Kia came in strong. No slow start. No playing safe. From Day 1, it delivered cars that stood out. Bold designs. Packed with features. Built to turn heads.
But choosing one? That’s where it gets tricky. SUVs, MPVs, electric. Each serves a different purpose.
Specs help. But they don’t tell you everything. How they drive. How they feel on long roads. What they cost to own. That’s what really matters.
Let’s break it down. Piece by piece. Model by model. Until the choice is clear.
Size. Space. Comfort.
Size isn’t just about length. It affects space, road presence, and ease of driving. Here’s how Kia’s lineup stacks up.
Dimensions & Road Presence
| Model | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Wheelbase (mm) | Ground Clearance (mm) |
| Kia Sonet | 3,995 mm | 1,790 mm | 1,642 mm | 2,500 mm | 205 mm |
| Kia Seltos | 4,315 mm | 1,800 mm | 1,645 mm | 2,610 mm | 190 mm |
| Kia Carens | 4,540 mm | 1,800 mm | 1,708 mm | 2,780 mm | 195 mm |
| Kia EV6 | 4,695 mm | 1,890 mm | 1,550 mm | 2,900 mm | 178 mm |
- Sonet is compact. Best for cities. Smallest turning radius.
- Seltos is balanced. Bigger than Sonet, but still manageable in traffic.
- Carens has the longest wheelbase. More legroom, but harder to park.
- EV6 is the biggest overall. More width and wheelbase than any Kia.
Interior Space & Seating Comfort
| Model | Seating Capacity | Legroom (mm) | Rear Shoulder Room (mm) | Headroom (mm) |
| Sonet | 5-Seater | 850 mm (Rear) | 1,380 mm | 980 mm |
| Seltos | 5-Seater | 950 mm (Rear) | 1,430 mm | 1,020 mm |
| Carens | 6/7-Seater | 930 mm (2nd Row) / 800 mm (3rd Row) | 1,430 mm (2nd Row) | 1,010 mm |
| EV6 | 5-Seater | 880 mm (Rear) | 1,420 mm | 980 mm |
- Seltos offers the best second-row space in 5-seater models.
- Carens wins on flexibility. More seats or more cargo, depending on the need.
- Sonet’s rear seat is compact. Good for two, tight for three adults.
- EV6 is wide but lower in height. Feels premium, but headroom is limited.
Boot Space: Who Fits More Luggage?
| Model | Boot Space (L) | With Rear Seats Folded |
| Sonet | 392L | ~1,100L |
| Seltos | 433L | ~1,200L |
| Carens | 216L (with all rows up) / 645L (3rd row down) | ~1,500L |
| EV6 | 520L + 20L (Front Trunk) | 1,300L |
- Carens leads with max space. The third-row seat folds flat when not needed.
- EV6 has a ‘frunk.’ Extra 20L storage since it has no engine.
- Seltos gives the best boot space in a 5-seater. Good for family road trips.
- Sonet is practical but limited. Works for city use, but tight for long vacations.
Ground Clearance & Bad Road Handling
| Model | Ground Clearance (mm) | Real-World Performance |
| Sonet | 205 mm | Best for city + mild off-road |
| Seltos | 190 mm | Smooth ride, but low speed breakers need caution |
| Carens | 195 mm | Handles rough roads better than Seltos |
| EV6 | 178 mm | Best for highways, not meant for rough terrain |
- Sonet handles speed breakers best. The highest ground clearance.
- Carens is better for bad roads. More height, but still a long car.
- Seltos is comfortable on highways. But steep ramps need careful driving.
- EV6 is the lowest. No problem on highways, but rough patches need caution.
More from Kia? Do Read: Kia EV9 Electric SUV launched in India at ₹ 1.30 Crore
Best Kia Cars in India: Power, Performance & Mileage
Are you looking for a punchy drive or something more economical? Kia has options to suit every taste. Here’s how the engines stack up in terms of power and efficiency.
