Kia Motors to showcase India-bound models at Auto Expo 2018

Kia Motors India is expected to showcase at least three to four India-bound models at the show.

South Korean auto-maker Kia Motors had announced its plans to enter the Indian market last month and is expected to commence sales towards the end of 2019. Meanwhile, blueprint on the models for India will be revealed next year.

Also read: Kia Motors, all you need to know about Hyundai's sister brand

The sister brand of Hyundai is gearing up to participate in the 14th edition of Delhi Auto Expo in 2018, reports ET Auto. Kia Motors India is expected to showcase at least three to four India-bound models at the show.

A compact SUV and a compact sedan will be the entry-level models of Kia, while the brand will also showcase high-end premium cars. Hyundai in India has a reputation of value-for-money, low cost car manufacturer. Kia Motors, on the other hand, is expected to be slightly premium in India, a turf where Hyundai is not present.

The compact SUV of Kia is expected to take on the likes of Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza and Ford EcoSport. The global line-up of Kia consist of Soul, Niro and Sportage compact SUVs.

Sportage looks like the ideal candidate for India. The entry sedan is expected to be a compact model rivalling Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Hyundai Xcent. Optima will be another choice. If not, Kia may work on an India-specific model.

South Korea's second-largest automobile manufacturer had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Andhra Pradesh government to set up a manufacturing plant in Anantapur district in April. The plant will come up with an investment of $1.1 billion (around Rs 7,050 crore) and will be spread over 536 acres with initial capacity of 300,000 units per year.

Kia produces more than three million vehicles a year from 14 manufacturing and assembly operations in five countries. Through a network of distributors and dealers, the brand has presence in around 180 countries worldwide.