Moneycontrol PRO
HomeAutomobileMG M9 vs Kia Carnival: Why compare electric MPV with diesel model?

MG M9 vs Kia Carnival: Why compare electric MPV with diesel model?

Both M9 and Carnival are premium MPVs but the former is an electric model, while the latter uses a diesel powertrain.

July 22, 2025 / 20:44 IST
Kia Carnival vs MG M9

The Kia Carnival (left) will take on the MG M9 (right).

JSW MG Motor India recently launched the MG M9 electric MPV. While the new model has no direct rival in the battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment at present, we do have a similarly-sized model in the MPV space, but it offers a diesel powertrain only. It is none other than the Kia Carnival.

While the MPV segment contributed nearly 11% to the domestic car volumes in India in FY25, the M9 and the Carnival are not exactly volume drivers, owing to their premium positioning. Both vehicles cater to customers seeking luxury, space and technology, but their core attributes differ considerably.

MG M9 vs Kia Carnival: Price


The M9 and the Carnival are available in a single, fully-loaded variant. While the M9 is priced at Rs 69.90 lakh (ex-showroom, introductory), the Carnival is offered at Rs 63.91 lakh (ex-showroom).

MG M9 vs Kia Carnival: Powertrain


The powertrain is where these two vehicles diverge most sharply. And that is why the headline!

The M9 employs an electric motor (245 PS and 350 Nm), which is mounted on the front axle. The motor derives power from a 90 kWh NMC battery. The ARAI-certified M9 range on a single full charge is 548 km.

At the heart of the Carnival is a 2.2-litre CRDi diesel engine, which produces 193 PS of maximum power and 441 Nm of peak torque. The engine comes mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The claimed Carnival mileage is 14.85 kmpl.

MG M9 vs Kia Carnival: Dimensions


In terms of dimensions, the M9 is slightly bigger than the Carnival. However, when you look at both of them, you will not be able to make out the difference since it is minuscule.
DimensionMG M9Kia Carnival
Length5,200 mm5,155 mm
Width2,000 mm1,995 mm
Height1,800 mm1,775 mm
Wheelbase3,200 mm3,090 mm

 

Both models are available in a 7-seater (2+2+3) configuration, and looking at their size, you will not have any space-related issues, irrespective of the row you are in.

Moneycontrol News
first published: Jul 22, 2025 08:44 pm

Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

Subscribe to Tech Newsletters

  • On Saturdays

    Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.

  • Daily-Weekdays

    Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.

Advisory Alert: It has come to our attention that certain individuals are representing themselves as affiliates of Moneycontrol and soliciting funds on the false promise of assured returns on their investments. We wish to reiterate that Moneycontrol does not solicit funds from investors and neither does it promise any assured returns. In case you are approached by anyone making such claims, please write to us at grievanceofficer@nw18.com or call on 02268882347