Kia SP Concept production version to be launched in South Korea in H2 2019

Last week, it was showcased in South Korea for the first time, at the 2018 Busan Motor Show.

Unveiling the Kia SP Concept in South Korea, Kia President Park Han-woo said: "We are introducing the SP concept car, a futuristic SUV with cutting-edge image that boasts a strong style, for the first time in Korea." "We are aiming at a stylish young customer who leads the trend, and we are planning to introduce a mass production model to the domestic market in the second half of next year," he added.

The Kia SP Concept was confirmed for market launch only in India initially, but now we know that it will be sold in South Korea too. It will be sold alongside the Kia Stonic. Kia will likely locally manufacture the new SUV for its domestic market.

In India, the production version of the SP Concept will be launched in the second half of 2019. The production will take place at a new plant in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh. Kia is currently looking for suppliers for sourcing locally-built components.

After the Kia SP Concept in 2019, Kia will launch a sub-4 metre SUV in 2020 and maybe an electric vehicle in 2021. It may launch the Kia Sportage and Kia Carnival as well. These models would be imported in CKD kits and be assembled at the new plant.