Toyota Innova has ruled the Indian fleet operators mind since its launch. The Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) or mini van in US parlance is a favourite with larger Indian families thanks to its space, comfortable ride and car like driving characteristics.

After the run away success of the Kia Seltos, the company has now released the teaser video of their next offering. The Kia Carnival would be a direct competitor to the Toyota Innova. It is expected to be launched in the seven seater version in India. The Kia Carnival has a more modern underpinning in the form of a monocoque chassis as against the ladder and frame chassis of the Innova. This would provide a better ride and comfort in the Kia Carnival, an area which has been the forte of the Innova. The interiors of the Carnival are also more modern and upmarket compared to the Innova with the center-stage being occupied by an 8″ touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Going by the trims and features offered by Kia on the Seltos, the Kia Carnival is expected to come loaded with various conveniences and luxury features. The Kia Carnival is expected to be launched with a 4 cylinder inline 2.8 litre diesel engine complying with BS6 norms. This engine is expected to generate 200 PS of power and 441 N-m of torque as compared to 174 PS and 360 N-m generated by the diesel engine in the Innova Crysta. Will it be able to the beat the Innova at its game? It will depend on the pricing, reliability and service. The battle for the king of the fleet operators is on.

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