The new generation Kia Carnival will be imported to India directly via CBU initially
Kia is all set to launch the new Carnival MPV in India by October this year. The model was showcased at the Auto Expo as the KA4 concept and will initially be imported as a completely built unit (CBU). Local assembly is expected to begin next year, which could impact the pricing structure.
Due to its status as a CBU import, the new Carnival will attract substantial import duties. This has led to expectations that prices will start around Rs. 50 lakhs (ex-showroom) with some dealers suggesting a starting price as high as Rs. 60 lakhs (ex-showroom). Despite the premium pricing, the Carnival will not have a direct competitor in this range.
It will serve as a more affordable, albeit slightly less luxurious, alternative to high-end MPVs like the Toyota Vellfire, which starts at Rs. 1.22 crores (ex-showroom). The next most expensive MPV currently available is the Toyota Innova Hycross, with prices going up to Rs. 30.98 lakhs (ex-showroom).
The Carnival sold in international markets will come with three engine options – a 3.5-litre petrol V6, a 1.6-litre petrol hybrid and a 2.2-litre diesel. For the Indian market, Kia is expected to continue with the 201 hp 2.2-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine that was previously available in the older generation. Additionally, the new Carnival could come with multiple seating configurations including 7-, 9- and 11-seat options, although the India-specific configurations are yet to be confirmed.
The updated Carnival includes several new features such as 12.3-inch screens, reworked controls, rotary drive selector, front and rear dash cameras, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, updated digital key, ambient lighting along the dash and more.
With a launch scheduled for October, dealers are anticipating deliveries to begin before Diwali. Apart from the Carnival, Kia India is also gearing up to introduce the EV9 full-size electric SUV sometime this year.
What do you think about the price expectations of the new Carnival? Would you buy it at this price point or wait for the price correction when it is locally assembled in India next year? Let us know in the comments section below.
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