Kia Sportage and Soul spotted in India

Two Kia models - the Sportage SUV and the Soul Crossover - have been spotted on Indian roads, without any camouflage. Both the cars were running on WB (West Bengal) temporary number plates.

Various Kia cars have earlier been photographed in India while being in-transit to other countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. However, since the two cars spotted recently had temporary plates on, it is highly likely that the Korean automaker might have started testing the Sportage and Soul in Indian conditions, ahead of the brand's launch in India. Various reports had earlier suggested that Kia will be officially entering the Indian market by 2019.

The Kia Sportage was first introduced in 1993 and is currently in its fourth-generation. If launched in India, the Sportage will likely share its engine options with the Hyundai Tucson, which comes with 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines. The Soul crossover is currently in its second-generation, and is internationally offered with a 1.6-litre diesel, a 1.6-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre petrol engine.

Kia is said to be currently scouting for a location to set up its manufacturing plant in India. Various states, including Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, have reportedly shown interest in offering land and facilities to the Korean automaker for setting up its base in the country.

Source: Autocar India