Kia Explores Clavis – Urban SUV Model Positioned Between Sonet and Seltos

Shorts Car Channel released some photos of the Kia Clavis prototype being tested in its home country of South Korea. This is the first time this urban SUV model has been spotted testing on the streets.

The Kia Clavis is known internally as the AY. This model is positioned in the small urban SUV segment, between the Sonet and Seltos.

Although the test vehicle is camouflaged quite well, it is not difficult to recognize the square and taller shape of the Clavis compared to both the Sonet and Seltos. This design style means that the Clavis will have a more spacious interior for both passengers and cargo.

With the current trend of electrification, it is likely that Kia will offer both gasoline and electric powertrain options for the Clavis. For the gasoline engine, the Clavis could use the same engine as the Sonet. It is a 1.0L turbocharged engine, producing 118.3 horsepower and 172 Nm of torque. It will be paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic or a 6-speed iMT manual transmission.

Information about the electric powertrain option has not been revealed yet. Rushlane has shared multiple sources suggesting that the Kia Clavis with electric powertrain could have a maximum range of 350-400 km per full charge.

The Kia Clavis is expected to be officially introduced at the end of this year, with India being the first market to launch this model. With the arrival of the Clavis, Kia’s SUV lineup will continue to expand, especially in the small urban SUV segment, increasing competition in this market.