As fuel prices continue to rise, carmakers are now adding CNG-powered models to their mainstream passenger vehicle line-up. With Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors continuing to add CNG-powered models to their portfolio, Kia India seems to be eager to get its slice of the pie. A CNG-powered Carens has been spotted on test, which follows the sighting of a Sonet CNG test mule that was seen recently.
With the Carens CNG, Kia will have a third fuel option in the model's range, along with the existing petrol and diesel powertrains. As the spy photo suggests, Kia is likely to introduce the CNG with the more powerful 140hp, 1.4-litre turbo engine.
- Kia Carens CNG to rival Ertiga CNG, XL6 CNG
- Could hit the showrooms this year
- CNG option likely to be available in multiple variants
Kia Carens CNG: what does the spy photo suggest?
The spy photo clearly shows the Carens with a CNG tank in its boot. Kia's choice of offering the Carens with the 1.4-litre engine, is likely to give it a power advantage over the 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol motor. The engine will likely be paired to the 6-speed manual transmission. Apart from the two petrol engines, the Carens is also available with a 115hp, 1.5-litre diesel unit.
While almost every CNG-powered model in India comes with a naturally aspirated petrol engine, Kia India seems to be bucking the trend and taking the turbo-petrol route, with the Carens CNG being the second turbo-petrol model being readied. The Sonet CNG test mule that was spotted recently also seems to be equipped with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.
Kia Carens CNG: rivals in India
Kia could introduce the Carens CNG sometime this year, following the launch of the Sonet CNG. On its arrival, the Carens CNG will take on the facelifted Maruti-Suzuki Ertiga CNG. Maruti Suzuki could also consider going the CNG route for its recently facelifted premium MPV – the XL6.
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Viraaj Bhatnagar
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