Kia Carens CNG Variant Under Consideration

Kia India is actively exploring the possibility of introducing a CNG variant for its popular MPV, the Carens. The development comes alongside the launch of the Carens Clavis, a premium addition to the Carens portfolio, which targets a different segment of buyers. The current Carens model, which will remain on sale in its lower trims, may receive a CNG upgrade if testing proves successful. 

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According to Hardeep Singh Brar, Senior Vice President and National Head of Sales and Marketing at Kia India, the move is being considered in light of the growing market preference for fuel-efficient and budget-friendly mobility solutions. "If our testing proves to be successful, we will bring it [CNG] in the Carens," Brar told a media publication. 

CNG vehicles are gaining significant traction in India, with domestic volumes rising sharply from 4,01,744 units in FY23 to 6,25,400 units in FY24, and further to 8,38,306 units in FY25. This upward trend signals a shift among Indian consumers toward cleaner and more cost-effective alternatives, particularly in urban and semi-urban markets.

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Despite this, Brar emphasised that Kia would only introduce a CNG variant if it meets the company’s performance standards. “It has to be the best CNG car,” he stated, underlining Kia’s focus on quality and product differentiation. He also acknowledged that CNG’s limited refueling infrastructure remains a constraint for long-distance drivers, which is why diesel still retains relevance in the Carens lineup.

Currently, diesel variants constitute 42–43% of total Carens sales—well above the national average of 18.3% for diesel-powered vehicles. Kia continues to offer diesel options across all its internal combustion engine (ICE) models, with the fuel type accounting for nearly 40% of its overall sales volume in FY25. The company sold close to 1,00,000 diesel units out of a total of 2,50,000 units last year.

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Brar attributed diesel’s ongoing appeal to its widespread availability, high torque, and superior fuel efficiency—factors that are particularly valued by intercity travelers and commercial users. "You cannot rely on CNG and EVs for intercity travel at present," he said, citing infrastructural and performance limitations.

In terms of portfolio strategy, Kia has no plans to diversify into hatchbacks or sedans. The automaker remains focused on the SUV and MPV segments, which include the Sonet, Seltos, and the newly introduced Clavis, along with the Carens and Carnival. In the EV space, Kia is currently offering the premium EV6 and the flagship EV9, underscoring its commitment to electrification alongside its ICE and alternative fuel offerings.