The main market for the new SUV will be India, where the model may be presented as early as next year. At the same time, it is believed that the cross will also be delivered to other countries.
Back at the beginning of 2023, Indian specialized media reported that Kia was preparing a new small SUV with a rather harsh design, then they even named the internal model index – AY. And now the Korean brand has registered the name Clavis in India: it is assumed that this is the name that the upcoming cross will receive.
According to Autocar India, in the Kia range the new product will occupy a niche between the Sonet and Seltos crossovers. At the same time, some media outlets believe that the closest relative of the Kia Clavis will be the small – and also brutal – Hyundai Exter SUV, which launched on the Indian market this summer. And here is the inconsistency. The fact is that Exter opens Hyundai's cross-line, whereas, according to Autocar's logic, it should be located between Hyundai Venue and Creta (essentially, these are analogues of Sonet and Seltos).
Hyundai Exter. At the moment, the SUV is presented only in India, but later it should reach other markets.
Be that as it may, the Kia Clavis is tipped not only for “traditional” versions with an internal combustion engine, but also for hybrid versions and even a fully electric version. Note that the Hyundai Exter is now offered with a 1.2 naturally aspirated petrol engine, plus there is a dual-fuel option. Clavis will not have all-wheel drive – only front-wheel drive (like the Exter).
Production of the new product will be established in India, but the model will not become a local exclusive – they plan to supply it to other countries. It is expected that the Kia Clavis will make its world premiere at the end of next year, and the new crossover will go on sale at the beginning of 2025.
Recent Comments