Quick Reads
- Kia has recently launched a teaser with emphasis on “BEV” and “HEV” cars
- Speculated to be the Kia Syros EV and Sorento Hybrid
- The upcoming Kia EV is expected to come at the price range of Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh
- Sorento Hybrid will act as a premium three-row flagship SUV above Seltos.
Intro
Kia India aims to add more to its lineup with an inclination towards electrification. Post the teaser launch by Kia on social media platforms that showed “BEV” (Battery Electric Vehicle) and “HEV” (Hybrid Electric Vehicle), the carmaker seems all set for some major launches. It is also in line with the announcement done at the global investor event by Kia, where it had announced that the Syros EV and the Sorento Hybrid are going to arrive in India.
The Syros EV: A New Entry-Level Electric Option
The ‘BEV’ teased by Kia could be the Syros EV. Built on the K1 platform, the Syros EV will serve as the electric version to its internal combustion engine (ICE) sibling. Test mules have already been spotted testing on Indian roads, suggesting the debut is likely to happen by the end of July.
While it will likely retain the tall, boxy silhouette of the standard Syros, Kia is expected to differentiate the EV with a closed-off grille, redesigned alloy wheels, and exclusive colour options. Inside, the cabin is expected to feature a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and Level 2 ADAS, along with EV-specific graphics on its displays.
Mechanically, the Syros EV will likely borrow its battery options from the globally sold Hyundai Inster EV. This means buyers could see two battery pack options, including a 42 kWh and a 49 kWh unit, delivering a driving range of roughly 300 km to 369 km. Expected to be priced between Rs 15 lakh and Rs 20 lakh, the Syros EV will be Kia’s most affordable electric offering in India, directly rivalling the Tata Nexon EV and the MG Windsor EV.
The Sorento Hybrid: A New Three-Row Flagship
The hybrid in the teaser could be the Kia Sorento. The Sorento is a premium three-row SUV globally, and its introduction in India will fill a gap in Kia’s lineup for an ICE-based flagship positioned above the Seltos.
Measuring over 4.8 metres in length with a wheelbase of over 2.8 metres, the Sorento will be available in both six- and seven-seat configurations. Global models are loaded with premium equipment, and the Indian spec is likely to follow suit with a Bose audio system, ventilated seats, dual 12.3-inch screens, and a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite.
Under the hood, Kia is expected to focus on a self-charging hybrid (HEV) or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) setup for the Indian market. Globally, the Sorento PHEV uses a 1.6-litre, turbo-hybrid powertrain generating a robust 261 bhp, which would make it one of the most powerful SUVs in its class. Expected to carry an ex-showroom price tag between Rs 28 lakh and Rs 35 lakh, the Sorento Hybrid will lock horns with established competitors like the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, and the Jeep Meridian.
