Kia Launches All-new Carnival and EV9 at Eye-Watering Prices

In a move that’s sure to have automotive enthusiasts and industry pundits alike scratching their heads, Kia has unveiled its latest high-end offerings for the Indian market – the all-new Carnival MPV and the flagship EV9 electric SUV. With price tags that would make even the most deep-pocketed buyers do a double-take, these two vehicles aim to position Kia as a true contender in the premium segment, challenging the dominance of established luxury players. The question remains as to whether the South Korean brand has the allure to attract buyers at its sky-high prices.

Kia Carnival: A Family car for the Road

The fourth-generation Kia Carnival has arrived in India, priced at a staggering Rs 63.90 lakh (ex-showroom). This MPV is clearly targeting a very specific, well-heeled audience who prioritize comfort, technology, and a touch of exclusivity over practicality and affordability.

However, given how the previous-gen Carnival was priced in the mid-30 lakh region, the pricing of this one might be a tough pill to swallow, with the Carnival potentially over before the party even started.

Nevertheless, let’s take a look at its specs.

A Regal Presence, Inside and Out

The new Carnival sports a bolder, more angular design that exudes a sense of sophistication and command on the road. The signature “Tiger Nose” grille, vertically stacked LED headlamps, and sleek LED taillights give it a striking, almost intimidating appearance. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a plush, dual-tone cabin that oozes luxury, from the 2+2+3 seating layout to the power-adjustable second-row captain’s chairs with heating and ventilation.

Cutting-Edge Tech and Creature Comforts

Kia has spared no expense in equipping the Carnival with the latest bells and whistles. The dual 12.3-inch curved displays, 11-inch head-up display, and 12-speaker Bose sound system ensure that the driver and passengers are surrounded by the latest in-car technology. And let’s not forget the powered tailgate, powered sliding rear doors, and an array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that add to the overall sense of opulence.

Powering the Luxury Experience

Under the hood, the Carnival packs a 2.2-liter diesel engine that produces an adequate 193 hp and 441 Nm of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain promises a blend of performance and efficiency, though it’s unlikely that many Carnival owners will be pushing the limits of their MPV’s capabilities.

Kia EV9: The Electric Flagship Redefining Luxury

If the Carnival wasn’t enough to showcase Kia’s ambitions in the premium segment, the automaker has now unveiled its flagship electric SUV, the EV9, at a staggering price of Rs 1.3 crore (ex-showroom). This bold move positions the EV9 as a direct challenger to the likes of the Mercedes EQS SUV, BMW iX, and Audi Q8 e-tron.

Striking Exterior, Opulent Interior

The EV9’s exterior design is a striking blend of futuristic and rugged, with its vertically stacked LED headlamps, closed-off grille, and clean, minimalist lines. Step inside, and you’re enveloped in a luxurious cabin that features a dual-screen display, a four-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo, and a dual-tone Brown and Black color scheme.

Uncompromising Performance and Range

Under the EV9’s bold exterior lies a powertrain that packs a serious punch. Dual electric motors, powered by a 99.8 kWh battery pack, produce a combined output of 384 hp and 700 Nm of torque, propelling the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds. And with a claimed ARAI-certified range of 561 km, the EV9 ensures that you can travel in comfort and style without range anxiety.

Cutting-Edge Tech and Unparalleled Luxury

Kia has spared no expense in equipping the EV9 with a host of premium features, including a 14-speaker Meridian audio system, a digital inside rearview mirror, and a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The 6-seater layout, with adjustable and massaging second-row captain’s chairs, further reinforces the EV9’s status as a true luxury offering.

Targeting the Discerning Elite

With the launch of the Carnival and EV9, Kia has made it clear that it’s no longer content with being a purveyor of affordable, practical vehicles. The automaker is now setting its sights on the upper echelons of the Indian automotive market, where exclusivity, technology, and sheer opulence reign supreme.

By pricing the Carnival and EV9 at levels that put them in direct competition with the likes of the Toyota Innova, Toyota Vellfire, Mercedes EQS SUV, and BMW iX, Kia is sending a clear message: it’s ready to take on the established luxury players and offer an alternative to the discerning, deep-pocketed buyer who is willing to pay a premium for the latest in-car technology, uncompromising luxury, and a touch of exclusivity.

It will be fascinating to see how the Carnival and EV9 fare against the competition and whether Kia’s bold move into the luxury realm will pay off in the long run. Kia has firmly established itself as a brand to watch, with some excellent offerings, but one can’t help but feel that at these prices, these two Kia’s are DOA.