Kia India's upcoming model to be a 6 and 7-seater MPV
Kia India has confirmed that its next offering for the Indian market will be a three-row model. There has been some conjecture as to its bodystyle and the segment this model will actually fit into, but we have reason to believe that Kia will position its next offering as an MPV. The idea seems to be to cash in on the big gap in the MPV market between the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga/XL 6 and the Toyota Innova. This is also a departure from the brand's earlier strategy of mirroring its offerings to that of Hyundai.
The new Kia MPV should, however, borrow the same extended architecture from the Alcazar. This means a longer wheelbase, more high-strength steel in the body and revised suspension tuning. Also expected is a similar set of features, with the digital instrumentation, 360-degree cameras, panoramic sunroof, connected-tech, all making their way here. The second row should get the seatback tables, the floor-mounted armrest and a separate AC compressor for the third row.
2022 Kia MPV expected engines, gearbox
Engine options could again mirror those of the new Hyundai. The diesel motor should continue unchanged from the Seltos, the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel putting out 115PS and 250 Nm. Both engines come paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque-converter automatic. The new 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol making 169PS and 191 Nm should also be added to the line-up. Both engines are expected to be made available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque-converter automatic.
2022 Kia MPV styling
To differentiate its new offering further, Kia India is expected to style this MPV along the lines of the new Carnival available internationally. The more organic look of its new design theme is expected to be followed but a squared-off stance and aggressive SUV-loke styling cues are to be expected.
2022 Kia MPV expected pricesThe Kia MPV should be priced at a premium over the Seltos. We think prices may start from Rs 15 lakh and go up to Rs 20 lakh, ex-showroom. This will help Kia exploit the price gap between the XL6 and the Innova.
Watch our video review of the Hyundai Alcazar below