In response to the Indian governmentโs recent overhaul of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) structure, Kia has rolled out substantial price cuts across its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle lineup, effective from September 22. The revised tax policy has prompted the South Korean automaker to pass on the full benefits of the GST reduction to its customers, making its cars more affordable and competitive in the Indian market. Hereโs a detailed breakdown of the price slashes across Kiaโs popular models.
Kia Sonet: Affordable Compact SUV Gets Cheaper
The Kia Sonet, a favorite in the compact SUV segment, will see its prices drop significantly by up to โน1,64,471. This stylish rival to the Hyundai Venue currently retails between โน7,99,900 and โน15,63,900 (ex-showroom Delhi). The price reduction is expected to bolster its appeal among budget-conscious buyers looking for a feature-packed SUV.
Kia Syros: Bigger Discounts for a Struggling Star
The Kia Syros, a premium sub-4-meter SUV, has faced challenges in the market due to its bold and polarizing design. To boost its appeal, Kia is slashing prices by up to โน1,86,003. The Syros, which competes in the โน9,49,900 to โน17,79,900 price bracket (ex-showroom Delhi), recorded a modest 834 units in sales in July, compared to the Sonetโs robust 7,627 units. This price cut aims to reignite interest in the model.
Kia Seltos: Modest Cuts for an Aging Favorite
The Kia Seltos, nearing the end of its current lifecycle, will receive a more modest price reduction of up to โน75,372. Priced between โน11,18,900 and โน20,55,900 (ex-showroom Delhi), the Seltos continues to face higher GST rates for vehicles exceeding 4,000 mm in length, which are still taxed at 40% despite the recent reduction from 45-50%. Kia is already testing the next-generation Seltos in India, with a launch expected in the first half of 2026.
Kia Carens and Carens Clavis: Family-Friendly MPVs Get Affordable
The Kia Carens, a versatile MPV, will see price reductions of up to โน48,513. Available in petrol (starting at โน11,40,900) and diesel (starting at โน13,25,900) variants (ex-showroom Delhi), the Carens is a popular choice for families. Its facelifted version, the Carens Clavis, priced between โน11,49,900 and โน21,49,900 (ex-showroom Delhi), will benefit from a slightly higher reduction of up to โน78,674.
Kia Carens Clavis EV and EV6: No Changes for Electric Models
Electric vehicle buyers will note that the Kia Carens Clavis EV and the Kia EV6 are unaffected by the GST changes, as the tax rate for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) remains steady at 5%. The Carens Clavis EV is priced between โน17,99,000 and โน24,49,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), while the premium Kia EV6 continues to retail at โน65,96,638 (ex-showroom Delhi).
Kia Carnival: The Biggest Savings
The Kia Carnival, a luxurious seven-seat minivan imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU), secures the largest price cut in the lineup, with reductions of up to โน4,48,542. Currently priced at โน63,91,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), the Carnival is set to become a more attractive option for buyers seeking a premium family vehicle.
Why the Price Cuts?
The Indian governmentโs decision to lower GST on non-electric vehicles longer than 4,000 mm from 45-50% to 40% has enabled Kia to adjust its pricing strategy. However, the government continues to categorize such vehicles as luxury goods, maintaining higher taxes compared to smaller cars or BEVs. These tax reforms, combined with Kiaโs commitment to passing on the savings, aim to make its vehicles more accessible to a wider audience.
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What is Next for Kia?
With these price reductions, Kia is positioning itself to strengthen its foothold in Indiaโs competitive automotive market. The upcoming launch of the next-generation Seltos in 2026 and the continued popularity of models like the Sonet and Carens signal Kiaโs focus on innovation and affordability. For now, buyers can take advantage of these significant savings starting September 22.
