Kia Carens Overview
Kia Extends the Carnes Family With New Clavis Trim
October 9, 2025: Kia India, the Indian alliance of the Korean carmaker, has extended the line-up of Carens with a new trim named "Clavis" with a new HTX(O) variant. The new variant is priced at Rs 19.27 lakh (ex-showroom price). The new trim will be available for sale from October 13, 2025 and comes with premium features like an eight-speaker Bose sound system, drive modes, remote engine start, and electric parking brake with auto hold. Powered by a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with 7-speed DCT, the Carens Clavis now offers more seating choices, advanced safety features, and enhanced comfort for modern family needs.
Kia Carens Looks
Exterior Design – Mature and Functional
The Kia Carens’ Clavis carries an unconventional design than its predecessor. The new trim is quite different from its first generation. The split-headlight design, body-coloured bumpers, and chrome-surrounded air dam lend the MPV a distinctive yet subtle appeal.
Being offered in a lower-spec variant, the Carens misses LED headlamps and DRLs, settling for halogen units. Its MPV credentials are unmistakable—flat shoulder lines, large glass panels, tall roofline, and expansive rear doors highlight its focus on space and comfort. The 15-inch or 16-inch wheels (depending on engine type) look adequate for its dimensions, while the rear design is simple and tasteful, featuring connected taillights and a chrome-accented bumper.
The new trim comes with six-colour option including Imperial Blue, Aurora Black Pearl, Sparkling Silver, Gravity Grey, Clear White, and Pewter Olive — the Carens maintains an understated yet family-oriented design language.
Interior and Cabin Experience
Design and Quality
The interior receives a dual-tone black-and-beige colour cabin combination complemented by dark blue inserts and brushed silver accents. While the overall quality feels solid, it doesn’t quite match the premium finish of higher-spec versions. Still, for its price, the fit-and-finish is impressive, with sturdy plastics and well-thought-out ergonomics.
The dashboard’s wraparound design that merges seamlessly into the doors is reminiscent of the Kia Carnival’s cocooned layout. The front seats offer a commanding position, though not as high as SUVs like the Seltos. Visibility is good, and controls are within easy reach.
Second and Third Row Comfort
The second-row seats are supportive, featuring slide and recline adjustments and a raised base that improves under-thigh comfort. However, the backrests are intentionally low to give third-row passengers better visibility, slightly compromising shoulder support for tall passengers. Large side windows ensure a bright and airy feel.
The third row, often a compromise in MPVs, is surprisingly adult-friendly. It accommodates average-sized adults comfortably, aided by good headroom and knee space. Ingress and egress are simple thanks to a low floor, wide rear doors, and tumble-forward second-row seats. An electric release mechanism for the left middle seat further enhances convenience.
Features and Equipment
Even as a mid-spec model, the Carens packs essential features for everyday usability. It comes equipped with:
• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Semi-digital instrument cluster
• 6-speaker sound system
• All four power windows
That said, luxury features like a sunroof, ventilated seats, larger infotainment display, and air purifier are reserved for the newer Carens Clavis variants. Still, the standard Carens delivers a balanced mix of comfort and practicality for its price range.
Boot Space and Practicality
Practicality is one of the Kia Carens’ strongest points. Even with all three rows up, it offers enough room for a medium suitcase and a few soft bags. Folding down the third-row seats liberates a generous luggage area suitable for weekend trips. An underfloor storage compartment adds more versatility, perfect for keeping shoes, repair kits, or small travel items neatly tucked away.
Kia Carens Variants
Write ReviewKia Carens Performance
Performance and Engine Options
Kia offers the Carens with two engine options:
The 1.5-litre diesel engine is refined and efficient, delivering smooth performance for city commutes and highway drives. It doesn’t thrill but impresses with its fuel economy and relaxed cruising capability.
The 1.5-litre petrol unit is ideal for those who prioritise easy drivability. Known for its linear power delivery, it performs well in both urban and open-road conditions. The 6-speed manual gearbox complements both engines, ensuring smooth shifts and predictable response.
| Specifications | 1.5 Litre Petrol | 1.5 Litre Diesel |
| Power | 115 PS | 116 PS |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 250Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Four-wheel drive | Four-wheel drive |
Ride Quality and Handling
Kia has tuned the Carens’ suspension for comfort and composure. Despite its 195mm ground clearance and tall stance, it remains remarkably stable, even at highway speeds. Over potholes and uneven surfaces, it absorbs shocks effectively, providing a plush and cushioned ride.
In the city, the Carens feels agile enough, though its long dimensions can make parking a bit tricky. Steering feedback is on the lighter side — easy for urban driving but slightly artificial at higher speeds. On highways, the MPV remains planted and confidence-inspiring, especially when fully loaded.
Safety and Build
When it comes to safety, the Carens has had a mixed record. Initially, it scored 3 stars in the Global NCAP crash test (2022), but under the more stringent 2024 test norms, its rating dropped to 0 stars — a disappointing outcome for a family MPV.
Nevertheless, it includes an extensive safety suite:
• Six airbags
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear parking camera
However, it lacks the ADAS features now available in the Carens Clavis, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and forward collision warning.
Kia Carens Price
Price and Variants
The Kia Carens is currently offered in two trims. These variants deliver excellent value-for-money, offering seven seats, modern design, and trusted reliability within a competitive price band.
| Variant Engine | Transmission | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) |
| Carens Premium Opt (Base Model) 1.5L Petrol | Manual | 10.99 Lakh |
| Carens Premium Opt Diesel (Top Model) 1.5 L Diesel | Manual | 12.77 Lakh |
