Kia is gearing up to launch a new three-row hybrid SUV, codenamed MQ4i, aimed at competing with the Mahindra XUV700. This SUV is expected to be produced locally. This will be Kia’s third three-row SUV in India.
The MQ4i will be based on the Sorento platform and is expected to be around 4.8 meters long with a wheelbase of 2.8 meters. This SUV will feature a 1.5-liter petrol engine paired with a strong hybrid system.
The MQ4i will be manufactured at Kia’s Anantapur factory in Andhra Pradesh, with an initial production target of 50,000 units annually. The SUV will be launched in India first, before being introduced to other markets. Kia’s sister brand, Hyundai, is also developing a similar three-row SUV, codenamed Ni1i, which will be manufactured at its new plant near Pune.
The MQ4i will come equipped with advanced safety features, including up to seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, and an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite. It will also offer features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
Kia’s move to develop the MQ4i highlights the growing competition in the midsize SUV segment, with other models like the XUV 700, Tata Safari and the upcoming three-row Maruti Grand Vitara also vying for market share. However, currently there is no strong hybrid in the mix which could give the new Kia SUV an edge. The MQ4i is expected to hit the market in 2027, providing consumers with a new option for a spacious, hybrid-powered SUV.
Kia’s entry into the three-row hybrid SUV segment with the MQ4i is a strategic move to capture market share from established players like Mahindra. The MQ4i’s strong hybrid system and advanced safety features make it an attractive option for families looking for a spacious and eco-friendly vehicle.
Also Read: Maruti Suzuki eWX based electric budget hatchback being developed