Kia Carens

The Kia Carens is a seven-seat MPV that first came out in 2022. In 2025, Kia launched the more premium Carens Clavis but kept the regular Kia Carens on sale as a simpler, more affordable option. Today, the Carens comes in a single Premium (O) trim with a choice of petrol, diesel or factory-fitted CNG, all with a 6-speed manual. It rivals the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and Toyota Rumion. The cabin has a classy layered dashboard and black-and-beige seats, and every version gets six airbags, an 8-inch touchscreen and AC vents for the second and third rows.

As per our experts at Autocar India, its third row is roomy enough for medium-sized adults and easy to get into. It is also easy to drive and rides comfortably. On the flip side, there is no automatic any more, and the sole trim misses some useful features. 

Kia Carens Price Details

• Premium (O) Petrol MT (base model): Rs 11.02 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Premium (O) CNG MT (mid variant): Rs 12.12 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Premium (O) Diesel MT (top model): Rs 12.88 lakh (ex-showroom)

Kia Carens Road Test Findings

What we liked

• The third row is roomy and comfortable. Plus, the one-touch seat tumble makes access to the third row easier.
• The petrol engine is smooth and quiet at low and medium speeds.
• It doesn't feel as big as it is in traffic, and it stays stable and composed at highway speeds.
• The layered dashboard gives the cabin a more upmarket look.

What we did not like

• The petrol engine gets loud when revved hard.
• With seven people on board, the diesel feels underpowered, particularly on uphill stretches.
• The boot is small with all three rows up, and the high floor makes loading luggage harder.
• This basic trim misses useful kit like a rear wiper and washer, and alloy wheels

Is The Carens The Right Family Car For You?

The Carens is less suited to buyers who want an automatic or a feature-rich cabin. All versions come with a manual gearbox, and the sole trim has steel wheels and misses features such as a sunroof and automatic climate control.