Kia is set to enter the Indian market in 2019. Gearing up for its Indian launch, the company has been conducting a 'Dealer Roadshow' to showcase its model range to potential dealers. However, none of those vehicles will be the first one to come to India.
Overdrive reports that the first Kia product to be launched in India will be a sub-4 metre compact SUV. Speaking to the publication at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, Kia's President and Chief Development Officer, Peter Schreyer, said the company's first product is likely to be a sub-4m SUV. The Indian market is big on SUVs and crossovers and Kia wants their first product to take full advantage of that. The Kia sub-4 metre SUV could share the platform, engines and more with the Hyundai Carliono sub-4 metre SUV due in H1 2019.
The report adds that Kia has confirmed that it is developing India-centric products. Aside from SUVs, the company feels there is strong demand for sedans as well. The company has already acquired 536 acres of land in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh in order to setup a manufacturing facility as well as ancillary parts factories. The plant, aside from producing cars for the domestic market, is likely to cater to export markets as well.
Also See: Kia Picanto X-Line unveiled at IAA 2017 – Live
The Kia sub-4m SUV is expected to arrive in India in 2019. Kia will showcase some of the models from its international line-up at the 2018 Auto Expo scheduled to kick off on February 9.
[Source - Overdrive]
