Kia India is planning to expand its SUV product portfolio with two all-new SUVs by 2028-29, catering to the B and C-segments across the Rs 10 lakh – Rs 35 lakh price bracket. Of the two upcoming models, one will be positioned below the Kia Seltos, while the other will sit above it.
It’s important to note that Kia has nearly finalized the arrival of the new midsize SUV, while the C-segment SUV is still under consideration and has yet to receive a green flag.
New Kia Midsize SUV For India
The upcoming Kia midsize SUV (B-segment) will be sold alongside the Seltos, following a product strategy similar to that adopted by Maruti Suzuki with the Grand Vitara and Victoris. The Maruti Victoris proves to be an instant hit, generating higher sales volumes than the Grand Vitara.
Hyundai Motor India is also set to launch a new midsize SUV by this year’s Diwali season, based on the global-spec Bayon. Having two products in the same segment, but with slightly different positioning and value proposition turns, can prove to a profitable strategy for carmakers.
Expected to measure around 4.2 meters in length, the upcoming Kia midsize SUV could be offered with petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrain options. While the product details are still under the wraps, the new SUV is likely to share platform, powertrains, features and components with the Kia Seltos. However, its design language could be slightly different.
As far as pricing is concerned, the new Kia midsize SUV is expected to be slightly affordable than the Seltos and could directly rival the Maruti Victoris and the upcoming Hyundai Bayon-based SUV.
New Kia 7-Seater SUV
The upcoming new Kia C-segment SUV will bridge the gap between the Seltos and the Sorento in the company’s product lineup. While the Kia Sorento with an estimated price of around Rs 30 lakh – Rs 35 lakh will serve the premium segment, the new Kia 7-seater SUV could be positioned as a more affordable alternative. When launched, it will rival the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus.
Following Kia’s multi-powertrain strategy, the new Kia 7-seater SUV could be offered with petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrain options.