Kia India refreshes Sonet, Seltos & Carens for 2025 with revamped variants
Kia India has introduced key updates for its popular models – the Sonet, Seltos and Carens – as part of the 2025 model year refresh. Among the most notable changes is the removal of the diesel-iMT powertrain option across all three vehicles, alongside a reshuffling of variants to better align with market demand. The iMT (intelligent manual transmission) remains available with their turbo-petrol engines, while each model’s line-up sees strategic additions and deletions aimed at enhancing the overall offering.
Kia Sonet: New Variants and Farewell to HTX+ Trim
For the Sonet, Kia has eliminated the diesel-iMT option previously available in the HTX and HTX+ trims. Additionally, the HTX+ trim has been discontinued entirely. To fill the gap, Kia has introduced the HTK+(O) trim, positioned between the HTK(O) and HTX trims. This new variant comes with the choice of a 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with a manual transmission or a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with the iMT.
Another significant change is the discontinuation of the Gravity Edition, a special version previously available in the Sonet line-up. With these adjustments, the Sonet’s prices now range from Rs. 8.00 lakhs to Rs. 15.70 lakhs, ensuring a wider appeal to different customer segments.
Kia Seltos: A Streamlined Yet Versatile Line-up
In the Seltos range, the diesel-iMT powertrain was previously offered exclusively in the mid-spec HTX trim, which is no longer available. Kia has also discontinued the Gravity Edition for this model, streamlining the line-up.
To provide more options to buyers, Kia has introduced three new trims – HTK(O), HTK+(O) and HTX (O) – each featuring unique combinations of features to cater to varied preferences. Meanwhile, the sporty GT Line has been simplified, with the GTX+ trim now serving as the sole option under this variant.
The updated Seltos, now priced between Rs. 11.13 lakhs and Rs. 20.51 lakhs, continues to balance feature richness with practicality for a broad audience.
Kia Carens: Fewer Trims, More Focused Options
The Carens has seen significant changes to its line-up as part of the MY2025 update. The diesel-iMT powertrain has been discontinued, and the previously available Luxury trim in six- and seven-seater configurations has been dropped.
Kia has also streamlined the availability of the petrol-iMT powertrain, limiting it to fewer trims. The diesel-automatic (AT) variant now comes exclusively in the Prestige Plus (O) trim. On the other hand, the premium X-Line trim, previously offered with both turbo-petrol-DCT and diesel-AT options, is now limited to the turbo-petrol-DCT configuration.
Interestingly, the Gravity Edition, which was removed from the Sonet and Seltos, continues to be available in the Carens line-up. Prices for the refreshed Carens fall between Rs. 10.60 lakhs and Rs. 19.70 lakhs, making it a competitive choice in its segment.
Kia’s Strategy for 2025: Evolving with Market Trends
The removal of the diesel-iMT powertrain across Kia’s line-up reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences and market dynamics. While diesel engines remain popular for their fuel efficiency and torque, the rising popularity of automatic and turbocharged petrol engines has influenced Kia’s product strategy.
