Following the reveal of the Kia EV4, Kia has unveiled another purpose-built electric vehicle, the Kia PV5.
In terms of design, the Kia PV5 does not present significant differences compared to the PV5 Concept that was showcased over a year ago.
The Kia PV5 is available in both passenger van and cargo van versions.
The main difference between the two models is the presence of side windows in the passenger van, while the cargo van features sliding doors on both the left and right sides of the vehicle, along with twin tailgate openings at the back.
In addition, both models share similar design elements, such as LED daytime running lights (DRL) located at the end of the windshield, followed by the charging port and headlight unit in the center of the front fascia.
It also features relatively large door handles and vertical rear light units.
According to Kia, in addition to the passenger van and cargo van configurations, buyers will also have the option to choose from several other configurations for the PV5 or customize specifications according to their needs.
The full specifications of the Kia PV5 will be officially revealed on February 27.
Kia has introduced its latest compact crossover, the Syros, which will compete in the Indian market. Although it may resemble the EV9, the automaker’s latest offering is powered by an internal combustion engine paired with a manual transmission.
It is also significantly smaller compared to the colossal electric SUV, measuring 3,995 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, and 1,665 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,550 mm. The Syros is built on the K1 platform, which is also used by the Hyundai Casper.
Despite the size difference, the Syros incorporates several design elements found in the EV9, such as ice cube-shaped LED headlights, Starmap LED taillights, and Kia’s Digital Tiger Face.
Its futuristic appearance is further enhanced by 17-inch Crystal Cut alloy wheels, flush door handles, and puddle lights with Kia logo projection.
The interior layout is also reminiscent of the EV9, albeit on a smaller scale. According to Kia, the Syros is equipped with various segment-first features, including a 30-inch Trinity Panoramic Display comprised of two 12.3-inch screens and a five-inch climate control display.
Additionally, it offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, a Harman Kardon premium sound system with eight speakers, and a 64-colour ambient lighting system.
Kia stated that the Syros also comes with a call center-assisted navigation system that allows drivers to receive real-time guidance. Software and connectivity features will be updated over the air (OTA).
Another segment-first feature introduced by the Syros is the sliding and reclining, 60:40 split rear seats, which also come with ventilation. Behind the rear seats is a fairly large boot space with a capacity of 465 litres.
In terms of safety, the Syros comes with six airbags and a Level 2 ADAS system that includes 16 features such as Front Collision Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Follow Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, among others.
Customers can choose between two available engines: a Smartstream 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine producing 120 PS and 172 Nm, or a CRDi 1.5-litre diesel engine with 116 PS and 250 Nm. In addition to a manual transmission, an automatic transmission option is also available – both tasked to drive the front wheels.
Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd (DJM), the official distributor of the Kia brand in Malaysia, has launched the fifth generation Kia Sportage in the local market.
This locally assembled C-segment SUV, produced in Kulim, Kedah, is now open for bookings. It is available in four variants with two engine options as follows:
2.0G 2WD – RM149,781.78
2.0G 2WD High – RM159,781.78
1.6T 2WD High – RM179,599
1.6T AWD High – RM189,599
As you can see, the launched Sportage is the pre-facelift version, not the recently introduced facelift variant.
DJM stated that, for now, the facelifted Sportage is only available in South Korea; however, the SUV is expected to arrive in the local market within the next two years.
The 2.0G variants are powered by a Smartstream 2.0-litre engine that produces 156 hp and 192 Nm, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Meanwhile, the 1.6T variants feature a Gamma II 1.6-litre turbo engine with a power output of 177 hp and 265 Nm. Power is transmitted to the wheels via a seven-speed DCT gearbox.
In terms of equipment, the SUV is fitted with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as ambient lighting. Higher variants will also feature a dual-zone climate control system and Harman Kardon audio system.
Safety features include Forward-Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance (RCCA), among others.
For the Malaysian market, the Sportage is offered in four colours: Astra Blue, Meteor Grey, Jet Black and Snowflake White Pearl.
Finally, DJM will provide a five-year warranty and a complimentary five-year service package.
In Malaysia, when discussing luxury MPVs, whether one likes them or not, the vehicles that invariably come to mind are the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire.
From time to time, names like the Mercedes-Benz Vito and Lexus LM may cross the lips of those with a penchant for the luxurious, but ultimately, the Alphard and Vellfire are consistently top of the list.