Engine Options: What’s Under the Hood?
| Model | Engine | Power (PS) | Torque (Nm) | Transmission | Fuel Type |
| Kia Sonet | 1.2L Petrol | 83PS | 115Nm | 5MT / CVT | Petrol |
| Kia Sonet | 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 120PS | 172Nm | iMT / DCT | Petrol |
| Kia Seltos | 1.5L Petrol | 115PS | 144Nm | 6MT / CVT / iMT | Petrol |
| Kia Seltos | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 160PS | 253Nm | iMT / DCT | Petrol |
| Kia Carens | 1.5L Petrol | 115PS | 144Nm | 6MT / CVT | Petrol |
| Kia Carens | 1.5L Diesel | 115PS | 250Nm | 6MT / AT | Diesel |
| Kia EV6 | Electric Motor | 170PS | 350Nm | Single-Speed | Electric |
- Sonet (1.0L Turbo Petrol) – Peppy. Great for city drives. Quick acceleration with a lively feel.
- Seltos (1.5L Turbo Petrol) – Powerful. Excellent for highway cruising. Smooth overtakes, strong mid-range power.
- Carens (1.5L Diesel) – The torque is king. Great for long trips, effortless cruising on highways.
- EV6 – Instant torque from an electric motor. Quiet but responsive. Great for city and highway.
Performance: What’s the Experience of Driving Best Kia Cars in India Like?
- Sonet (1.2L Petrol) – Best for daily commuting. Doesn’t feel underpowered, but it’s not built for fast overtakes.
- Sonet (1.0L Turbo Petrol) – For those who like a zippy city ride. Quick to accelerate, nimble, and a joy for city traffic.
- Seltos (1.5L Petrol) – Smooth. For those who value refined performance on highways and a comfortable commute.
- Seltos (1.5L Turbo Petrol) – Performance at its peak. Strong mid-range, ideal for highway cruising and long-distance driving.
- Carens (1.5L Diesel) – Best for family road trips. Diesel engine has enough torque to handle long drives with ease.
- EV6 – Fast and smooth. With no gears, it’s a seamless ride with an instant torque delivery.
Fuel Efficiency: Who Saves You More?
| Model | ARAI Mileage (km/l) | Real-World Mileage (km/l) |
| Kia Sonet | 18.4 km/l (1.2L Petrol) | 14-16 km/l |
| Kia Sonet | 18.2 km/l (1.0L Turbo) | 13-15 km/l |
| Kia Seltos | 16.8 km/l (1.5L Petrol) | 12-14 km/l |
| Kia Seltos | 18 km/l (1.5L Turbo) | 13-15 km/l |
| Kia Carens | 16.8 km/l (1.5L Petrol) | 13-15 km/l |
| Kia Carens | 21 km/l (1.5L Diesel) | 17-19 km/l |
| Kia EV6 | – | 5.6 km/kWh (estimated) |
- Sonet Petrol (1.2L) – Best for city mileage.
- Seltos Petrol (1.5L Turbo) – The most efficient for long drives.
- Carens Diesel – The most fuel-efficient, especially on highways.
- EV6 – Electric, so it’s about range per charge (around 400-500 km).
Best Kia Cars in India: Ride Quality & Comfort
How does the car feel on long drives? Does it handle city roads, highways, and rough terrain comfortably? Let’s break down the ride quality and comfort across Kia’s range.
Suspension & Handling: Who Wins in Comfort?
| Model | Suspension Type (Front) | Suspension Type (Rear) | Ride Comfort | Handling |
| Kia Sonet | McPherson Strut | Torsion Beam | Firm | Agile in the city |
| Kia Seltos | McPherson Strut | Torsion Beam | Comfortable | Balanced & stable |
| Kia Carens | McPherson Strut | Torsion Beam | Plush | Smooth highway ride |
| Kia EV6 | MacPherson Strut | Multi-Link | Firm | Excellent at high speeds |
- Sonet is firm. It gives more road feedback, making it great for agility but less comfortable on bumpy roads.
- Seltos offers a smoother ride. It strikes a balance between comfort and handling.
- Carens excels in long-drive comfort. Its suspension is plush, perfect for family road trips.
- EV6 feels sporty and tight, designed for highways with precise handling but less suited for bumpy roads.
