Kia confirms Sonet, Carens Clavis hybrids by 2029

At its 2026 CEO Investor Day event, Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song confirmed that the Sonet and Carens Clavis will have hybrid powertrains in India by 2029. Additionally, the Korean carmaker also announced that it will introduce a locally developed B-segment electric SUV. “From 2027 onwards, we will extend hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) offerings to key local models such as the Sonet, Carens and Seltos while introducing a locally developed B-SUV EV,” said Song.

1. Sonet and Carens Clavis hybrids to arrive with next-gen versions
2. Locally developed and manufactured B-segment SUV to be all-electric
3. Carnival and Sorento hybrids to arrive this year

Kia Sonet, Carens Clavis hybrids: Additional details

Kia’s most affordable model, the Sonet, is slated to enter its next generation in 2027, and it will receive a hybrid powertrain by 2028 or 2029. Exact technical details are unknown at the moment, but the carmaker has been developing a strong-hybrid powertrain for the Sonet, as we previously reported.

The second-generation Sonet will move to the K1 platform that currently underpins the Venue and Syros. This platform will not only be hybrid-compatible but also support the latest electrical and electronics (E&E) architecture, enabling over-the-air updates and remote diagnostics while also addressing the lack of rear-seat space in the current version.

The Kia Carens Clavis will also get a hybrid powertrain in its next-generation version by 2029. Currently, the MPV is offered with naturally aspirated petrol, turbo petrol, diesel and all-electric powertrains. However, it is expected to utilise the setup from the Seltos hybrid, which is due in 2027. Our sources suggest that the Seltos hybrid is expected to be based on the existing 115hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine.

Kia B-segment electric SUV: Additional details

Previously, we reported that Kia has been evaluating a B-segment SUV, and we have now learnt that it will be electric. Secondly, the SUV will be developed and made locally. Specifications for this model are yet to be finalised. We expect it to slot in between the Syros and the Seltos, likely measuring around 4.2 metres in length. It will be Kia’s contender in the growing midsize electric SUV space.

Kia Carnival hybrid: Additional details

Kia has also confirmed that the Carnival hybrid is set for a launch sometime this year. While exact technical details remain under wraps, the global-spec Carnival strong-hybrid is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a hybrid system. It develops a combined output of 242hp and 367Nm, while power is sent to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

By 2030, the Korean carmaker plans to expand its line-up to 10 models comprising ICE, hybrid and EV-powered offerings. Of these, eight models will be electrified, Song stated.