Kia has set-out its plans for South Africa by confirming six models from now until the end of the year.
Already present
Headed by the long overdue Tasman bakkie last month, the brand revealed its second model in the shape of the fourth generation Carens this week.
Returning to South Africa after a 13-year hiatus, the line-up is exclusively diesel-powered with petrol options only set to be offered if enough demand warrants it
A full launch report, complete with pricing and spec, will soon be tabled.
In the pipeline
Q2
Arriving next, June will see the debut of a new model of which no details were revealed.
Based on hints made on the sidelines of the Carens’ launch in Johannesburg, though, speculation points to the mystery model possibly being the all-new Seltos.
Revealed towards the end of last year, the second generation Seltos incorporates Kia’s latest Opposites United styling language, while also being longer and wider than the model it replaces.
Its interior drawing visually from the all-electric EV range, the cabin retains a fair amount of physical switchgear, while also gaining a pair of 12.3-inch displays based on the trim level.
Notable first time or upgraded safety systems include a 360-degree camera system, Safe Exit Assist, Lane Following Assist, Parking Collison Avoidance Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist and Reverse Automatic Braking.
Already available in South Korea, as well as the United States and Europe, the South African market Seltos will most likely again originate from the Anantapur plant in India rather than the main Gwangju facility in South Korea.
As such, expect the same engine options as the current model, namely the 1.5-litre petrol with or without turbocharging, and the 1.5-litre turbodiesel.
Q3
Showcased just over a year ago, the refreshed Sportage not only gains a restyled interior, but also the same interior as that of other latest Kia models.
On offer is the latest Kia steering wheel, new air vents, a tweaked infotainment system and centre console, plus the first option of a Head-Up Display.
Still carrying the NQ5 internal moniker, Kia South Africa is likely to stick with the current engine line-up instead of opting of the hybrid, mild-hybrid or big displacement petrol engines offered in other markets.
As such, expect the retention of the 1.6 T-GDI outputting 132kW/265Nm and the 1.6 CRDI oil-burner rated at 100kW/320Nm.
