KIA Carens Facelift

Family cars or MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are highly popular in India, and several factors align them with buyers’ requirements. These vehicles are spacious, practical, frugal, and relatively affordable. Furthermore, their great resale value makes them a preferred choice among budget-conscious buyers. While there are already multiple choices in the segment, three major offerings from Kia and MG are set to join the bandwagon. Here’s a brief on the upcoming MPVs/family cars that are ready to hit the roads in 2025. Kia Carens Facelift The Kia Carens is one of the most practical family cars currently on sale in India. This compact MPV is all set to receive its first midlife update early next year. Spy images have revealed that a few cosmetic changes will be made to its front and rear profiles, including tweaked bumpers, a new grille, and headlamps. Inside, it’s likely to feature a newly designed dashboard along with updated trims and upholstery. The 2025 Kia Carens facelift might borrow some features from the Seltos. Rumour has it that the carmaker might introduce a segment-first ADAS suite along with a 360-degree camera in the model lineup. The engines, however, will be carried forward from the current model. This means the updated Carens will continue to offer the 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol, 1.5L turbo petrol, and 1.5L diesel engines. The naturally aspirated and turbo petrol motors produce 115bhp and 160bhp, respectively, while the diesel engine delivers 116bhp. Both manual and automatic gearboxes will also be retained from the pre-facelift Carens. Also Read: Kia Syros Launch Expected In January 2025 Kia Carens EV Kia has already started testing the electric iteration of the Carens MPV. It will be the first mass-market electric offering from the South Korean automaker in India. However, there is no clarity on whether the Carens EV will be introduced alongside its ICE-powered facelift version or at a later stage. The upcoming Kia Carens EV will share its design elements, platform, interior, and features with its ICE counterpart. A few exterior changes will differentiate it from the regular model, including a likely closed-off grille similar to that of the Kia EV9. The front and rear bumpers might also be updated. Spy images suggest that the electric Carens will feature alloy wheels resembling those in Kia’s global EV lineup. Speculations are rife that the new Kia electric MPV will share its powertrain with the Hyundai Creta EV, expected in early 2025. The latter is likely to come equipped with a 45kWh battery pack and an electric motor mounted on the front axle. Upon launch, the Kia Carens EV will compete with the newly launched BYD eMax7, available in two trims (Premium and Superior) priced between Rs. 26.9 lakh and Rs. 29.9 lakh. MG Mifa 9 The MG Mifa 9 is set to join the premium MPV segment in India. Likely to be the second model retailed via MG’s "MG Select" premium dealerships, following the Cyberster roadster, this electric MPV debuted in India at the 2023 Delhi Auto Expo. MG is expected to showcase it again at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Show in January, ahead of its market launch in March. The Mifa 9 is estimated to be priced at around Rs. 65 lakh (ex-showroom). Globally, the MG Mifa 9 comes equipped with a 90kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor mounted on the front axle. This front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup delivers a combined power output of 245bhp and 350Nm of torque, with a claimed WLTP range of 430km on a single charge. The MPV measures 5.2 meters in length, 2 meters in width, and 1.8 meters in height. Buyers will likely have options for both 7- and 8-seater versions of the MPV. Key features include twin sunroofs, powered rear sliding doors, powered front and rear seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, foldable ottoman seats, and rear entertainment screens. Also Read: Mahindra And VW-Skoda Partnership Talks Stall Over Key Disagreements

The Kia Sonet is a compact SUV that has gained the latest craze for its stylish design, feature-rich variants, and competitive price. With numerous engine options and trim levels, the Sonet meets multiple consumer requirements, making it a promising choice for urban commuters and adventure-seekers alike. In the succeeding section, we will go into greater detail discussing this car's pros and cons. We also talk about the Kia Sonet and its variants and price levels, so you might get an idea of where the best-suited model is. Pros and Cons of Kia Sonet Pros It has an athletic design, a catchy look, and is very modern. Equipped with advanced safety and tech features. Covers multiple options with a petrol, diesel, and hybrid engine. Can easily navigate through city traffic. Cons Not impressively spacious; for tall passengers. The rear seat feels a bit cramped. Top-end models are too pricey.   