Quick Highlights:
- Kia India sold 27,603 units in January 2026, marking 10.3% year-on-year growth.
- New Carens Clavis EV and Clavis MPV emerge as key growth drivers.
- Kia’s first Made-in-India EV strengthens its presence in the family EV segment.
- Strong demand for Seltos and Sonet keeps core portfolio stable.
Kia India Starts CY2026 on a Strong Note
Kia India has kicked off the calendar year 2026 with impressive momentum, reporting total sales of 27,603 units in January, compared to 25,025 units in January 2025, registering a year-on-year growth of 10.3 percent. In my view, this growth reflects not just volume expansion but also growing confidence among Indian buyers in Kia’s product philosophy.
The automaker continues to see resilient demand across key segments, driven by a mix of refreshed ICE models and a carefully positioned electric offering that appeals to family-focused buyers.
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Balanced Portfolio Drives January Performance
Kia’s January performance was powered by consistent demand across its entire portfolio. The all-new Kia Seltos received encouraging market response, while the Kia Sonet maintained steady sales momentum in the compact SUV space.
At the same time, the Kia Carens Clavis and the newly launched Carens Clavis EV played a crucial role in strengthening Kia’s presence in the recreation vehicle and EV segments. This balanced mix of volume sellers and niche innovators is where Kia seems to be getting things right.
Carens Clavis EV: A Strategic Game Changer
The Carens Clavis EV, Kia’s first Made-in-India electric vehicle, stands out as a unique proposition in the Indian market. With very limited affordable 7-seater options currently available, Kia has clearly spotted a gap and moved quickly to fill it.
What I personally find noteworthy is that the Clavis EV is not chasing outright performance. Instead, it is built around comfort, space, and practicality for a true seven-member family, which aligns perfectly with Indian usage patterns.
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Official Statement from Kia India
Commenting on the performance, Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President, Sales & Marketing, Kia India, said:
“The encouraging start to 2026 reflects the continued trust customers place in the Kia brand. The positive response to the new-generation Seltos, steady demand for the Sonet, and growing popularity of the Carens Clavis and Clavis EV underline the strength and balance of our portfolio.”
This statement reinforces Kia’s ongoing focus on design-led, technology-rich, and future-ready products, paired with a strong ownership experience.
Kia Carens Clavis EV: Key Technical Specifications
Powertrain and Performance
- Battery Options: 42 kWh (Base) and 51.4 kWh (Extended Range)
- MIDC Range: 404 km to 490 km
- Motor Output: 133 bhp to 169 bhp
- Torque: 255 Nm
- Drive Layout: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Charging Capabilities
- DC Fast Charging: 10–80% in 39 minutes (100 kW)
- AC Charging: 10–100% in approximately 4–4.5 hours (11 kW)
Dimensions and Practicality
- Length: 4550 mm
- Width: 1800 mm
- Height: 1730 mm
- Wheelbase: 2780 mm
These dimensions ensure generous cabin space across all three rows, making it well-suited for long family trips and daily city use.
Features, Technology and Safety
Safety and Driver Assistance
- Level 2 ADAS with over 20 features
- 6 airbags standard
- Electronic Stability Control
- 360-degree camera
- Automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist
Comfort and Convenience
- Dual 12.3-inch digital displays
- BOSE premium sound system
- Panoramic sunroof
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for interior and exterior use
Market Positioning and Outlook
The Carens Clavis EV is currently the most affordable 7-seater electric vehicle in India, and while it may not rival high-performance EVs like the XEV 9S, it clearly does not need to. Kia has prioritised comfort, ease of use, and family-friendly practicality, and that focus is resonating with buyers.
With slow but steady growth in EV adoption and continued trust in Kia’s comfort-oriented products, the brand appears well-positioned to sustain its upward trajectory in the coming months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How many cars did Kia India sell in January 2026?
- Kia India sold 27,603 units in January 2026, registering 10.3% YoY growth.
Q. What models drove Kia’s January 2026 sales growth?
- The growth was driven by the new-generation Seltos, Sonet, and strong demand for the Carens Clavis and Clavis EV.
Q. Is the Kia Carens Clavis EV made in India?
- Yes, the Carens Clavis EV is Kia’s first Made-in-India electric vehicle.
Q. What is the range of the Kia Carens Clavis EV?
- The EV offers an MIDC-certified range between 404 km and 490 km, depending on the battery variant.
Q. Is the Carens Clavis EV a good family car?
- Yes, it is designed specifically as a comfortable, spacious 7-seater, making it one of the most family-friendly electric vehicles currently available in India.
