Kia has truly cracked the code for the Indian market. From the moment the Seltos hit the streets, the brand has been on an unstoppable upward trajectory, consistently delivering stylish, feature-rich vehicles that resonate with buyers. Now, having cemented its position as a dominant force in the mainstream segments, Kia is setting its sights on a new horizon: the premium space. The company is preparing to unleash a trio of vehicles designed to challenge established luxury players and elevate the brand’s image. This isn’t just about launching new cars; it’s a bold statement of intent. The lineup of upcoming Kia premium SUVs is set to redefine what we expect from the brand. Let’s dive into everything we know about these exciting upcoming Kia premium SUVs.
Upcoming Kia Premium SUVs
The excitement surrounding the upcoming Kia premium SUVs is about more than just new sheet metal; it represents a fundamental shift in Kia’s strategy for India. This new wave of vehicles showcases the brand’s global engineering prowess, cutting edge design philosophy, and deep commitment to future mobility, particularly with its flagship EV. For consumers, this translates into greater choice in the luxury segment, offering a compelling blend of Korean innovation, world class features, and head turning style. From a massive all electric family hauler to a rugged lifestyle pickup, this diverse portfolio of upcoming Kia premium SUVs is crafted to cater to a wide range of aspirations, proving that premium no longer means predictable.
| Model Name | Expected Launch (India) | Key Highlights | Expected Price (Ex-showroom) |
| Kia EV9 | Late 2025 / Early 2026 | All electric, 3 row seating, futuristic design, V2L tech, 500km+ range | ₹80 Lakh – ₹1 Crore |
| Kia Tasman | 2026 | Kia’s first pickup truck, rugged ladder frame chassis, bold styling, premium interiors | ₹25 Lakh – ₹35 Lakh |
| Kia Carnival (Next Gen) | Mid to Late 2025 | SUV inspired design, hybrid powertrain option, luxurious cabin, advanced features | ₹40 Lakh – ₹50 Lakh |
1. Kia EV9 The All Electric Flagship
The Kia EV9 is arguably the most important and anticipated of the upcoming Kia premium SUVs. It’s a full size, three row electric SUV that serves as the brand’s technological showcase.
Futuristic Design and ‘Opposites United’ Philosophy
The EV9 looks like it drove straight out of a sci-fi movie. Its design is governed by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy, which results in a vehicle that is both incredibly modern and classically rugged. The front features a stunning digital “Tiger Face” and unique vertical “Star Map” LED DRLs, creating a signature look that’s impossible to miss. The overall shape is boxy and imposing, but clean lines and flush surfaces give it a sleek, aerodynamic feel. It’s a design that commands attention and clearly positions the EV9 at the top of the automotive food chain.
A Cabin from the Future
The magic continues inside. Thanks to the E-GMP electric platform, the EV9 has a completely flat floor, opening up a cavernous, lounge like interior. The dashboard is dominated by a single, elegant panel housing two 12.3 inch screens for the driver’s display and infotainment. A unique party trick is the second row seats, which can swivel 180 degrees to face the third row, creating a conference room style layout. Kia has also focused on sustainability, using recycled and plant based materials throughout the cabin without sacrificing a premium feel.
Powertrain and Performance
For India, the EV9 is expected to arrive in its top spec, dual motor, All Wheel Drive (AWD) configuration. This version is powered by a hefty 99.8 kWh battery pack, promising a real world range of over 500 kilometers on a full charge. Performance is brisk, with the dual motors producing nearly 380 bhp and enabling a 0-100 km/h time of around 6 seconds. Critically, its 800V electrical architecture allows for ultra fast DC charging, potentially adding over 200 km of range in just 15 minutes.
2. Kia Tasman The Lifestyle Pickup Challenger
Kia is taking a bold leap into a new segment with the Tasman, its first ever pickup truck. This isn’t just a workhorse; it’s being positioned as a rugged lifestyle vehicle for adventure enthusiasts.
Entering a New Segment
The Tasman will go head to head with established players like the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max V-Cross in India’s growing lifestyle pickup market. Kia’s strategy will be to differentiate the Tasman by offering its signature blend of bold design, premium interiors, and a long list of features, something often lacking in this segment. It will be built on a tough, body on frame chassis, giving it the authentic capability that buyers demand.
Rugged and Ready Design
Based on spy shots and official teasers, the Tasman will be a properly tough looking truck. Expect a muscular, squared off design with a large grille, prominent wheel arches, and an aggressive stance. It will likely borrow styling cues from Kia’s larger SUVs like the Telluride, ensuring it has a premium and modern feel while still looking like it can handle any terrain you throw at it.
Engine and Capability
Powering the Tasman will likely be Kia’s reliable 2.2 litre CRDi diesel engine, known for its strong torque delivery. This will be crucial for both off roading and hauling heavy loads. An automatic transmission and a robust 4×4 system with a low range transfer case are expected to be standard, making the Tasman a seriously capable machine when the pavement ends.
3. Kia Carnival (Next Gen) The SUV Styled Grand Utility Vehicle
The Carnival has long been the default choice for anyone seeking ultimate space and comfort. The next generation model keeps that DNA but wraps it in a much more desirable, SUV inspired package.
A Complete Design Overhaul
The biggest change for the new Carnival is its look. Kia has ditched the traditional MPV silhouette for a design that is much more aligned with a large, premium SUV. The front end is more upright and aggressive, featuring a wide grille and sharp, L-shaped LED headlights. The result is a vehicle that has significantly more road presence and will appeal to buyers who need the space of an MPV but want the style of an SUV.
Luxury and Space Redefined
Inside, the new Carnival gets a major technological and luxury upgrade. The cabin will feature a modern, curved display for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, similar to the EV9. You can expect even plusher materials, enhanced comfort features like ventilated seats and a large sunroof, and a full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Of course, its legendary space and practical seating configurations will remain its core strength.
New Powertrain Options
While the tried and tested 2.2 litre diesel engine is expected to continue, the next gen Carnival may also introduce a hybrid powertrain to the lineup. A combination of a turbo petrol engine and an electric motor would provide a silent, smooth, and more efficient driving experience, further enhancing its luxury credentials and making it a unique proposition in its class. These upcoming Kia premium SUVs are poised to make a significant impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When is the Kia EV9 expected to launch in India?
The Kia EV9 is anticipated to launch in India either in late 2025 or early 2026. It will likely arrive as a CBU (Completely Built Unit) import initially, which will place it in a premium price bracket.
2. Will the Kia Tasman be a proper off roader?
Absolutely. The Kia Tasman is being built on a rugged ladder frame chassis and is expected to come with a proper 4×4 system, including a low range transfer case. This hardware will give it serious off road capability, similar to its main rivals.
3. What is the biggest change in the new Kia Carnival?
The most significant change for the next generation Kia Carnival is its exterior design. Kia has moved away from the traditional MPV look to a much more robust and stylish SUV inspired design to broaden its appeal.
4. Will these new Kia models be manufactured in India?
Initially, the Kia EV9 and the new Carnival are expected to be brought to India as CBU imports. The Kia Tasman has a higher chance of being assembled locally (CKD – Completely Knocked Down) to keep its price competitive in the pickup segment.
5. How will the Kia EV9 compete with other luxury EVs?
The Kia EV9 will compete by offering a unique combination of three row seating, standout futuristic design, and cutting edge 800V charging technology. Its sheer size and flexible, lounge like interior will be major selling points against rivals like the BMW iX, Volvo EX90, and Mercedes Benz EQB.