This is hardly surprising, as this writer is certain that both models are indeed impressive and worthwhile purchases. However, if you are seeking something different, their closest competitor, the Kia Carnival, proves to be a worthy alternative.
Why, you may ask?
First and foremost, it’s about size. In this writer’s opinion, those who purchase MPVs often rank size as one of the highest criteria before making a decision.
Therefore, if you desire a vehicle that is spacious and roomy, look no further than the Carnival, which is appreciably larger than the Alphard/Vellfire.
For comparison, the Carnival measures 5,155 mm in length, 1,995 mm in width, and 1,740 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,090 mm.
In contrast, the Alphard/Vellfire duo is somewhat smaller, with a length of 5,010 mm (5,005 mm for the Vellfire), a width of 1,850 mm, a height of 1,950 mm, and a wheelbase of 3,000 mm.
In terms of design, the Carnival boasts a sportier appearance that resembles a sleek long wagon due to its lower and wider body shape. This is further accentuated by 19-inch black alloy wheels replacing the previous 18-inch versions.
While the Toyota MPVs are not unattractive, their boxy design does come across as somewhat conventional when positioned alongside their Korean counterpart.
As for the interior, this writer can confidently assert that the quality and features offered by the Carnival are on par with those of the Japanese models, even though the price difference among these vehicles can be as much as RM300,000.
It’s true that the Alphard/Vellfire feel a touch more luxurious due to their Lexus-like touches and higher-grade materials such as genuine Nappa leather upholstery. However, the Carnival still impresses.
The materials covering the seats, dashboard, and door panels feel sufficiently high-quality, as do all the physical buttons present throughout.
The Carnival is replete with features, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a three-zone climate control system, heating and ventilation functions for the front seats, and a Bose audio system with 12 speakers.
Moreover, the High variant of the Carnival is now equipped with Blind Spot View Monitor (BVM) that displays video feed from the side mirror cameras on the digital instrument cluster, a feature that can be activated when you use the turn signals.
In summary, this writer can confidently say that the quality and features provided by the Carnival justify its price tag of almost RM250,000.
The unit that this writer recently test drove was the eight-seat variant featuring a 2-3-3 configuration. The centre seat in the second row is larger enough for adult passengers, and when not in use, it can fold down to create a small table complete with two cup holders.
What’s even more interesting is that this seat can be rotated backwards to face the third-row seats or can be completely removed if desired.
For any MPV, the best seat in the house is usually in the back, and the Carnival does not disappoint in this regard, ensuring passenger comfort with its individual climate control for the rear, as well as retractable sunshades and a sunroof.
Additionally, children need not dispute over charging points for their gadgets, as every seat in the Carnival comes with its own USB port.
It is common for three-row vehicles to have limited cargo space when all seats are in use, but with the Carnival, this is not a concern, as there is a generous, deep storage area located beneath the third-row seats.
Now, how does it perform on the road?
The Carnival is powered by a Smartstream 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.
This engine generates 202 PS at 3,800 rpm and an impressive 440 Nm of torque, available from as low as 1,750 rpm. While the 2.4-litre turbo engine in the Alphard offers slightly more horsepower, the Carnival’s torque advantage (10 Nm more) does not go unnoticed.
As expected from a diesel engine, the torque is readily available in the lower rpm range, making the Carnival feel smooth from a standstill. In fact, its acceleration is fairly smooth and quick, which is not something you can always say about a vehicle weighing close to two tonnes.
On the highway, the engine remains exceptionally quiet. Should you find yourself needing to overtake, there’s no need for concern over power since it consistently feels adequate, even in Normal mode.
The gearbox is responsive, allowing you to quickly accelerate everytime the accelerator pedal is depressed. It also promptly downshifts to deliver the necessary power for easy overtaking.
With the recent diesel subsidy rationalisation, some may harbour concerns regarding the Carnival’s fuel consumption.
For your information, this writer recorded a fuel efficiency of around 15 km/l or 6.7 l/100 km during a mixed driving cycle that included both urban and highway conditions.
The Carnival boasts a 72-litre fuel tank, meaning that theoretically, the vehicle could be driven nearly 1,080 km before needing to refuel.
If you’re paying full price for diesel at RM3.35 per litre, a complete fill-up would cost approximately RM241.20. Is it worthwhile to spend RM241.20 for a driving range exceeding 1,000 km? That’s for you to decide.
