The compact SUV space, including the sub-4 metre segment, is a highly desirable category for Indian car buyers. Over the last years, OEMs have been trying to encash on the consumer sentiment towards SUVs by bringing in new models that align with the body style.
Kia, the manufacturer of high-selling SUVs like Seltos and Sonet, are planning to bring another compact SUV to the market. A few months ago, the Korean brand filed a trademark for the name ‘Kia Clavis’ in India. Now, the SUV has been spotted testing on Indian roads for the first time.
Kia Clavis: What to expect?
Earlier Clavis was rumoured to be Kia’s iteration of Hyundai Exter and expected to be slotted below Spent in Kia’s lineup. However, with the latest spy images out, the Clavis appears to be larger than Exter. In fact, it appears even longer than Sonet or Hyundai Venue. This indicates that Clavis could bridge the small gap between Sonet and Seltos.
The length of Clavis might be similar to that of the Kia Soul (4196 mm). However, its actual size can only be confirmed once the dimensions are officially revealed. In the recent spy shots, the fully camouflaged test unit gets a boxy profile with a flat roofline, roof rails, tall pillars, and flat front and rear ends. Further, the test mule was seen rolling on machine-cut, dual-tone alloy wheels.
Kia Clavis: Expected powertrain, features
Kia Clavis is expected to get two petrol powertrain options— a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated mill, and a 1.0-litre turbocharged unit. The former kicks out 82 bhp and 113 Nm of peak torque. This unit is paired with a 5-speed manual and AMT gearbox. The sportier 1.0-litre unit pumps out 118 bhp and 172 Nm of peak torque. This motor can be had with either a 6-speed clutchless manual or a 7-speed DCT automatic gearbox.
If Clavis is indeed slotted between Sonet and Seltos, it could also offer a diesel engine too. If Clavis is positioned below Sonet, it might only come with petrol engines. In terms of features, Clavis is likely to come equipped with a large touchscreen, 360-degree camera, an electric sunroof, smartphone connectivity, LED headlights, etc.
