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)
Skoda Teases New Vision O Concept Interior
- By MT Bureau
- August 25, 2025
Skoda has released a teaser video offering the first look inside its upcoming Vision O concept car, revealing a new interior design language. The car will be officially unveiled on 8th September in Munich.
The interior showcases the next evolution of the brand’s Modern Solid design philosophy, focusing on a customer-centric and sustainable approach. The design emphasises a spacious layout with clean lines for a harmonious feel.
Oliver Stefani, Head of Skoda Design, said, “The interior design concept of the Vision O showcases our commitment to combining simplicity and sustainability with enhanced comfort. The combination of clean lines and intuitive functionality reflect our efforts to create a harmonious and functional interior. It features materials and design elements that are not only aesthetically an evolution of our Modern Solid design language but also emphasise environmental responsibility.”
The interior features a minimalist, ergonomic design that prioritises practicality and intuitive functionality. It includes unique 3D-printed headrests for a comfortable and airy feel. Following circular economy principles, the materials used throughout the cabin are sustainable, with a focus on plant-based and compostable components to reduce the car’s environmental impact.
The Vision O will be a look at the future of Skoda’s estate segment.
Renault Launches New Kiger SUV At INR 629,000
- By MT Bureau
- August 24, 2025
Renault India has released the new Kiger, an updated version of its sub-four-meter SUV at prices starting INR 629,000 with prices going upto INR 1.12 million (ex-showroom).
The SUV is an evolution of the previous model, features over 35 updates. It was developed to align with the ‘rethink performance’ philosophy.
The new Kiger has a refreshed exterior and an updated interior. It now includes a multi-view camera system, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps. The Kiger is also equipped with a 20.32 cm touchscreen and a sound system.
The Kiger is available with two engine options: a 100 PS turbocharged engine and a 72 PS naturally aspirated engine. For safety, the new Kiger offers 21 standard safety features across all versions, including six airbags, ESP and Hill Start Assist.
Venkatram Mamillapalle, MD and CEO, Renault India, said, “We are excited to launch the New Kiger in a segment which is growing fastest and contributes 50% to the SUV sales and 31% to the TIV of the country. Kiger has been a unique product in its segment, and with this latest evolution, we are reaffirming our commitment to making expressive design, intelligent engineering, and real-world performance accessible to Indian customers. This marks a pivotal moment in Renault’s India centric transformation journey renault. rethink.”
Francisco Hidalgo, Vice-President, Sales and Marketing, Renault India, said, “Renault Kiger has shaped expectations in the compact SUV segment with its aesthetic design, modern details, and bold stance combined with the lightweight CMFA+ platform. The New Kiger remains highly agile and responsive, giving customers the confidence of SUV DNA with the ease of everyday driving on city roads and highways- ticking all that is required for perfect performance.”
Hyundai Exter Gets New Pro Pack, New Colour Options & Features
- By MT Bureau
- August 22, 2025
Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has introduced ‘PRO’ Pack in its popular compact SUV the Hyundai Exter at starting price of INR 798,390 (ex-showroom).
The new Pro pack features wheel arch cladding, side sill garnish, all-new Titan Grey Matte colour and a Dashcam to make the SUV more safer.
Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, "At HMIL, we are continuously evolving our product offerings to resonate with the aspirations of today's young and progressive customers. The introduction of PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER is a step further in this direction, combining bold styling, advanced technology and strong safety to create a truly distinctive value proposition. With its refreshed appeal, the PRO Pack in Hyundai EXTER strengthens our commitment to redefining customer delight and making every drive a PRO experience."
MOL, Suzuki Motor Corporation And TradeWaltz Join Forces To Decarbonise Automobile Trade Between India & Africa
- By MT Bureau
- August 22, 2025
MOL, Suzuki Motor Corporation and TradeWaltz have announced a new partnership to streamline and decarbonise the automobile trade between India and Africa. The three companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama.
This collaboration aims to address current challenges in the trade by leveraging digital solutions and enhancing efficiency. The companies will focus on identifying problems in the supply chain and developing solutions for smoother transportation. A key part of the initiative is also promoting decarbonisation efforts within the logistics process.
The partnership aligns with the ‘Japan-India Cooperation Initiative for Sustainable Economic Development in Africa,’ launched in February 2025. By combining their individual strengths, MOL, Suzuki and TradeWaltz hope to contribute to the economic development of both India and Africa. The companies stated that this MU is the first step toward building a more robust and interconnected automobile supply chain between these two rapidly growing markets.
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