Kia and Mazda reveal new electric vehicle production and model updates

Internal leaks from Kia suggest the brand is expanding its electric SUV lineup with the introduction of the EV7, scheduled for production starting in 2028 at the Gwangju plant. The EV7 is expected to be a mid-sized SUV, larger than the EV5 but smaller than the seven-seater EV9. Additionally, Kia plans to launch a new generation of the Carnival minivan in 2028, which may include hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell versions.

Mazda is also advancing its electrification strategy with the Mazda 6e and CX-6e. The Mazda 6e is an electric coupe-style vehicle designed to compete with the Tesla Model 3, featuring a 78 kWh battery with an estimated range of 560 km. The CX-6e is an electric SUV aimed at the European market, offering a range of up to 484 km. Reports indicate the Mazda 6e is based on a modified Changan Deepal S03 and will be produced in China.

In other updates, the 2027 Kia EV9 will arrive in the United States with minor equipment changes and stable pricing. The Land trim will now include the Nightfall Edition package as standard. Meanwhile, the third-generation Mazda CX-5 has undergone a major redesign, featuring the new MAZDA E/E ARCHITECTURE+ and improved interior space, though some dealers have expressed interest in a diesel variant.