Vipul Singh also recently caught a camera-shy 2024 Kia Carnival at Delhi Airport, offering gearheads something to watch for. The next generation of the Carnival that was shown at the 2023 Auto Expo as KA4 will be launched in India on October 3, 2024.
The Latest 2024 Kia Carnival
Kia is bringing the 4th-generation Carnival to India as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) due in August, but local assembly won’t start until next year. The latter, however, is likely to have us shell out top dollar right from the beginning — in all probability upwards of ₹50-60 lakhs thanks to import taxes and duties imposed on CBU vehicles.
Newly designed for 2024, the Carnival follows Kia’s new design inspiration coming from its flagship SUV, EV9. They are joined by a new front grille, vertical LED headlamps, and L-shaped LED DRLs. At the back, you get LED tail lamps connected by a light bar for that modern feeling. Inside, the Carnival has been upgraded with a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a matching touchscreen infotainment system, and redesigned climate controls.
It also receives a head-up display unit, digital rearview mirror, and ambient lighting among other features as well as a front and rear dash camera system. The vehicle also promises ventilated and massage seats, as well as a specific entertainment package for the rear seats signaling it is not here to shy away from competing in the luxury MPV segment.
While the global market has three engine options for the Carnival, India is expected to receive the 2.2-liter diesel engine, producing 201 hp and 440 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This configuration is anticipated to deliver a balance of performance and efficiency suited to Indian driving conditions.
Despite its higher pricing, the Carnival is set to carve out a unique niche in the Indian market, with minimal direct competition. The Toyota Vellfire is the only comparable vehicle, but it is significantly more expensive, starting at ₹1.22 crores (ex-showroom). As the launch date approaches, the new Kia Carnival is expected to makThe launch is scheduled for October 3, 2024.e a significant impact in the luxury MPV market in India.
