Kia Clavis Unveiled: A Look at India’s Upcoming Compact SUV

Kia is gearing up to introduce a new compact SUV to the Indian market, the Kia Clavis. Slated for a late 2024 unveiling and an early 2025 launch, the Clavis is expected to slot between the popular Sonet and Seltos models. This new offering promises to cater to the growing demand for stylish and feature-packed SUVs in the subcontinent. Here’s a comprehensive look at everything we know so far about the upcoming Kia Clavis.

Positioning and Design

The Kia Clavis will occupy the space between the Sonet and Seltos, offering a balance between their dimensions and features. Based on spy shots, the Clavis is expected to have a boxy silhouette with a flat roofline and functional roof rails. The design language might borrow elements from the Kia EV9, particularly the vertical taillights. While details remain scarce, expect a bolder and more rugged aesthetic compared to the Sonet, emphasizing its SUV character.

Powertrain Options

Kia is likely to equip the Clavis with multiple powertrain options to cater to a wider audience. The internal combustion engine (ICE) variants are expected to be launched first, followed by an electric version.

• ICE: Petrol and diesel engine options are a possibility. Rumors suggest a 1.0-liter turbo petrol engine or a 1.5-liter diesel engine could be offered. A naturally aspirated petrol engine similar to the Sonet or Seltos might be included for a competitive starting price. Both manual and automatic transmissions are likely to be available.
• Electric: Details about the electric Clavis are limited, but expect Kia to leverage its existing EV technology to create a compelling offering in this growing segment.

Features and Safety

While official information is scarce, the Clavis is expected to inherit Kia’s reputation for offering a generous feature set. This might include a sunroof, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a 360-degree camera, rain-sensing wipers, and a comprehensive suite of safety features like airbags, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability control.

Launch Timeline and Price

The Kia Clavis is anticipated to be unveiled in India by the end of 2024, with a launch following in early 2025. Pricing details haven’t been revealed yet, but expect it to be positioned slightly above the Sonet.

Competition

The Kia Clavis will enter a highly competitive segment brimming with established players like the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Venue, Tata Nexon, and Mahindra XUV300. Its success will hinge on offering a compelling combination of design, features, performance, and competitive pricing.

Kia’s Growing SUV Portfolio

The Clavis marks another exciting addition to Kia’s burgeoning SUV portfolio in India. With established models like the Sonet and Seltos, the arrival of the Clavis further strengthens Kia’s presence in the compact SUV segment. This strategic move caters to the diverse needs of Indian car buyers and positions Kia as a major player in the ever-evolving Indian automobile landscape.

The upcoming Kia Clavis holds immense potential to shake up the compact SUV segment in India. With its anticipated features, design language, and diverse powertrain options, the Clavis is definitely a car to watch out for in the coming months.