Kia Carnival hybrid pre-bookings open, launch expected soon
Kia India has commenced pre-bookings for the Carnival hybrid, bringing a strong-hybrid powertrain to its premium MPV for the first time in the country. The hybrid version will be offered in the Limousine+ trim, which is currently available with the diesel-powered Carnival.
The company had recently revealed details of the India-spec Carnival hybrid, with its launch expected shortly. Prices are yet to be announced, although the hybrid is expected to command a premium over the existing diesel model, which is priced at Rs 59.65 lakh (ex-showroom).advertisement❮❯ Read Full StoryKia Carnival hybrid gets 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engineThe Carnival hybrid combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The petrol engine produces 180bhp and 265Nm, while the electric motor develops 73.4bhp and 304Nm.
The electric motor is more powerful than the unit used in the Sorento hybrid, with an additional 8.4hp and 40Nm. Kia has retained the 6-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox for the Carnival hybrid.
The existing 2.2-litre diesel engine will continue to be offered alongside the hybrid. It develops 193hp and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.Carnival hybrid gets subtle feature changes
Visually, there is little to distinguish the hybrid from the diesel-powered Carnival. The only notable exterior addition is an HEV badge on the tailgate. The MPV continues with its existing design elements, including the tiger-face grille, vertically stacked LED headlamps, powered sliding doors, 18-inch alloy wheels and connected LED tail-lamps.
The cabin layout also remains unchanged. However, Kia has added a virtual engine sound system and retractable, height-adjustable seat-back tables that incorporate wireless smartphone chargers.
Other equipment continues to include dual 12.3-inch displays, three-zone climate control and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.
Safety equipment on the Carnival hybrid includes eight airbags, Level 2 ADAS, disc brakes on all four wheels and a 360-degree camera.
With pre-bookings now open, Kia is expected to announce the Carnival hybrid's price and launch details soon.
