Kia Rebrands Upcoming Premium Carens Variant as 'Clavis', Launch on May 8

Kia India has officially revealed the name of its upcoming premium MPV: Kia Clavis. Scheduled to make its debut on May 8, 2025, the Clavis will be positioned as a more advanced and upscale alternative to the existing Carens MPV. Notably, Kia will continue selling the Carens alongside the Clavis, targeting a broader range of customers across varying budget and feature preferences.

In terms of market positioning, the Clavis will be slotted above the Carens in Kia’s lineup. With the Carens currently priced between ₹10.60 lakh and ₹19.50 lakh (ex-showroom), the Clavis is expected to carry a higher starting price point. This dual-model strategy mirrors Kia’s approach in the subcompact SUV segment, where the Sonet continues to cater to value-focused buyers while the newly introduced Syros targets a more premium, tech-savvy audience. 

The announcement was made via a teaser video released by the automaker, offering a silhouette preview of the Clavis and hinting at a significant shift in design direction. Unlike the conventional MPV styling of the Carens, the Clavis is expected to embrace a bolder, more SUV-inspired look. 

Although complete design details remain under wraps, the teaser and multiple spy sightings suggest several key styling updates. These include a more upright and rugged stance, reworked front and rear bumpers, sleeker LED lighting elements, and new alloy wheel designs. These changes are aimed at enhancing the Clavis’ road presence and giving it an identity distinct from the Carens. The model name “Clavis,” which means “key” in Latin, could also signify Kia’s ambition to unlock new levels of luxury and innovation within the MPV category.

Inside the cabin, the Clavis is expected to introduce a host of segment-first features and significant upgrades in design and technology. Early information points to the inclusion of Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), a 360-degree surround view camera, a panoramic sunroof, and a newly designed dashboard and center console. Dual 10.25-inch digital displays—one for the instrument cluster and another for infotainment—will likely be offered, along with ventilated front seats, wireless phone charging with cooling, ambient lighting, and a premium audio system. 

On the mechanical front, the Clavis is expected to share its powertrain lineup with the current Carens. This includes a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol unit, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. Transmission options are likely to include manual, intelligent manual transmission (iMT), dual-clutch automatic (DCT), and conventional automatic gearboxes.