Price and Variant Variant Price (ex-showroom) HTE Rs. 8 Lakh - Rs. 9.80 Lakh HTE (O) Rs. 8.32 Lakh - Rs. 10 Lakh HTK Rs. 9.03 Lakh - Rs. 10.50 Lakh HTK (O) Rs. 9.39 Lakh - Rs. 10.90 Lakh HTK+ Rs. 10.12 Lakh - Rs. 11.62 Lakh Gravity Edition (Based on HTK+) Rs. 10.50 Lakh - Rs. 12 Lakh HTX Rs. 11.72 Lakh - Rs. 12.85 Lakh HTX+ Rs. 13.60 Lakh - Rs. 14.52 Lakh GTX Rs. 13.72 Lakh - Rs. 14.57 Lakh GTX+ Rs. 14.72 Lakh - Rs. 15.57 Lakh X-Line Rs. 14.92 Lakh - Rs. 15.77 Lakh Powertrain Options The 2024 Kia Sonet will offer three engine choices. The first one is a 1.2-litre 4-cylinder petrol unit that makes 81.86 bhp and 115 Nm, mated to a 5-speed manual. The second unit is a 1-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol that churns out 118.35 bhp and 172 Nm, with the option for a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed DCT. Lastly, it has a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel unit making 114.41 bhp and 250 Nm, with a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, or 6-speed automatic transmission on offer. This variety caters to different performance and efficiency needs. Kia Sonet Base Model HTE Exterior Interior Safety Technology 15-inch steel wheels with covers Fixed rear headrests 2x front side thorax airbags 1x front & 2x rear USB-C ports Body-coloured outside mirrors Rear AC vents Impact-sensing auto door unlock 4.2-inch multi-information display (MID) Body-coloured door handles 12V Power outlet Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) Power mirrors Body-coloured bumpers Day/night inside mirror Hill start assist Tilt steering Front & rear skid plates Front power windows Electronic stability control     Adjustable front headrests Speed-sensing auto door lock     Front armrest with storage 5x 3-point seatbelts     Semi-leather upholstery 2x curtain airbags     Black interior     Kia Sonet HTK                                            Kia Sonet HTK Features Over HTE Exterior Interior Safety Technology Larger 16-inch style wheels Height-adjustable driver seat Front parking sensors 8-inch touchscreen infotainment Roof rails Rear power windows Anti-theft alarm Wireless Android Auto Shark-fin antenna Sunglass holder Auto headlamps Wireless Apple CarPlay Follow-me-home headlamps Rear door curtain Remote central locking Steering-mounted controls     Driver rear view monitor 4x speakers     Rear parking camera 2x tweeters Kia Sonet HTK+                                        Kia Sonet HTK+ Features Over HTK Exterior Interior Safety Technology LED DRLs Power-folding mirrors Keyless entry with push-button start/stop Power-folding mirrors LED fog lamps Rear defogger Remote engine start (Turbo petrol & diesel) Remote engine start (Turbo petrol & diesel) LED tail lamps Auto AC     Sunroof (Turbo only) 1-touch up/down driver window     Connecting tail light       Chrome detailing on the front grille       Turn indicators on outside mirrors       Kia Sonet HTX                                       Kia Sonet HTX Featutres Over HTK+ Exterior Interior Safety Technology LED reflector headlamps Rear parcel tray ISOFIX Traction modes (Auto only) Rear disc brakes Leather upholstery (Auto only)   Paddle shifters (Auto only) Dual-tone horn Black-brown interior (Auto only)   Ventilated front seats (Auto only) Sunroof Boot lamp   Cruise control Drive modes (Auto only)   Black-beige interior       Leather on door armrest       Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel       Rear armrest with cupholders       60-40 split-folding rear seatbacks       Adjustable rear headrests     Kia Sonet HTX+                                       Kia Sonet HTX+ Features Over HTX Exterior Interior Safety Technology 16-inch alloy wheels Leather upholstery Auto-dimming inside mirror 10.25-inch full-colour LCD instrument cluster Rear washer wiper Air purifier Telematics Bose sound system with 2 tweeters and 1 subwoofer   Ventilated front seats   LED sound mood lights   Black-brown interior theme   OTA map update       Wireless phone charger       Wired Apple CarPlay       Wired Android Auto       Larger 10.25-inch touchscreen Kia Sonet GTX+                      Kia Sonet GTX+ Featurse Over HTX+ Exterior Interior Safety Chrome exterior detailing Black interior Lane follow assist Black roof rails Black roof liner Lane departure warning Integrated spoiler Power driver seat Leading vehicle departure alert Differently designed skid plates Metallic pedals Driver attention warning   Black interior detailing Blind view monitor     Lane keep assist     Auto high beam     Forward collision avoidance assist     Forward collision warning     360-degree camera Kia Sonet X-Line                                           Kia Sonet Xline Features Over GTX+ Exterior Interior Safety Black front skid plate Black and grey dual-tone interior None specifically listed in this set Black rear exhaust garnish Black and grey dual-tone upholstery All windows 1-touch up/down Matte grey shark-fin antenna Orange stitching and interior accents   Black fog lamp garnish X Line interior and exterior badging   Gloss black grille Premium black roof liner   Matte grey exterior color     Which Kia Sonet Variant to Buy? It is according to your necessities, preferences, and budget to decide the right Kia Sonet variant. Those who value features and fuel efficiency would love the HTE or the HTE-O trims. Those looking for balance can find great value in the HTK and the HTK+. Luxury and advanced technology seekers can get the HTX+, GTX, or X-Line variants. Each variant has various features to ensure that every driver gets the perfect Sonet. Also Read: The Iconic Ferrari Models: From Classics to Masterpieces

