Kia, already well-established in India with popular models like the Sonet and Seltos, is planning to further expand its product lineup. An upcoming addition is a new SUV positioned between the Sonet and Seltos, internally referred to as the AY. It is expected to be launched under the name Kia Clavis, a name that was trademarked in December 2023.
Kia Clavis: Spotted Testing in India
The Kia Clavis has been spied on during testing in various international locations since January 2024, and it has now been spotted in India for the first time. The launch is anticipated in the second half of 2024, likely around the festive season.
Despite being heavily camouflaged, the tall and boxy profile of the SUV is evident. The Clavis is expected to be approximately 4.2 meters in length, similar to the Kia Soul. Its design language significantly differs from that of the Sonet and Seltos, with rugged sheet metal formations and a distinctive profile.
Distinctive Design Features
Key design elements of the Kia Clavis include vertically positioned headlamps and DRLs, a clamshell bonnet, flared wheel arches, flush-type door handles, 17-inch sporty alloy wheels, functional roof rails, vertically-positioned tail lamps, and a full-width LED light bar. Large windows promise panoramic views for passengers, and the silhouette seems inspired by Kia's flagship electric vehicle the EV9. The tall, boxy profile ensures a commanding road presence.
Spacious Interior and Advanced Features
The Clavis is expected to offer more space for passengers and luggage compared to the Sonet, with potentially foldable rear seats for added versatility. Kia is known for providing top-notch and segment-first features, so the Clavis might come equipped with dual screens, an electric sunroof, wireless charging, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rear AC vents, USB charging ports at the front and rear, and foldable central armrests. For safety, it is expected to have six airbags and all four disc brakes, with top trims likely featuring ADAS.
Powertrain Options
In line with Kia's focus on electrification, the Clavis is anticipated to be available with both ICE and EV powertrain options, with the ICE versions launching first. The ICE model might be powered by the 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine found in the Sonet, producing 120 PS of maximum power and 172 Nm of peak torque, with 6-speed iMT and 7-speed DCT transmission options.
Details about the Clavis EV model are currently scarce, but a range of approximately 350 to 400 km is a reasonable expectation based on industry standards.