Lastly, the Carnival’s suspension tuning and NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) are noteworthy. The suspension is relatively soft, allowing for a confident ride over uneven surfaces without the constant need to apply the brakes.
Nevertheless, there is something about this suspension setup that instils a sense of confidence and stability, especially at higher speeds. This is what makes the MPV enjoyable to drive fast.
The NVH aspect has been carefully addressed, ensuring that as a passenger, you experience a comfortable journey, with wind and tyre noise significantly minimised. The sound of the diesel engine is only noticeable if you stand outside the vehicle.
In conclusion, there is little more that this writer can say about the Carnival except that it is exceptionally good, enjoyable to drive, and packed to the brim with features and tech to meet the needs of buyers in this segment. What’s even better is that its competitive pricing makes it accessible to a broader range of potential MPV buyers.
However, it cannot be denied that the rationalisation of diesel subsidy may lead some to reconsider their decision to purchase the Carnival.
But, for this writer, if you are in a position to spend over RM200,000 on a large MPV, you are likely capable of managing the fuel costs without subsidy.
Dynamikjaya Motors (DJM), the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, has confirmed that the fifth generation Kia Sportage will make its debut at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) 2024 this December.
According to the company, the C-segment SUV is locally assembled (CKD) in Kulim, Kedah. Bookings have already opened at all authorised Kia dealerships nationwide, although the pricing has yet to be announced.
As can be seen, the soon-to-be-launched Sportage is the pre-facelift model and not the recently introduced facelift version.
In a FAQ, DJM stated that currently, the facelifted Sportage is only available in South Korea but the SUV is expected to arrive in the local market within the next two years.
The Sportage will be offered with two engine options: the Smartstream 2.0-litre petrol engine (156 hp/192 Nm) paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, and the Gamma II 1.5-litre turbocharged engine (177 hp/265 Nm) with a seven-speed DCT.
Features-wise, it will come equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a Harman Kardon audio system for the higher variants.
Safety systems will include Forward-Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance (RCCA), and more.
Finally, DJM will offer a five-year warranty and a complimentary five-year service package.
You may already know that Kia is busy developing its very first pickup truck, known as the Tasman.
In the latest development, the automaker announced that the Tasman is currently undergoing its next phase of testing in the deserts of Al Qudra, United Arab Emirates.
Previously, the ladder-frame pickup truck had undergone various tests, including off-road driving in the rugged Alabama Hills, California, water wading, and on-track driving to evaluate its handling, chassis strength, and towing capabilities.
This time, a pre-production prototype of the Tasman was flown to the Al Qudra desert to ensure it can handle extreme hot weather and challenging driving conditions.
According to Kia, the pickup truck has been subjected to at least 1,777 different types of tests, with over 18,000 rounds of tests have been completed so far.
No technical details have been announced yet. However, reports indicate that the Tasman is likely to feature a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine similar to the one used in the Sorento, and could be offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive guises.
Additionally, the Tasman is said to boast a maximum payload of up to 998 kg and a towing capacity of nearly 3.5 tonnes.
Exactly where the Tasman will be sold is still unknown, but reports from South Korea suggest it will likely be offered in the Middle East, Africa, and Australia.
The Tasman is expected to make its global debut at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia, which will take place from October 29 to November 2.
Kia Asia Pacific has unveiled the opening of the Kia Asia Pacific Training Centre, located in Glenmarie, Shah Alam.
It is the fifth global training hub established by Kia after openings in the United States, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Germany, and Russia.
According to Kevin Ahn, President and CEO of Kia Asia Pacific, “Malaysia was chosen from a list of 34 APAC markets due to its strategic location, allowing us to meet the growing industry needs.”
With an investment totaling RM3 million, this training center spans over 10,000 square feet, built to meet global standards set by the parent company Hyundai Motor Group.
The training center offers various facilities including theory classrooms equipped with high-tech displays, computer resource center, virtual repair simulations, and specialized equipment such as Kia diagnostic tools.
The latest Kia EV models such as EV6 and EV9, along with upcoming models like EV5 and EV3, are also available for training purposes.
Adjacent to the training center is the Kia 3S Flagship Centre, offering real-world exposure to trainees to further enhance their skills.
Upon completion of the program, each participant will receive a certification from Kia Asia Pacific confirming their skills and expertise within Kia’s global network.
