Maruti Ertiga-rivalling 7-seat Kia MPV has been spotted testing and might launch as early as 2022. For the longest time, Maruti Ertiga has been the one to beat because of its massive popularity in the MPV segment. Mahindra Marazzo tried to challenge the Ertiga but was not received well by the customers. No other carmaker has tried to get into this segment ever since. Kia, being the fastest carmaker to surpass 3,00,000 sales in India, has decided to take up this challenge and launch an MPV in that very segment. The good news is that we might not have to wait too long for it. Having been spotted testing multiple times now, the Kia might show the production-ready version in January 2022. Let us look at what we can deduce from the spy images.
Also read: Watch India-Bound All-New Kia Carnival Interiors Reveal In VIDEO!
Ertiga-Rival 7-Seat Kia MPV Launch
Codenamed KY, the 7-seat Kia MPV has been heavily camouflaged but the overall silhouette and headlamps are somewhat visible. We know that it will be based on the same platform as the Seltos albeit in a modified version. This will ensure a longer wheelbase for the added extra row of seating. It is exactly what Hyundai did with Alcazar. The extended length of the MPV is visible in the images as well. The headlamps seem to get inspiration from Sonet, with the heartbeat-shaped LED DRLs, sleek headlamp unit and large front grille. The fog lamp unit will occupy its traditional position on either side of the bumper. The side profile showcases the stylish alloy wheels, roof rails and a broad window line. One can catch the glimpse of taillamps at the rear along with an integrated roof spoiler and shark fin antenna. All in all, the MPV will sport the traditional Kia design language with modern elements.
Also read: This Is What Ford India’s Kia Seltos Rival Could Look Like!
Expected Specs
The Kia MPV might come with two powertrain options. This includes a 1.5-litre diesel engine making 115 PS and 250 Nm and a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine good for 115 PS and 144 Nm of peak power and torque respectively. In case you notice, these are identical engines as one gets in the Seltos which might be the best way to go for Kia to keep the costs competitive. There might be options of either a 6-speed manual or an automatic gearbox. Additionally, there might be a 1.4-litre turbo direction injection petrol engine producing 140 PS and 242 Nm. The Kia MPV will be strategically positioned to fill in the gap between Maruti Ertiga and Toyota Innova Crysta. The prices might also be somewhere in the vicinity of Seltos.
Also read: Kia Seltos Diesel Idle Mileage Test With AC – Cheaper Than Maruti Baleno!
Image Source: Kendara
