Kia Motors to Introduce All-New Compact SUV for India

Kia Motors is preparing to introduce a new compact SUV in India with the codename, AY. This will be the third SUV model from Kia which will sit between the Sonet and Seltos in their India product portfolio. The upcoming SUV will offer both electric and petrol powertrain options which will be sold in 2025 in the price bracket of Rs 12 lakh to 24 lakh (ex-showroom).

Kia AY SUV: Design

The all-new compact SUV is not named yet but is codenamed AY. The model is expected to have a tall and boxy design which will have a tough SUV-like presence, making it distinguishable from the Kia Sonet and Seltos which have more of a crossover look. With its tall stance, the New AY SUV is expected to be more spacious. Its tough look will compete with the likes of Mahindra Thar and Maruti Jimny. As per the reports, the new SUV design is inspired by the Kia Soul which is quite a successful Kia model overseas.

Kia AY SUV: EV and ICE Powertrain Options

According to a certain media report, the new Kia AY compact SUV is expected to come equipped with both ICE and EV powertrain options. The ICE variants are expected to be powered by a sole 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine. This is to be noted that the ICE variants would not offer a Four-Wheel-Drive variant. Rather what will be provided is the Sonet’s to Two-Wheel-Drive system. As for the EV trims they will get an additional electric motor positioned towards the rear alongside a Four-Wheel-Drive.

Kia AY SUV: Domestic and Export Sales

According to reports, Kia Motor India is planning to produce around 1 lakh units of the compact SUV AY annually which is likely to include 80 percent volumes of the petrol version while the balance contribution will come from an EV derivative. These volumes are expected to include allocations for Right Hand Drive overseas markets as well.

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