Explore the Kia Carens MPV: Features, Space, and Value
The Kia Carens stands out as a top contender in the 6 and 7-seater MPV car segment. If your budget is between 10.45 Lakhs and 20 Lakhs, the Carens offers a luxurious interior and a wide range of features. This article explores the details of this impressive family car, focusing on its accessible base model and various options.
Kia Carens Variants and Engine Options
The Kia Carens is available in several variants, including Premium, Prestige, Luxury, and X-Line. When it comes to power, you have the choice of both diesel and petrol engine options to suit your driving preferences.
Exterior Design: A Closer Look at the Kia Carens Base Model
The exterior of the Kia Carens base model showcases a modern design. The front features a large Kia logo and a glossy black, closed-type grille. It comes with halogen base headlamps, with turn indicators placed on the fender. This base variant does not include DRLs (Daytime Running Lights). The lower grille is black, complemented by a skid plate for added protection. The car also features an engine guard and offers a notable 195mm of ground clearance. Dual wipers and washers are also present on the front windshield.
From the side, the base model is identifiable by the indicators on its fenders. The outside mirrors and door handles are body-colored. It comes with a normal manual physical key. The car rides on 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers and 195/65 R15 Radley tires. Black cladding runs along the side, adding to its robust look. The ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) are body-colored and can be manually adjusted and folded. The A-pillar is finished in glossy black.
The rear profile of the Carens maintains a refined look. It features a large Kia logo in the center. The tail lights are connected, with indicators integrated into the side lights (the center part does not light up). This base model does not include a rear wiper or defogger. A high-mounted stop lamp, an integrated spoiler, and a power antenna are located at the top. The license plate light is yellow. The bumper is blacked out and includes reflectors and four reverse parking sensors. A spare wheel and exhaust pipe are visible below.
Spacious and Feature-Rich Interior
Stepping inside the Kia Carens base model reveals a dual-tone dashboard. While this variant requires an audio system to be installed later, the overall interior offers practicality. The car has a black running board and standard body-colored door handles.
Driver-Focused Comfort and Controls
The driver’s door trim is also dual-tone and includes silver-finished door openers. All four power windows can be controlled from the driver’s side. Bottle holders are provided, though speakers need to be added separately. The ORVMs are manually adjustable using a stick. The driver’s seat offers both height adjustment and recline options. Near the driver’s feet, you’ll find the fuel lid opener, manual transmission pedals, a dead pedal, and a lever to open the bonnet. Controls for traction control, idle start/stop, and headlight adjustment are also present.
The base model features a fully digital instrument cluster, similar to the Kia Seltos, displaying various check lights and vehicle information. The steering wheel carries the Kia logo and includes controls for the multi-information display (MID). It is tilt-adjustable. The MID shows drive assist details, cluster light settings, door convenience, language options, and reset functions. It also provides information on TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), traction, drive info, trip details, average mileage, range, fuel gauge, and temperature. The hazard light switch, manual AC controls, a 12V charging outlet, and a Type-C USB port are located in the center console. Empty buttons are present, designed for features like ventilated seats found in higher variants. A hill descent control switch is also included, along with ample space for phone storage. The car comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, with an IMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) option also available. Two glass holders and an armrest are present. Six airbags are a standard safety feature across the range. The glove box provides storage for documents. The IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror) is manually adjustable. A sunglass holder and yellow roof lights are also provided. The driver’s sun visor has a vanity mirror, while the passenger’s sun visor includes a ticket holder.
Second and Third Row Practicality
The rear doors also feature dual-tone trim, silver-finished door openers, power window controls, and bottle holders. Sun blinds are a thoughtful addition for rear passengers. Rear AC vents with fan speed controls are provided, along with two Type-C USB ports, ensuring comfort and connectivity for passengers. The Carens offers good legroom and thigh support in the second row. Roof-mounted AC vents and yellow lights further enhance comfort.
Accessing the third row is easy with a one-touch fold seat mechanism. The third row provides decent space, with adjustable headrests available even in the base model. The seats offer a 60:40 split-fold option. Passengers in the third row benefit from seatbelts, AC vents, roof lights, a Type-C USB port, and glass holders. While suitable for children, taller adults might find it slightly compact.
Impressive Dimensions and Flexible Boot Space
The Kia Carens measures 4540mm in length, 1800mm in width, and 1708mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2780mm, contributing to its spacious cabin.
Boot space is a key highlight. While 7-seater cars often have limited boot space, the Carens is versatile. With the third row folded flat, you get a generous boot space of over 400 liters, nearing 500 liters, perfect for five passengers and their luggage. USB ports and glass holders are available in the last row. For seven passengers with the third row upright, there is still a practical 216 liters of boot space. The 50:50 split folding seats allow for flexible cargo configurations.
Performance: Engine Choices and Mileage
The Kia Carens offers robust engine options:
- 1.5-liter Petrol Engine: Produces 113 PS of power and 144 Nm of torque, delivering an estimated mileage of 17-18 kmpl.
- 1.5-liter CRDi Diesel Engine: Generates 114 bhp of power and 250 Nm of torque, offering an estimated mileage of 20-21 kmpl.
Safety First: Advanced Features for Peace of Mind
Safety is a priority in the Kia Carens, with several features included as standard:
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- 6 Airbags
- Reverse Parking Sensors
- Speed Alert System
- Speed Reminder System
- Seat Belt Warning
- Traction Control
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
Kia Carens Pricing and Warranty
The base model of the Kia Carens petrol 7-seater starts at an ex-showroom price of 10.45 Lakhs. The on-road price in Lucknow is approximately 12.07 Lakhs. The Carens comes with a standard warranty of 3 years with unlimited kilometers, which can be extended for an additional cost.
Customization and Upgrade Options
While the base model offers excellent value, higher variants like the Luxury Plus provide an even more premium experience. These versions feature LED automatic headlamps, DRLs, alloy wheels, all-four disc brakes, a premium dashboard, touchscreen infotainment, automatic climate control, leather ventilated front seats, and a sunroof. The choice depends on your budget and desired features, with the base model offering a great foundation for future modifications if desired.
