being tested in India and Korea. The production is expected to start by May 2025, and the final form will have a slight price premium over the outgoing model. It will have revamped looks, better cabin experience and more features.
Based on speculative renders, it could feature sleek LED headlamps, redesigned bumpers, and a reworked fascia. Other visual upgrades hinted at include new wheels, a refined rear end, and redesigned tail lamps. These are yet to be confirmed officially. Spy shots also suggest significant overhauls in most areas of design.
Inside, the facelifted Carens will likely receive an upgraded cabin layout with possible changes in upholstery, updated AC panels, and a refreshed design for the touchscreen interface. It will likely bring about a more premium and intuitive experience. The outgoing MPV offers two 10.25-inch displays, a wireless charger, ventilated front seats, and a single-pane sunroof. The facelift will likely come with features like a panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS and a 360° camera.
The mechanical side will remain unchanged at large. It will likely retain the familiar set of petrol and diesel engines- 1.5 NA petrol, 1.5 turbocharged petrol and 1.5 diesel. The power and torque outputs too could remain unaltered.
Kia Carens EV
Along with the facelift, Kia could also launch an EV based on the Carens. It will borrow its underpinnings from the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV and will likely feature a 45 kWh battery pack. It will, however, have a stiffer suspension setup and the electric motor could also come from the Creta EV. The manufacturer is already testing the Carens EV in India. In terms of styling, it could borrow a lot from the facelift. EV-spec cues like a closed-off grille, a new lighting signature, fresh wheels, low-resistance tyres, etc should be expected as well. The recently launched BYD EMAX7 will be the prime rival to the Carens EV upon launch.
Kia Syros
Kia is developing a new compact SUV to slot between the Sonet and Seltos in their Indian lineup. The trademark for “Syros” was recently filed in the country, fueling speculation that this could be the new SUV’s name. Some believe it may be the India-specific version of the Kia Clavis.
Spy shots hint at a more spacious and practical design than the Sonet, and interior upgrades that would have a premium appeal. Expected features include a dual-tone flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated controls, a panoramic sunroof, automatic climate control, ventilated and powered front seats, a Bose audio system, drive modes, leatherette seating, and ADAS functionality.
Powertrain options will likely mirror the Sonet’s- 1.5-litre diesel, 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol, and a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol, with transmission options such as a 7-speed DCT, 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, and 6-speed automatic.
Kia Syros EV
Kia also has plans to introduce an all-electric version of the Syros in 2025. The EV will share its platform with the ICE version. The production form could battle the likes of Nexon EV or Punch EV when launched. Not much detail about this vehicle is available. There isn’t even a word yet on the powertrain to be expected.