Seating Comfort: Which One Feels Best on Long Drives?
| Model | Front Seat Comfort | Rear Seat Comfort | Seat Adjustability | Legroom (mm) | Seat Upholstery |
| Kia Sonet | Firm, supportive | Tighter for three | Manual | 850 mm (Rear) | Fabric / Leatherette |
| Kia Seltos | Comfortable, supportive | Spacious | Power / Manual | 950 mm (Rear) | Fabric / Leatherette |
| Kia Carens | Soft, supportive | Spacious (3rd row tight) | Manual / Power | 930 mm (2nd Row) | Fabric / Leatherette |
| Kia EV6 | Premium, sporty | Sufficient space | Power | 880 mm (Rear) | Leather |
- Sonet’s seats are firm. Great for shorter commutes but a bit tight on long drives.
- Seltos is comfortable for long journeys. It offers ample legroom and a plush feel.
- Carens stands out. The second row is spacious, but the third row is a bit cramped.
- EV6’s seating is premium. Sporty front seats with enough rear space for long rides.
Noise Insulation & Cabin Quietness
| Model | Road Noise | Wind Noise | Overall Cabin Quietness |
| Kia Sonet | Moderate | Noticeable | Average |
| Kia Seltos | Low | Low | Quiet |
| Kia Carens | Low | Moderate | Quiet |
| Kia EV6 | Very Low | Very Low | Extremely Quiet |
- Sonet has noticeable road and wind noise at higher speeds, making it less refined on highways.
- Seltos is quiet on the highway. Great for long drives without too much outside interference.
- Carens offers a quiet cabin despite being an SUV, but some road noise is noticeable.
- EV6 stands out in cabin silence. Electric engines reduce noise, offering a premium, quiet drive.
Tech, Features, and Convenience: What’s Inside the Kia?
Every driver looks for something more than just performance. Features that elevate the driving experience, and tech that makes life easier. Here’s how Kia equips their cars to keep you comfortable and connected.
Infotainment & Connectivity: Who Delivers the Best Digital Experience?
| Feature | Kia Sonet | Kia Seltos | Kia Carens | Kia EV6 |
| Touchscreen Size | 8.0-inch / 10.25-inch | 8.0-inch / 10.25-inch | 8.0-inch / 10.25-inch | 12.3-inch Dual Display |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Wired / Wireless | Wireless | Wired / Wireless | Wireless |
| Speakers | Bose 7-speaker system | Bose 8-speaker system | Bose 6-speaker system | Meridian 14-speaker system |
| Climate Control | Yes (Manual/Automatic) | Yes (Dual-zone automatic) | Yes (Dual-zone automatic) | Yes (Dual-zone automatic) |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | Panoramic | Yes | Yes |
- Sonet comes with an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen depending on the variant, offering good connectivity but lacks wireless Android Auto in some trims.
- Seltos steps up with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it a tech lover’s choice. It also has the biggest Bose 8-speaker system.
- Carens offers the same advanced infotainment as the Seltos, but with slightly fewer speakers and an overall focus on comfort and usability.
- EV6 is fully future-proof with a massive 12.3-inch dual display, wireless connectivity, and a premium Meridian sound system.
Interior Comfort & Features: How Well Does Kia Take Care of You?
| Feature | Kia Sonet | Kia Seltos | Kia Carens | Kia EV6 |
| Seats | Fabric / Leatherette | Fabric / Leatherette | Fabric / Leatherette / Leather | Leather |
| Ventilated Seats | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ambient Lighting | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Sunroof | No (Panoramic in higher trims) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
- Sonet doesn’t offer ventilated seats but comes with practical fabric/leatherette seating. Great for the price but lacks some premium features.
- Seltos includes ventilated seats and wireless charging, making it one of the more comfortable options in its segment.
- Carens has more comfort-focused features like ventilated seats in the front and a practical sunroof.
- EV6 stands out with a full leather interior, premium tech, and wireless charging. Ideal for those seeking a luxury feel.
