Kia has unveiled the all-new fourth-generation of the Carens in India. The model is dubbed as a “three-row recreational vehicle” adopting SUV/crossover styling cues while retaining the family-friendly character of its predecessors with a focus on practicality. The new Carens is sharing its platform with the Seltos. While the models have the same width of 1,800 mm, the Carens is both longer, measuring 4,540 mm and taller, at 1,700 mm, than the Seltos. The wheelbase has also been stretched at a class-leading 2,780 mm.
Aesthetically, the Carens is a huge
departure from its minivan predecessor with bold styling in line with Kia’s
latest design language called “Opposites United“. With the exception of the
16-inch wheels that look rather small for the tall body, the Carens looks like
a proper SUV with modern LED headlights/taillights, aluminum-style skid plates,
and plastic cladding all around the bodywork. More specifically, the front end
has a unique look thanks to the “Crown Jewel Headlamps” and the large central
intake inspired by the Soul, while the tail has hints of the Sportage.
Inside, the dashboard is pretty modern for
a car of this segment, with a design that expands towards the doors. The
central 10.25-inch touchscreen incorporates the Kia Connect infotainment which
is compatible with over-the-air updates. Optional equipment also includes an
eight-speaker Bose Premium Sound System, ambient mood lighting with 64 colors,
the SkyLight sunroof, Multi Drive Modes (Sport/Eco/Normal), plus Kia’s air
purifier system for protection from viruses and bacteria.
In terms of practicality, there are three
rows of seats with plenty of interior space. The second row has the “One Touch
Easy Electric Tumble” for easy ingress and egress, while features like the
retractable seatback tables, the sliding type seat undertray, the cooling cup
holders, the AC vents for all rows, the five USB-C ports, the rear-door
sunshade curtains, and the storage pockets for bottles and gadgets are making
life easier for large families. All trim levels of the Kia Carens come standard
with the Hi-Secure Safety Package which includes six airbags, disc brakes, and
basic electronic systems like ECS, ABS, and Hill-Start Control.
Under the bonnet, there is a choice
between a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol, a turbocharged 1.4-liter
petrol, or a 1.5-liter diesel combined with a six-speed manual, a seven-speed
dual-clutch automatic, or a six-speed torque-converter automatic respectively,
all sending power to the front axle. The Kia Carens will be available in India
and other selected markets starting from the first quarter of 2022.
