Kia’s Malaysia business starts 2026 with an EV twist.
While Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM) moves to make its mainstream models more affordable, the brand’s flagship EV9 edges the other way in price as electric vehicle road tax returns.
From Jan 1, 2026, KSM has assumed responsibility for local operations and introduced revised pricing across its three-vehicle line-up: the EV9, Sportage and Carnival.
The EV9’s selling price remains unchanged and starts from RM368,888. The only adjustment is linked to the reintroduction of EV road tax from the start of this year, quoted at RM515 per annum. Beyond that, further movement remains possible as earlier, duty-exempt inventory tapers off, depending on remaining stock and timing.
The more immediate consumer impact, however, lands on Kia’s two internal combustion models.
The Sportage range now opens at RM128,800, a reduction of about RM18,200 compared with its earlier entry point. The larger cut applies to the Carnival, where the 2.2-litre diesel 8-seater is now priced at around RM193,000, a drop of about RM52,888 versus previous level. On-the-road pricing without insurance is listed from RM129,639 for the Sportage and RM193,961 for the Carnival 8-seater.
KSM’s latest announcements also hinted at a reduced Carnival range. The 11-seater is not referenced, prompting reports that attention is now on the 7- and 8-seat versions.
Both the Sportage and Carnival continue to be positioned as locally assembled products built in Malaysia at Inokom’s Kulim plant.
After-sales support is another pillar of the reset. KSM said genuine parts prices would fall by an average of 15% and tied the move to a new parts warehouse in Shah Alam, intended to improve parts availability and reduce waiting times.
Ownership coverage has changed as well. New purchases now come with a five-year warranty capped at 150,000km, extending the earlier mileage limit of 100,000km.
At the same time, Kia no longer promotes the free scheduled maintenance programme previously attached to certain deals.
KSM is also rolling out customer programmes aimed at retention. Kia Circle offers up to RM6,000 for existing owners and immediate family members who upgrade.
Kia Professional offers up to 3% concessions for selected corporate and professional buyers. A “Kia Cares” insurance package is offered through Berjaya Sompo, Zurich and Zurich Takaful, with options such as agreed value cover and unlimited towing.
It’s obvious that KSM’s opening moves point to a practical attempt to rebuild confidence, strengthen dealers and steady Kia’s product plan in Malaysia.
