Kia prepares major updates for the Indian market with the Carens facelift arriving in coming months featuring ADAS and possible 30-inch display, while the second-generation Seltos with potential hybrid powertrain is scheduled for H2 2025.
Kia Motors is gearing up for significant updates to its Indian lineup as part of its ambitious expansion strategy that includes growing its electric vehicle portfolio, increasing production capacity, and expanding its dealer network. Among the planned updates are the EV6 facelift, Carens facelift, and the second-generation Seltos, all scheduled to launch by the end of 2025. The refreshed EV6, which was showcased at this year's Bharat Mobility show, is expected to hit the market in the next couple of months.
Both the 2025 Kia Carens facelift and the all-new Seltos are currently undergoing extensive testing and have been spotted multiple times during road tests. These spy images have revealed several exciting details about the upcoming models.
1.2025 Kia Carens Facelift: Coming Soon
The updated Carens will receive subtle styling enhancements, but the most significant upgrades will be found inside the cabin. This compact MPV will be equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite and a 360-degree camera for enhanced safety and convenience.
According to rumors, the 2025 Carens facelift might feature the impressive 30-inch Trinity Panoramic display borrowed from the Syros. This state-of-the-art display system combines a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 5-inch digital climate control display. Additional expected features include ventilated second-row seats and premium upholstery materials.
In terms of exterior design, the new Carens will sport EV5-inspired triangular-shaped headlamps, redesigned LED lighting elements, and a revised front bumper. The side profile will likely remain largely unchanged except for newly designed alloy wheels.
At the rear, expect a slightly revised bumper and vertically positioned LED taillamps connected by an LED light bar.
Mechanically, the 2025 Carens will retain its current powertrain lineup:
1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine (115PS/144Nm)
1.5L turbo petrol engine (160PS/253Nm)
1.5L diesel engine (116PS/250Nm)
A 6-speed manual transmission will be standard across the range, while the turbo petrol variant will continue to offer a 7-speed DCT option, and the diesel variant will retain the 6-speed automatic transmission choice.
Launch Timeline: Coming Months
2. 2025 Kia Seltos: Second-Generation Overhaul
The second-generation Kia Seltos is expected to make a significant leap with the potential addition of a hybrid powertrain. Reports suggest Kia might employ a 1.6L petrol engine coupled with a rear-axle mounted electric motor, which would make the Seltos Kia's first hybrid offering in the Indian market.
The existing engine options will also carry forward, including:
1.5L MPi petrol engine (115PS/144Nm)
1.5L turbo petrol engine (160PS/253Nm)
1.5L diesel engine (116PS/250Nm)
Design-wise, the 2025 Seltos will draw inspiration from the globally sold Kia Telluride. Notable exterior changes will likely include a redesigned front grille and bumper, new LED headlamps with updated LED DRLs, revised taillamps featuring triangular-shaped elements, new alloy wheels, and updated wheel arches.
The interior is expected to receive a comprehensive update with a multi-layered dashboard design, a new two-spoke steering wheel, revised door trims and headrests, an enhanced ambient lighting system, and fresh dual-tone seat upholstery.
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