It is understood that the training hub can accommodate up to 80 trainees at one time, with a target to train up to 3,000 individuals annually to support all 34 countries in the Asia Pacific region.
THE Kia Bongo is a small one-ton truck that has been launched since 2005, but it is still being updated for 2025. This fourth-generation model is being refreshed not for the third world market, but in South Korea itself.
Available in two- and four-door variants, the design of this Kia Bongo looks like it’s from the early 2000s, but this is indeed the 2025 version.
Standard equipment has been added, with the truck now equipped with power side mirrors, cruise control, and a fire extinguisher. Higher variants are equipped with chrome door handles and a new parking brake handle.
Specifically designed for small businesses, the Bongo comes with an automatic transmission, previously only available in manual. There are also options for two-wheel and all-wheel drive.
Despite being founded over two decades ago, it has received additional modern features such as heated/ventilated seats, start/stop button, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen.
Safety features include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist and Lane Departure Warning. The engine remains the same, a 2.5-liter unit with an output of 157hp and 294Nm of torque for the automatic transmission.
The manual model has power of 136hp and 254Nm of torque. For those more environmentally friendly, the Kia Bongo is also offered in a fully electric (EV) version with an output of 181hp and 394Nm of torque.
It can be driven up to 210km. Prices start at around RM68,726 in Korea. It would definitely be interesting if it were sold in Malaysia, wouldn’t it?
BATIK Air has announced the launch of a new private terminal transfer service designed exclusively for its Business Class passengers.
In partnership with Kia through their sole distributor, Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn. Bhd., Batik Air will enhance the travel experience for both Business Class Promo and Flexi passengers by offering a seamless and premium transfer between the Main Terminal Building and the Satellite Building of KLIA Terminal 1.
Passengers will be chauffeured between the pick-up point at Gate G1 of the Main Terminal Building and the Satellite Building in the all-electric Kia EV9 and the new Carnival.
The airline company said the exclusive offering supplements the existing bus transfer provided by Malaysia Airports (MAHB) due to the temporary suspension of the aerotrain service.
Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, Chief Executive Officer of Batik Air said the company is taking proactive steps to reduce the environmental impact while ensuring our Business Class passengers enjoy unparalleled comfort and luxury.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our long-term vision of achieving a more sustainable future in aviation,” he added, emphasising the airline’s ongoing efforts to integrate environmentally conscious practices into its operations and its dedication to sustainability.
Kevin Ahn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kia Asia Pacific said that partnership with Batik Air aligned with Kia corporate vision of Plan S and their commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.
DINAMIKJAYA Motors has launched its latest battery electric vehicle (BEV), the Kia EV9. The model is now available for booking and test drives at any Kia showrooms nationwide.
Since its debut in March 2023, the EV9 has already garnered prestigious awards like the 2024 World Car of The Year and the Best of the Best Award in Cars and Motorcycle category by Red Dot Award: Product Design 2024.
For the Malaysian market, the EV9 is offered in the GT-Line AWD variant with a choice of six or seven seats. Save for the seating configuration, both versions have the same exact specifications.
Pricing (OTR without insurance) starts at RM374,668 for the six-seater variant and RM369,668 for the seven-seater variant. The EV9 is fully imported from South Korea.
In terms of performance, the EV9 is powered by two electric motors that combine to produce a total power of 380 hp and 700 Nm. This allows the electric SUV to accelerate up to 200 km/h.
As for the battery, the electric SUV employs a 99.8 kWh unit that offers a driving range of up to 505 km on a full charge.
The EV9 supports DC fast charging of up to 350 kW, allowing it to replenish the battery from 10 to 80% in 24 minutes. It is also equipped with an 11 kW AC charger, which takes approximately 10.5 hours for a full charge.
Similar to the EV6, the EV9 is built using the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It has a rather large footprint, measuring 5,015 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, 1,780 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm.
Its exterior design features the Digital Tiger Face, which includes the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, vertical LED lights, and Star Map Lighting on the daytime running lights and taillights. Both variants come with 21-inch wheels.
There are five colours to choose from, namely Ocean Blue, Snow White Pearl, Pebble Grey, Aurora Black Pearl, and Iceberg Green.
Inside, you’ll find a dual screen setup, each measuring 12.3 inches, and a five-inch segment display that enables control of the vehicle’s functionality while ensuring physical buttons are kept to a minimum.
