Kia Sales Malaysia officially begins operations, announces major price cuts for Sportage and Carnival; EV9 pricing maintained
Kuala Lumpur: Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM), which was officially launched last month, has now commenced full operations in the Malaysian market, marking a significant new chapter for the South Korean brand locally. Alongside the start of its business activities, KSM has unveiled a series of customer-focused initiatives, headlined by a bold new pricing strategy that sees substantial reductions across key models.
Effective January 1, 2026, prices for the Kia Sportage and Kia Carnival have been significantly revised, improving their competitiveness in the crowded SUV and MPV segments. In some cases, prices are now lower by as much as RM52,000, underscoring KSM’s commitment to rewarding both existing and new Kia customers.
Kia Sportage now more affordable across the range
The Kia Sportage continues to be offered in the same four locally assembled (CKD) variants introduced earlier this year, comprising both naturally aspirated and turbocharged powertrains. Under the new pricing structure, all variants receive notable reductions.
New on-the-road prices (without insurance):
- 2.0G 2WD – RM129,639.10 (down RM17,579.50)
- 2.0G 2WD High – RM139,639.10 (down RM15,579.50)
- 1.6T 2WD High – RM159,320 (down RM17,579)
- 1.6T AWD High – RM179,320 (down RM7,579)
These revisions position the Sportage as a stronger contender against rivals in the mid-size SUV segment, particularly for buyers prioritising value without sacrificing features or design.
Kia Carnival price slashed by up to RM52,000
Even more dramatic are the adjustments made to the Kia Carnival. The CKD MPV is now offered in two variants – 2.2D 8-Seater and 2.2D 7-Seater – with the previously available 11-seater no longer listed.
New on-the-road prices (without insurance):
- 2.2D 8-Seater – RM193,860.80 (down RM52,027)
- 2.2D 7-Seater – RM218,960.80 (down RM40,927)
With these reductions, the Carnival becomes one of the most compelling premium MPV offerings in Malaysia, especially for families and business users seeking space, comfort and diesel efficiency.
Kia EV9 pricing unchanged despite tax changes
Meanwhile, the all-electric Kia EV9 retains its previous pricing, even as Malaysia’s CBU EV tax exemptions ended on December 31, 2025. Sold in GT-Line six- and seven-seat configurations, the EV9’s pricing remains unchanged from when it was offered by former distributor Dinamikjaya Motors, apart from the addition of RM515 in road tax.
Despite the application of excise duties, KSM’s decision to maintain pricing reflects a strategic move to sustain the EV9’s competitiveness in the premium electric SUV space.
Enhanced ownership experience and after-sales support
Beyond pricing, KSM has also rolled out several initiatives aimed at strengthening customer confidence and long-term ownership satisfaction. All newly purchased Kia vehicles in Malaysia now come with a five-year or 150,000 km warranty, in line with Kia’s global standards.
In addition, KSM has announced an average 15% price reduction on all Kia genuine spare parts, supported by a dedicated parts warehouse located in Shah Alam, Selangor, to ensure faster availability and shorter after-sales lead times.
Loyalty, corporate incentives and insurance programmes introduced
To further enhance its ecosystem, KSM has launched Kia Circle, a loyalty programme offering cash rebates of up to RM6,000 for existing Kia owners upgrading to a new Kia. The programme also extends benefits to immediate family members.
Corporate customers and professionals are catered for through Kia Professional, which provides concessions of up to 3% for eligible members and customisable incentives for fleet purchases.
Completing the ownership package is Kia Cares, an insurance programme underwritten by Berjaya Sompo, Zurich and Zurich Takaful. It offers comprehensive coverage with optional add-ons, allowing owners to tailor protection to their individual needs.
With aggressive repricing, enhanced after-sales support and a comprehensive ownership ecosystem, Kia Sales Malaysia is signalling a strong push to re-establish the brand’s presence and competitiveness in the local market.
