Kia Clavis Spotted Testing in India for the First Time

• Published On: 15 March 2024
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Kia has not announced the launch timeline, but it is expected to unveil the new Clavis SUV by the end of 2024.

Kia is planning to unveil a new compact SUV in the Indian market. The brand has started testing the Clavis SUV on Indian roads. The auto marque has already trademarked the name Clavis in the country. The new model will slot between the famous Seltos and Sonet. As of now, Kia has not announced the launch timeline, but it is expected to unveil the new Clavis SUV by the end of 2024. The EV and ICE versions of the Kia Clavis are expected to share the same platform. Spy images of the SUV suggest that the new model will come with short overhangs and a boxy design, along with high ground clearance.

The test mule has been witnessed for the first time in India. It was covered in heavy camouflage to hide major design elements. However, a few details can be noticed from the images. The SUV will have a boxy shape along with bigger vertical LED daytime running lamps. The Clavis will come in a five-seater configuration, and it is likely to measure around 4.2 m in length.

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In terms of style language, the upcoming model shares a bit with the company’s flagship electric vehicle, the Kia EV9. The tail lamps at the rear are placed vertically. The new model is likely to get a rear wiper as well. The sports utility vehicle has a set of roof rails, which can be there for cosmetic purposes, or they can also be functional. The window area appears to be quite large. The Clavis rolls a new pair of four-spoke alloy wheels.

Inside the cabin, the Clavis is likely to get ventilated seats, a large touchscreen, a sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and more. The Kia Clavis is likely to come with both a petrol and an EV powertrain. The Korean brand could offer the SUV with two engines: a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The EV maker is one of the last automakers to still provide a diesel engine with its models.

The 1.0-litre turbo petrol churns out maximum power of 118 bhp and 172 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed iMT and a 7-speed dual-clutch AT transmission. On the other hand, the 1.5-litre diesel engine comes with a 6-speed torque converter AT transmission and a 6-speed manual gearbox.