- Test mule of Kia Carnival Facelift spied with heavy camouflage.
- The MPV will take design inspiration from the upcoming EV9.
- Will likely carry heavy alterations to the exterior design.
Kia India is ready to showcase the latest 4th generation of its premium MPV, the Kia Carnival at the 2023 Auto Expo. Launched globally in the year 2020, the model is nearly 3 years old and due for a much-needed facelift. In line with this, Kia has started the testing of the Carnival Facelift and the test mule of the MPV has been spied testing in South Korea. For reference, the Kia Carnival selling in India is the 3rd generation model which retails in the price range of Rs. 30.99 lakh to Rs. 35.49 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also Read: Kia India Line-Up For The 2023 Auto Expo: All Details
Kia Carnival Facelift: What's New?
By having a look at the spy shots of the Kia Carnival Facelift that have surfaced online, it is very clear that the MPV is covered from the front, side and rear. This suggests that most of the changes to the exterior design will be made to the front fascia as well as to the rear profile. The facelifted model will take design inspiration from the brand's upcoming flagship electric SUV, the EV9. This essentially means its front fascia design will be something in line with the EV's 'Digital Tiger Face'.
As seen in the spy images, the test car features a vertically stacked headlight setup with multiple LED units. Furthermore, we can also spot the horizontal LED DRLs, prominent front grille and Kia's iconic Tiger Nose element. The rear profile will also sport a similar sort of changes, however, there are no images to confirm the statement. Inside the cabin, Kia is expected to carry out minute changes along with the introduction of new features.
Kia Carnival Facelift: Powertrain
If media reports are something to go by, the Kia Carnival Facelift will be powered by a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine putting out 177 bhp and 265 Nm of peak torque, mated to an electric motor (59 bhp). The combined power output from the hybrid system stands at 227 bhp and 350 Nm of peak torque. This powertrain setup also powers the Kia Sorento and Hyundai Santa Fe, sold in international markets.
Also Read: Kia EV9 Concept To Debut At 2023 Auto Expo: What We Know
Verdict: While Kia is working on a facelift of the latest generation Kia Carnival, in India, the new generation model will be showcased at the Auto Expo, with its market launch scheduled for a later date. The upcoming 2023 Kia Carnival will be powered by the familiar 2.2-litre diesel engine and Kia may consider the strong hybrid powertrain for India spect model after some years, with the launch of the facelift in the country.
