The upcoming compact SUV from Kia will come with segment first features like fully digital instrument cluster, onboard Wi-Fi, electric adjustment for driver seat, etc
Kia Motors is going to launch the production version of the SP Concept later this year in India. The upcoming model will be manufactured at its new plant in Andhra Pradesh. According to a new report, the SP Concept production model will be packed with lots of segment first features.
The compact SUV will likely come with fully digital instrument cluster as the concept model showcased at the Auto Expo along with head-up-display, advanced touchscreen infotainment system with voice recognition and telematics system. The connectivity options also include Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Mirror Link.
The company will also reportedly offer onboard Wi-Fi system, ambient lighting package, 360-degree camera system, wireless charging, ventilated front seats and electric adjust for the driver seat. We can expect most of these features to be available on the top end model along with push-button start, keyless entry, sunroof and alloy wheels.
The upcoming model is based on the next generation Creta platform and both models share lots of components, which will help the company to keep cost down. We have already reported that the next generation Creta will come in a 7-seater configuration as the platform is developed for it and it is expected to be introduced in 2020.
Initially, Kia will introduce a 5-seater version of SP Concept and if it brings good volume then the company will introduce the 7-seater model. The company is currently developing two new engines – 1.5 L petrol and diesel engines for the compact SUV, these engines will be used in the next generation of Creta also.
The new engines are expected to produce similar power output as the current 1.6 L engine on Creta. The transmission options include manual and automatic transmission with paddle shifters behind the steering wheel but it will be exclusive for the petrol model. The SP Concept production model will be priced aggressively to take on the competitors.