Advanced Features: What Makes Kia Stand Out?
| Feature | Kia Sonet | Kia Seltos | Kia Carens | Kia EV6 |
| ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) | No | Yes (Top trims) | Yes (Top trims) | Yes (Full suite) |
| 360° Camera | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
- Sonet keeps things simple—rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors. It’s got what you need to avoid bumps in tight spots, but it doesn’t go overboard.
- Seltos? It’s a tech-packed beast. ADAS, blind spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera—basically, it’s your personal co-pilot on long drives, making every mile easier.
- Carens takes a similar route, with most of the Seltos’ features, but lower trims miss out on some of those advanced driver aids.
- Now, the EV6? It’s the king in the tech department. Full ADAS, 360-degree camera, and all the safety tech you’d expect from a premium electric SUV. It’s the future, today.
This is interesting! Here’s Why The Kia Carens Is The Indian Car Of The Year!
Best Kia Cars in India: Safety. Protection. Peace of Mind.
When it comes to cars, safety is paramount. It’s not just about how the car drives, but how it protects you in the worst-case scenario. Kia takes safety seriously, but how do the models measure up? Let’s break it down.
Crash Test Ratings: Who Holds Up the Best?
| Model | Global NCAP (Adult Safety) | Global NCAP (Child Safety) | Bharat NCAP (Expected) | Airbags |
| Kia Sonet | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars) | ⭐⭐⭐ (3 Stars) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 6 |
| Kia Seltos | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars) | ⭐⭐⭐ (3 Stars) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 6 |
| Kia Carens | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 6 |
| Kia EV6 | Not Tested Yet | Not Tested Yet | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Expected) | 6 |
- Sonet and Seltos have strong 4-star ratings for adult safety, making them top picks for safety in their categories.
- Carens has also been tested and fares well with 4-star ratings in both adult and child safety, with a robust structure.
- EV6 hasn’t been tested yet, but it’s expected to have excellent safety ratings given its electric and premium status.
Structural Strength: Which Car is Built Toughest?
| Model | Chassis Material | Kerb Weight (kg) | Door Panel Thickness | Impact Absorption |
| Kia Sonet | High-Tensile Steel | 1,160 kg | Medium | Good |
| Kia Seltos | High-Tensile Steel | 1,300 kg | Thicker | Excellent |
| Kia Carens | High-Tensile Steel | 1,500 kg | Thicker | Excellent |
| Kia EV6 | High-Tensile Steel | 2,070 kg | Very Thick | Premium |
- Carens has a heavier build, making it excellent in crash scenarios.
- Seltos strikes a great balance between weight and impact absorption.
- Sonet is lighter, so while it’s safe, it won’t absorb as much impact in high-speed crashes.
- EV6 has a robust structure, designed to meet the highest standards for premium electric vehicles.
Safety Features: What Keeps You Protected?
| Feature | Kia Sonet | Kia Seltos | Kia Carens | Kia EV6 |
| ABS + EBD | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Stability Control | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | No | Yes (Top variants) | Yes (Top variants) | Yes |
| 360-degree Camera | No | Yes (Top variants) | Yes (Top variants) | Yes (Full suite) |
- Sonet keeps it simple with the essentials—rear parking sensors and hill assist. No frills, just solid practicality. But if you want more, the EV6 steps up.
Verdict: Which One is the Safest?
- For tested safety with advanced features: Kia Seltos and Kia Carens.
- For a premium, safe driving experience: Kia EV6.
- For practicality & safety in city driving: Kia Sonet.
Ownership Costs. Running the Numbers.
Owning a car is more than just the purchase price. It’s about maintenance, running costs, and long-term value. Let’s break down what each Kia model costs to own in the long run.
Annual Maintenance Costs: Who’s Easiest to Maintain?
| Model | Annual Maintenance Cost (₹) | 5-Year Ownership Cost (₹) |
| Kia Sonet | ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 | ₹35,000 – ₹40,000 |
| Kia Seltos | ₹7,000 – ₹9,000 | ₹40,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Kia Carens | ₹8,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹45,000 – ₹55,000 |
| Kia EV6 | ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 | ₹80,000 – ₹1,00,000 |
- Sonet is the most affordable in terms of annual maintenance, thanks to its smaller size and simpler engine options.