Look closely and you’ll find that the EV9 lacks conventional side mirrors. Instead, the SUV is fitted with exterior cameras that provide live feeds through two small screens located on the left and right door panels.
Other niceties include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, USB-C charging ports in the front, middle, and rear, ambient lighting, and a Meridian audio system with 14 speakers.
With the flexible Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) charging system, the EV9 also has a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function that can supply power up to 3.6 kWh to charge various electronic devices.
In terms of safety and driver assistance, the EV9 is equipped with the following features:
High Beam Assist (HBA)
Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA)
Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist (RCCA)
Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA2)
Lane Following Assist (LFA2)
Smart Cruise Control (SCC)
Dinamikjaya Motors offers a manufacturer’s warranty for five years/150,000 km and a battery warranty for eight years/160,000 km.
KIA continues to expand their lineup of electric vehicles (EVs) with the introduction of the EV3, a compact SUV. This model joins the existing lineup, including the EV5, EV6, and EV9.
The Kia EV3 is built on the E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) but does not feature the 800-volt architecture found in the EV6 and EV9. Instead, it comes with a 400-volt architecture similar to the EV5, enabling DC charging from 10 to 80 percent in 31 minutes.
With a full charge, it can be driven up to 600km based on WLTP cycle. This range applies to the Long Range model, while the Standard Range variant offers a slightly shorter distance.
Power is supplied by nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries, known for offering better power and longer lifespan.
Both variants are equipped with the same electric motor, mounted on the front axle. This motor has an output of 201hp and 283Nm of torque, allowing the EV3 to accelerate to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds. The maximum speed is limited to 170km/h.
The Kia EV3 is equipped with eDTVC (Electric Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control) for optimal grip, as well as a new feature called i-Pedal 3.0, which functions as regenerative braking.
The EV3 offers a cargo space of 460 liters, and since it has no engine, it also has an additional 25 liters of space under the front hood.
In terms of appearance, the Kia EV3 features the ‘Tiger Face Star Map’, a result of the design of the DRL (Daytime Running Lights) and main headlights. The grille also comes in two different bumper design options, depending on the variant.
Despite its boxy and angular shape, the Kia EV3 maintains aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient as low as 0.263.
The cabin design showcases a minimalist concept. There is a single horizontal air vent, dividing the dashboard into two sections. Several physical buttons are located on the center console.
The screen on the dashboard is quite large, consisting of a 12.3-inch instrument display, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and a 5-inch air conditioning panel.
Some parts of the cabin are made from recycled materials, with the option of Air, Earth, or Water trim.
Other features include the Harman Kardon audio system, AI assistance, Automotive Content Platform, and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).
KIA has released teaser images of their next electric vehicle (EV), the EV3. It will be fully unveiled on May 23 as a compact electric SUV slotted below the EV5.
For your information, the EV3 was first previewed by the Concept EV3 in October last year. Kia’s teaser images indicate that it will retain most of its exterior design cues for production.
Kia Concept EV3
Similar to the EV9, Kia applies the ‘Opposites United’ philosophy to the design of the EV3, as evident from the striking boxy fenders and tailgate.
The EV3 also carries the brand’s signature Star Map lighting at the front and rear, along with black-painted C pillars to create the floating roof effect.
Interior images have not been revealed yet; however, we anticipate a design and layout not significantly different from Kia’s existing EV models.
Likewise, technical details of the EV3 are unknown for now, but according to reports, it is built on the E-GMP platform with a 400V architecture, as opposed to the 800V system in the EV6 and EV9.
Kia says the EV3 will go on sale later this year following its global world premiere.
The first Kia EV, the EV6, has been in the global market since 2021, and now over 210,000 units have been sold. Kia is now set to introduce the first update or facelift for this model.
It will still come in standard and GT Line options, with the GT Line featuring a new front light bar. Both variants will also showcase a new front bumper, along with the choice of 19- and 20-inch rims.
The cabin space doesn’t seem to have changed much, but upon closer inspection, the steering wheel now sports a new three-blade design, alongside a new dual-screen setup.
It will include fingerprint recognition, a 12-inch head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. The main update for this facelift is the larger battery.
The 2025 Kia EV6 will receive an 84kWh capacity pack, replacing the previous 77.4kWh. It can also be charged from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes, with a 350kW capacity.