Kia is preparing the next-generation Seltos SUV that has been spotted couple of times in South Korea. The latest spy-shots reveal a heavily camouflaged SUV, which shows some of the design highlights. This mid-sized SUV is expected to make its global debut in the second half of 2025. Completely New Design, Modern Touches The new Seltos will boast a fully new design while keeping the familiar size and shape of the automobile. The important updates on which one can see from the spy pictures are as follows: New squared headlamps with a curved element. LED fog lights and reprofiled grille. Sporty dual-tone alloy wheels. LED taillights with a high-mounted stop lamp. A rear bumper-mounted number plate recess. These changes will give the SUV a more modern and stylish look. Mystery Surrounds the Interior Spy shots do not reveal the 2025 Seltos' interior. Kia may bring an all-new cabin design with new goodies. It shall capture the latest technology and luxury materials to reach its competitors, the Grand Vitara and Hyundai Creta. Hybrid Powertrain for Better Mileage The next-generation Seltos will feature multiple powertrains Turbo-petrol engines for the car enthusiast. Diesel engine options for efficiency-oriented buyers. A hybrid powertrain will likely deliver higher mileage and reduced emissions. A hybrid version may interest eco-conscious buyers and allow the Seltos to stand out in a crowded segment. Other Future Kia Models The company has much up its sleeve for 2024 and 2025. In addition to the new Seltos, Kia has the Syros SUV, a facelifted Carens, and an electric Carens in the pipeline. With these updates, the company thought it would try its automobiles more aggressively in the SUV market and present buyers with more exciting choices. Source Also Read: After New Amaze, Honda Will Launch 2 New SUVs

Kia India has an aggressive business plan for next year, including expanding its product range, production capacity, and sales network. Recently, the South Korean automaker announced the name of its upcoming sub-4-metre SUV, which is reported to be positioned above the Sonet in its Indian product portfolio. Called the Kia Syros, it will make its global debut in the coming weeks, with its market launch expected in early 2025 (possibly in January at the second edition of the Bharat Mobility Show). The Kia Carens facelift will also hit showrooms in the first half of 2025. Let’s delve into some key details of these upcoming Kia UVs. Kia Syros The Syros has been undergoing testing for a while now, which is why we have seen its heavily to semi-camouflaged test mules numerous times. Ahead of its official debut, the carmaker has released a couple of teasers revealing its silhouette and tall-boy stance. This subcompact SUV features L-shaped taillamps mounted on the pillars, roof rails, flush-style door handles, a high-mounted stop lamp, and bumper-integrated brake lights. It also comes with vertically stacked LED projector headlamps, LED DRLs, and four-spoke alloy wheels. Interior details are not available at this point. However, the Kia Syros is expected to have an interior layout and features similar to the Sonet. Being a more premium offering than the Sonet, it could include extra features such as ADAS, a 360-degree camera, ventilated and powered front seats, and more. Media reports suggest that the Syros will offer more cabin space for rear-seat occupants than the Sonet. In terms of engines, the Kia Syros is likely to come with a 118bhp 1.0L turbo petrol engine, a naturally aspirated petrol engine, and a 1.5L diesel motor. Kia is also planning to launch an electric version of the Syros at a later stage. 2025 Kia Carens Facelift The Kia Carens has been generating strong sales for the South Korean automaker since its launch in early 2022. Now, this compact MPV is set to receive its first major update in early 2025. Minimal changes are expected both inside and out. The updates may include a slightly revised front grille and headlamps, updated front and rear bumpers, and a new set of alloy wheels. The interior layout and features are likely to remain largely intact. However, the facelifted model is expected to feature a first-in-segment ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite, along with a revised dashboard design and a 360-degree camera. The 2025 Kia Carens facelift will continue to offer the existing 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine (115bhp), 1.5L turbo petrol engine (160bhp), and 1.5L diesel engine (116bhp). Transmission options will also be carried forward from the current model, including a 6-speed manual (standard), a 6-speed torque converter automatic (available only with the diesel engine), and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (offered only with the turbo-petrol variants). The Kia Carens EV launch is also in the pipeline, though it is likely to arrive towards the end of 2025. Also See - List of All Cars Crash Tested By Bharat NCAP - Rating & Details