Kia Sonet previews a future global compact SUV from the brand. The concept will be developed further ahead of a launch in the Indian market in the second half of 2020.
Carnival has been officially launched in India in three different specifications at the starting prices of INR 24.95 lakh for the Premium variant, INR 28.95 lakh for the Prestige variant, and INR 33.95 lakh for the Limousine variant. Carnival is designed to resonate with young-at-heart, trendy and elite Indian buyers. Kia received more than 1,400 bookings for the new car on the first day of orders.
Kookhyun Shim, MD and CEO, Kia Motors India, said, “When Kia launched in India two years ago, we came here to win the hearts of Indian customers. Today, I can say that our approach – to do more than simply build and sell great cars here – is bearing fruit. We have sought to understand the Indian customers’ aspirations, and match them with best-in-class products and services. Our latest vehicle, Kia Carnival, is a clear example of this approach. Though it represents a leap from the Seltos into a premium, aspirational segment, it has been devised with the same passion.”
Sonet: Kia Sonet concept previews the third product offering from Kia Motors in India. A smart urban SUV for young, dynamic Indian consumers, Sonet takes inspiration from the advanced world of networking.
With a modern, dynamic and bold design, Sonet is equipped with several first-in-class features like head-turning looks, Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille, step-well geometry within the grille mesh, ‘tiger-eye line’ daytime running lights, and wide rear signature lighting.
Seltos X-Line Concept: Kia revealed also the rugged new Kia Seltos X-Line Concept, a bolder reinterpretation of the Seltos SUV. The X-Line Concept features a more assertive, rugged front design with a futuristic radiator grille. Further modifications have been made to the front and rear bumpers to make it look more distinguished, as well as the addition of a prominent skid plate, roof rack, and all-terrain-inspired body panels to elevate the personality of the car.
Building on its mission to innovate for tomorrow’s mobility solutions, Kia showcased 14 products at Auto Expo 2020. They included:-
Soul EV: One of Kia’s first globally-sold fully-electric vehicles, the Soul EV has several eye-catching features, and offers long-range, zero-emissions power in the urban crossover class. Powered exclusively by electric energy, Soul EV gives buyers a choice between mid and long-range battery packs.
Niro EV: Energy and power for the Niro EV come from a cutting-edge, liquid-cooled 64kWh lithium-ion polymer battery and powerful electric motor. The long-range battery, packaged under the floor of the vehicle to maximize cabin space for passengers, gives the Niro EV a range of 450 kilometers from a single charge.
XCeed: Kia’s latest global sensation XCeed combines compact SUV practicality with the sporty packaging and engaging handling of a hatchback. XCeed’s suites of advanced safety, connectivity and infotainment technologies make it one of the most high-tech, comprehensively equipped cars in its class.
Stonic: An eye-catching and confident compact CUV, Stonic blends SUV-inspired design with agile handling and a sporty ride for an exciting drive. (MT)
Maruti Suzuki India, AU Small Finance Bank Launch Suhana Safar Initiative
- By MT Bureau
- July 02, 2026
AU Small Finance Bank has partnered with Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, to introduce 'Suhana Safar', a scheme that links Recurring Deposits (RD) to auto loans. The initiative is aimed at first-time car buyers and applies to the Alto K10, S-Presso, Celerio and WagonR models.
Under the programme, customers open an RD account with AU Small Finance Bank and deposit a monthly amount equivalent to the future car EMI for 3 to 6 months. Upon maturity, the accumulated funds, which have earned interest, are used as the down payment for the vehicle, after which the bank provides the auto loan.
The scheme allows customers to save and earn interest while demonstrating repayment capacity before committing to a loan. The bank also uses this process to evaluate creditworthiness.
AU Small Finance Bank offers RD interest rates of 4.75 percent to 7.40 percent per annum for the general public, and 5.25 percent to 7.90 percent per annum for senior citizens.
Skoda Kodiaq RS Launched At INR 6.69 Million In India
- By MT Bureau
- July 02, 2026
Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has introduced the new Kodiaq RS, the first SUV to carry the performance-focused RS badge in the Indian market at INR 6.69 million (ex-showroom).
The company limited the initial release to 50 units, which were sold out within six minutes of launch. This release aligns with the 50th anniversary of the RS badge and the 125th year of the brand’s motorsport history.
Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said, “The RS badge represents an iconic performance legacy. Bringing it to our flagship 4x4, all-terrain, 7-seater SUV combines luxury, capability and motorsport DNA in one offering. The overwhelming response, with all units sold out in minutes, reflects the strong enthusiasm among customers.”
The Kodiaq RS features a 2.0-litre TSI engine producing 195 kW (265 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed DSG transmission and all-wheel drive. The vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 kmph in 6.3 seconds, with a top speed of 231 kmph.
The vehicle is equipped with progressive steering and the latest-generation Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) Plus, which allows drivers to adjust damping characteristics. The Driving Mode Select offers multiple settings, including Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport, Individual, Snow and a dedicated Off-Road mode.
The exterior includes black accents on the grille frame, mirrors, window frames, roof rails, and the D-pillar. The front features a bumper with black elements and a horizontal light strip in the grille. The rear includes a full-width reflector, blacked-out lettering, and stainless-steel exhaust tips. The SUV is fitted with 20-inch Elias alloy wheels and is available in Moon White, Magic Black, Velvet Red and Steel Grey.
Honda Cars India Reports 5,243 Unit Wholesales In June 2026
- By MT Bureau
- July 01, 2026
Honda Cars India (HCIL), a leading passenger vehicle manufacturer, has announced wholesales of 8,788 units in June 2026.
In the domestic market, the company sold 5,243 units and 3,545 units for export, which marks 71.5 percent YoY, when the company sold 4,618 units domestically and exported 506 units.
Kunal Behl, Vice-President, Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, "The launch of new City and India Premiere of global SUV Honda ZR-V has generated strong momentum for our overall sales including Amaze and Elevate during June, driven by healthy customer demand and a positive market response. With Monsoon conditions expected to improve during July, we hope to sustain this positive momentum in the months ahead.
“The deliveries of ZR-V are also scheduled to begin from July. It will draw discerning new customers and prospects into Honda showrooms, enhancing our premium brand appeal and unlocking new growth opportunities,” he added.
Renault India Reports 4,063 Unit Wholesales For June 2026
- By MT Bureau
- July 01, 2026
French automotive company Renault India has recorded 4,063 domestic wholesale units in June 2026, a 55 percent YoY increase compared to the previous year. This also marks the 10th consecutive month of double-digit growth for the company.
Interestingly, for H1 CY2026, the company reported sales of 25,844 units, representing 61 percent YoY growth.
During June, Renault India began exports of the Duster, dispatching 750 units to South Africa. The company stated that this performance reflects customer response to its product strategy and demand across its portfolio.
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