- Seltos costs more to maintain, but the premium features and higher engine power make it a well-rounded choice for those willing to spend a bit more.
- Carens will cost more to maintain due to its size and the additional components in its 3rd-row seats.
- EV6 is the most expensive, as electric cars generally have higher initial maintenance costs and expensive components.
Resale Value: Who Holds Its Value Best?
| Model | Expected Resale Value (5 Years) | Demand in Used Car Market |
| Kia Sonet | 55-60% | High |
| Kia Seltos | 60-65% | Very High |
| Kia Carens | 50-55% | Moderate |
| Kia EV6 | 50-55% | High (due to EV market growth) |
- Seltos retains the highest resale value. It’s a popular choice in the used car market and is in high demand.
- Sonet does well but not as strongly as the Seltos. Still, it holds decent value.
- Carens sees moderate resale value, mainly because it’s a niche vehicle (family 3-row MPV).
- EV6 is still growing in the used car market, but demand for electric vehicles is increasing, which may benefit resale values in the future.
Fuel & Insurance Costs: Who Saves More?
| Model | Fuel Efficiency (km/l) | Fuel Costs (5 Years @ ₹100/l) | Insurance (Annual) |
| Kia Sonet | 16-18 km/l (Petrol) | ₹60,000 – ₹80,000 | ₹20,000 – ₹25,000 |
| Kia Seltos | 14-16 km/l (Petrol) | ₹65,000 – ₹85,000 | ₹25,000 – ₹35,000 |
| Kia Carens | 15-18 km/l (Petrol) | ₹70,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹30,000 – ₹40,000 |
| Kia EV6 | 5.6 km/kWh (Electric) | ₹30,000 – ₹40,000 | ₹45,000 – ₹55,000 |
- Sonet is the cheapest in terms of fuel efficiency and insurance costs.
- Seltos consumes more fuel but offers better performance. Insurance is higher due to its segment.
- Carens will cost more to fuel and insure, but the family-oriented features justify it.
- EV6 is the most cost-efficient in terms of fuel (electric), but its insurance and maintenance are more expensive.
Kia’s Future in India: What’s Next?
Kia isn’t slowing down. The future is electric, and Kia is committed to keeping up with the times. Here’s what’s next for Kia in India.
Upcoming Launches (2025-2026)
| Model | Segment | Expected Price (₹) | Launch Year |
| Kia Sonet EV | Subcompact SUV | ₹12-15L | 2025 |
| Kia Seltos EV | Compact SUV | ₹20-25L | 2026 |
| Kia Carnival | MPV | ₹28-35L | 2026 |
| Kia EV9 | Full-size SUV | ₹50-55L | 2025 |
- Sonet EV is coming in 2025, bringing electric mobility to the subcompact SUV segment.
- Seltos EV will launch in 2026, expanding Kia’s electric presence in the SUV space.
- Carnival will continue to cater to large families, and EV9 will be a flagship electric SUV with advanced features.
Kia’s Vision for 2025-2030
- Electric Focus – Kia plans to expand its electric lineup with the EV6 leading the way, followed by the Sonet EV and Seltos EV.
- Affordable Hybrids – Aiming to introduce more hybrid models for efficiency-conscious buyers.
- Smart Connectivity – Kia’s UVO connected tech will continue to evolve, offering better integration with smartphones and home automation.
Final Verdict. Which Kia is Right for You?
Kia Sonet is for you if:
You want a compact SUV with great features and affordable maintenance.
You need a nimble car for city driving and tight spaces.
You’re looking for value for money.
Kia Seltos is for you if:
You want a mid-size SUV with premium features and strong performance.
You need space, tech, and safety for both city and highway.
You’re willing to spend more for higher specs.
Kia Carens is for you if:
You need a family-friendly MPV with flexible seating and good road-trip comfort.
You want ample space for passengers and luggage.
You’re okay with moderate fuel efficiency for more room.
Kia EV6 is for you if:
You want a premium electric SUV with cutting-edge features and long-range capabilities.
You need a luxury car that delivers both power and eco-friendliness.
You’re ready to invest in electric mobility with a stylish design.
Pick your Kia. Choose wisely.