Clavis to sit between Sonet and Seltos and will likely feature rugged, boxy looks, sources say.
Sources have confirmed that Kia’s upcoming compact SUV, which is due by late 2024, will be called the Clavis. What’s also confirmed is that the new SUV, internally codenamed as Kia AY, will be a high-riding vehicle that’s under four metres in length.
- Multiple powertrains will be on offer
- Expected to go on sale in early 2025
Kia Clavis: what we know so far
Sources tell us that the made-for-India Kia Clavis will see a global debut by the end of 2024 and have multiple powertrain options, including electric, but the internal combustion models are expected to go on sale before the EV. Hybrid options are also expected to be offered.
The Kia Clavis EV will be based on the internal combustion platform modified for EV. Sources tell us that Kia India plans to produce close to 1 lakh units of the AY SUV annually with 80 percent volumes coming from the internal combustion engine-equipped range, with EVs accounting for the remaining. Some of this will also be earmarked for exports.
The Clavis will slot between the Sonet and Seltos in Kia’s India line-up, and, to distinguish it from the Sonet, the manufacturer will position it as a lifestyle vehicle with a tougher SUV-like presence and a boxier design. However, it will not get any 4WD tech.
The Clavis is likely to be one of the last major debuts for Kia India for 2024. Other models lined up for India next year include the born EV EV9 flagship and the new Carnival MPV.
Also see:
Kia evaluating hybrids for India
Kia Sonet facelift deliveries to commence by mid-January