KIA x Auto Expo 2023
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Following their theme of “An Inspiring Tomorrow”, Kia India put their best foot forward at the Auto Expo 2023, bringing together and showcasing the best of their current lineup while also giving visitors a glimpse into what it will be bringing to the market in the near future.
On display at the KIA pavilion:
- Kia EV9 Concept: The EV9 concept, based on the same underpinnings as the EV7, offers visitors a preview of what future offerings from the manufacturer could look like. The boxy yet angular design, rigid construction and mammoth size of the pure electric EV9 Concept SUV, makes a futuristic statement. The innovative headlamp design, large Kia logo, and the reinterpreted tiger-nose design of the grille makes for a striking front end, and is an indication of how future Kia EVs would look like. On the sides, the B-pillars and visible door handles have been omitted for a clean and streamlined look, and the Rolls-Royce style rear-hinged doors and three pointed alloy design make for a stunning profile. At the back, long vertically oriented tail lamps round out what is undoubtedly a head turning design, and although some of these elements will not make it to the production version, it’s great to see the adventurous design direction that Kia is taking for its future offerings.
- Kia KA4: After months of speculation and two years after its global unveiling, Kia has showcased the KA4 for the Indian market. Also known as the Carnival in overseas markets, the KA4 will essentially be the next generation Carnival when launched in India. Kia has taken an edgier approach to the KA4’s exterior when compared to the current generation Carnival, with styling cues that lend it a more aggressive SUV-like design. On the inside, the KA4 comes with more tech than before, with two large infotainment screens dominating the dashboard. Coupled with powered seats and enhanced ADAS features, the KA4 will surely provide a more premium and luxurious experience when launched later this year.
- Kia EV6: Also on display is the Kia EV6, the company’s first EV offering in India. Launched last year with much fanfare, the EV6 has done extremely well in the global market and also sold out 200 units in almost no time when it was launched in India last year.
- Kia Seltos and Sonet X-Line: As in the last edition of the Auto Expo, Kia showcased the X-Line variant of its bestseller, the Seltos, although this year it was accompanied by its smaller sibling, the Sonet X-Line. The X-Line variants of the Seltos and Sonet have a slew of cosmetic changes to lend a more rugged look to the cars, including an exclusive paint scheme, alloy wheel design and minor changes to the interior and feature list.
- Kia Carens PBV: Kia also showcased its new range of PBVs (Purpose Build Vehicles) in a bid to address the needs of India’s social services, including a Carens Patrol Car and Ambulance.
Additional zones:
- In addition the aforementioned vehicle displays, the Kia pavilion at the Auto Expo also had its share of unique and interactive exhibits designed to allow visitors to interact with the brand in other innovative ways. This included the EV6 Experience which allows visitors to drive the EV6 in an immersive hoverboard game, the Kia Connect zone which introduces viewers to the Kia’s connected car features, an interactive history wall and the Kia Sustainability Movement zone.