The EV6 Long Range rear-wheel-drive variant also offers a longer driving range of 494km. Another update is in the unseen areas. The EV6 will be equipped with side airbags for rear passengers, as well as larger B-pillars for enhanced body rigidity.
The electric motor is said to be quieter, and comfort has been improved through new shock absorber tuning. Kia has also added sound insulation materials to the rear motor area.
Lastly, the OTA (over-the-air) updates can now cover more than just navigation functions, with wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity becoming standard features.
The official distributor of Kia, Dinamikjaya Motors, has launched its third electric vehicle for the Malaysian market, the Kia EV9.
The fully electric SUV is available in two variants, namely the GT-Line AWD 6-seater and the GT-Line AWD 7-seater, priced at RM369,668 and RM374,668, respectively.
Both variants feature a twin electric motor configuration producing a total system output 380 hp and 700 Nm, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 200 km/h.
The battery specifications are also the same, with both variatns utilising a 99.8 kWh lithium-ion battery that offers a driving range of up to 505 km on a full charge.
For charging, the EV9 is equipped with DC fast charging that can handle up to 350 kW, enabling the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. It also supports 11 kW AC charging, which requires 10.5 hours for a full charge.
The EV9 is the second Kia model built using the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) after the EV6. It measures 5,015 mm in length, 1,980 mm in width, 1,780 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm.
Its exterior design is highlighted by the Digital Tiger Face, featuring the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille, vertical LED headlights with two clusters of small cube lamps, and Star Map daytime running lights at the rear. Both variants come with 21-inch wheels.
Inside, there is a floating panoramic dashboard housing two 12.3-inch screens and an additional 5-inch segment display that gives the driver access to all vehicle functionalities. There are also two small displays on the door panels that display video feed from the exterior cameras.
Other features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charging, USB-C charging ports in the front, middle, and rear, ambient lighting, and a Meridian audio system with 14 speakers.
Thanks to the flexible Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) charging system, the EV9 also has Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, supplying up to 3.6 kWh of power to charge various electronic devices.
There’s also Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), consisting features such as High Beam Assist (HBA), Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist (RCCA), Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA2), Lane Following Assist (LFA2), and Smart Cruise Control (SCC).
The EV9 is fully imported from South Korea and is available in five colours – Ocean Blue, Snow White Pearl, Pebble Grey, Aurora Black Pearl, and Iceberg Green. It comes with a manufacturer’s warranty for five years/150,000 km and a battery warranty for eight years/160,000 km.
DINAMIKJAYA Motors Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Kia brand in Malaysia, has introduced the 2024 Kia Carnival, which brings a slew of upgrades.
As before, the Carnival is locally assembled and is available in configurations of seven-, eight- and 11-seat configurations. However, the number of offered variants has been reduced from four to three, namely:
2.2L 11-seater – RM198,500
2.2L 8-seater – RM245,888
2.2L 7-seater – RM259,888
All three variants are powered by a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine producing 199 hp at 3,800 rpm and 440 Nm from 1,750 to 2,750 rpm.
The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission tasked with delivering power to the front wheels.
What’s new with the 2024 model? According to Dinamikjaya, the appearance of the seven and eight-seater Carnival models has been enhanced with black 19-inch alloy wheels, as well as black and gray leatherette upholstery.
Both variants retain the premium features offered previously, which include LED daytime running lights, twin sunroof, Smart Power Sliding Door, and Smart Power Tailgate.
Additionally, niceties such as heated and ventilated seats, LED interior lighting, and Surround View Monitor are also carried over. However, the Premium Relaxation seats with its centre walkthrough configuration are only available in the seven-seater variant.
Meanwhile, the 11-seater Carnival continues to offer four rows of seating with a 2-3-3-3 configuration, suitable for those with large families.
For entertainment, the Carnival comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside creature comforts such as wireless charging, Bluetooth, and seven USB charging ports.
The safety system for the seven and eight-seater variants has been upgraded with the addition of a new feature, the Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM).
In case you didn’t know, the Carnival is locally assembled at the Inokom assembly plant in Kulim, Kedah. For the 2024 model, there are four exterior colours to choose from – Astra Blue, Snow White Pearl, Meteor Gray, and Jet Black.
Bookings for the MPV are now open, and each purchase comes with a manufacturer’s warranty for five years/100,000 km and a free scheduled maintenance package for five years/100,000 km.
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