Kia Streamlines Carens MPV Range, Drops 8 of 9 Variants

Kia India has undertaken a major restructuring of its Carens MPV portfolio, significantly reducing the number of variants and transmission choices available to customers. The move comes just ahead of the launch of the all-new Carens Clavis, a premium offering slated for May 23. The Clavis will be positioned above the Carens in the brand’s multi-purpose vehicle lineup. 

Also Read: Kia Keeps Carens Alive in Entry Trims, CNG Variant Under Consideration

Since its debut in 2022, the Kia Carens has been offered in nine variants: Premium, Premium (O), Gravity, Prestige, Prestige (O), Prestige Plus, Prestige Plus (O), Luxury Plus, and X-Line. In a sharp strategic pivot, eight of these have been discontinued. The only remaining variant is the Premium (O), now priced at ₹11.41 lakh (ex-showroom).

Alongside the variant rationalisation, Kia has also streamlined the powertrain offerings for the Carens. The Premium (O) trim is now available with three engine options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (113 bhp, 144 Nm), a 1.5-litre diesel unit (114 bhp, 250 Nm), and a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine (159 bhp, 253 Nm).

Also Read: Kia Carens Clavis Revealed; Bookings Open May 9

However, buyers seeking automatic transmissions will find their choices significantly reduced. Kia has discontinued the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and 6-speed torque converter automatic options. The naturally aspirated petrol and diesel engines are now offered solely with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the turbo-petrol unit comes paired with a 6-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission).

Despite the trimmed-down lineup, the Premium (O) variant retains a relatively strong feature package for its segment. It includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, voice command support, and a 6-speaker audio system. Additional features include a rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines, electric ORVMs with integrated LED turn indicators, five USB Type-C charging ports, follow-me-home headlamps, and keyless entry with a burglar alarm.

Also Read: Kia Carens Clavis vs Kia Carens: What Is Different?