Latest Update: Kia Carens has been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 8.99 lakh. Click here for details.
Kia has finally taken the wraps off the Carens (Car+Renaissance) SUV that will go up against the Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, MG Hector Plus, and Tata Safari. It is expected to be launched in the first quarter of 2022.
Kia Carens – Design
The all-new Carens has debuted Kia’s new ‘Opposite United’ design language in India. It has Kia’s latest iteration of the tiger-nose grille, flanked by quirky-shaped LED daytime running lamps (based on Star Map concept) with a split headlamp setup underneath. It gets stocky body cladding all around the car, giving it a robust appearance. The other notable design elements of the car include a tapering roofline, an upright tailgate section with connected LED tail lamps, and silver skid plates, increasing its SUV credentials. It will be offered in seven colour options – Blue, Brown, Black Pearl, Silver, Red and White Pearl.
While Carens’ dimensions are yet to be revealed, the carmaker claims that it will come with the segment’s largest wheelbase.
Kia Carens – Interior & Key Features
The Kia Carens gets a unique dashboard layout with glossy black colour trim and a 10.25-inch integrated touchscreen infotainment system. Kia claims that it has been specially designed for Indian customers. It will be offered in both 6-and 7-seater configurations with the former getting electrically tumble captain seats in the middle row for added comfort and convenience.
Being a Kia model, the Carens is loaded up to the brim. The notable features include UVO connected car technology, digital display cluster, auto climate control, ventilated front seats, roof-mounted rear AC vents, pop-out cup holders, spotlight with Kia logo, keyless entry with engine start/stop, wireless charging, in-built air purifier, three driving modes, a Bose sound system, seat-back foldable table, single-pane electric sunroof, ambient lighting, cruise control, and much more. On the safety front, the Kia Carens will get 6-airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill start assist, down brake control, tyre pressure monitoring system, all-wheel disc brakes, etc as standard.
Kia Carens – Powertrain
While Kia hasn’t revealed the engine options, it will come with both petrol and diesel engines mills with multiple transmission options. We expect it to come with Hyundai Alcazar’s 159PS 2.0-liter naturally aspirated petrol and 115PS 1.5-litre diesel engine, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
Kia Carens – Expected Price
We reckon Kia will offer the Carens from Rs 15-20 lakh price range (ex-showroom Delhi).