The Bharat Mobility Expo 2025 showcased a growing premium MPV segment, reflecting India’s evolving consumer preferences. As buyers move up the luxury ladder, manufacturers like Kia, Toyota, Hyundai, and MG are bringing high-end MPVs to the market, aiming to challenge the dominance of the Toyota Vellfire.
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Kia Carnival Hi-Limo
Kia is considering a two-pronged approach with the Carnival and the Hi-Limo. While the Carnival diesel continues, the Hi-Limo takes things up a notch with a four-seat ultra-luxury layout.
Key Features:
- Exterior: Retains Carnival’s design but with a plush, private-jet-like cabin.
- Engine Options:
- 2.2L Diesel
- 3.5L V6 (292 bhp, 355 Nm)
- Transmission: 8-speed AT, FWD
- Target Market: Competes with the Toyota Vellfire in India’s luxury MPV space.
Expected Launch: No official timeline yet; Kia is currently gauging public interest.
Toyota Vellfire
The Toyota Vellfire, the pioneer of premium MPVs, continues to dominate the luxury chauffeur-driven segment.
Key Highlights:
- Powertrain:
- 2.5L Hybrid Petrol Engine (142 bhp)
- Electric Motor (141 bhp)
- Total Torque: 240 Nm
- Driving Range: 1,157 km
- Cabin: Four-seat lounge setup with ultra-premium interiors.
- Popular Buyers: Favored by Bollywood celebrities, business tycoons, and politicians.
Hyundai Staria
With the Carnival’s success, Hyundai is considering launching the Staria MPV.
What to Expect:
- Design: Unconventional, futuristic looks.
- Powertrain: Likely to share the Carnival’s diesel engine.
- Variants: Multiple trims expected.
- Pricing: Positioned above the Carnival, making it Hyundai’s most expensive offering in India.
- Market Positioning: Luxury MPV with a futuristic appeal.
MG M9 (Mifa)
MG is entering the premium MPV segment with the M9 (globally known as Mifa).
Key Features:
- EV-Only Powertrain
- Claimed Range: 430 km
- Ultra-Luxurious Cabin
- Expected Launch: May 2025
- Positioning: Second model in MG Select Showrooms, targeting high-end buyers.
Key Observations
- Luxury MPVs are rising in demand, targeting chauffeur-driven buyers.
- Hybrid and Electric options dominate, with Toyota and MG leading the charge.
- Four-seat, ultra-premium cabins with ottoman seats, powered doors, and interactive screens are now standard.
- CKD (Completely Knocked Down) imports will ensure premium pricing, given the limited but strong demand.
With the Toyota Vellfire leading the segment, new players like Kia Hi-Limo, Hyundai Staria, and MG M9 are set to intensify competition. Whether diesel, hybrid, or all-electric, the premium MPV market is now more diverse than ever.
FAQs
Which premium MPVs were showcased at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025?
Kia Carnival Hi-Limo, Toyota Vellfire, Hyundai Staria, and MG M9 were highlighted.
What is the powertrain of the Toyota Vellfire?
It features a 2.5L hybrid petrol engine with an electric motor, offering 1,157 km range.
Is Hyundai launching the Staria in India?
Hyundai is considering the Staria as a CKD model, with premium pricing above the Carnival.
What makes the Kia Hi-Limo different from the standard Carnival?
The Hi-Limo features a four-seat ultra-luxury layout with premium enhancements.
When will the MG M9 launch in India?
The MG M9 (Mifa) is expected to launch by May 2025.
