Kia Carens

Kia Carens carries forward its design from previous models, maintaining its SUV-like stance while integrating subtle touches to distinguish it. Although there are no major changes from the earlier versions, the iMT variant does come with a small iMT badge on the tailgate to mark the semi-automatic gearbox.

Despite minimal changes, the Kia Carens maintains its bold and premium appeal with a distinctive front grille, well-integrated LED lighting elements, and stylish alloy wheels. These design elements give it an SUV-like appearance that enhances its road presence, even though it competes in the MPV segment.

The Kia Carens iMT is powered by a 1.5-liter diesel engine, mated to a 6-speed iMT gearbox. The engine produces 113 bhp and 250 Nm of torque, providing smooth power delivery. However, the iMT technology is what makes this variant unique, allowing drivers to change gears manually without the need for a clutch pedal.

• Driving Experience: The iMT system offers a clutchless driving experience, making gear shifts feel smoother than in a traditional manual setup. While the power delivery is generally smooth, there is some turbo lag at lower RPMs. During overtaking or hard acceleration, the driver may need to shift down to generate more urgency.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Carens iMT delivers 13-15 km/l in city driving, which is impressive given its size and the engine's power output

The Kia Carens iMT handles city traffic and highway cruising with ease, thanks to its balanced ride quality and smooth transmission shifts. The lack of a clutch pedal makes driving in stop-and-go traffic far less tiring than a traditional manual.

Although the iMT gearbox takes a bit of time to get used to, once the driver adapts, it becomes a more convenient option, especially for city driving. The system even provides warnings on the MID screen to downshift to the ideal gear if the driver misses a gear shift.

The 2023 Kia Carens is known for its spacious interior and focus on passenger comfort, especially for second and third-row occupants. The cabin is practical and well-built, with ample legroom and features designed to enhance long journeys.

Features like ventilated seats, a sunroof, and an air purifier ensure that passengers remain comfortable and cool, even during long summer drives. The Carens feels spacious and well-lit, thanks to the light-colored upholstery and large windows.

The Kia Carens is packed with features that cater to modern-day tech needs, especially in the higher variants. From advanced connectivity options to practical daily-use features, the Carens ensures a comfortable and connected driving experience.

The auto start-stop button, a new addition, helps improve fuel efficiency, particularly during long city commutes with frequent stoplights. Other convenience features include wireless charging and captain chairs in the second row, which enhance the luxury feel.

The Carens’ 1.5-liter diesel engine, paired with the iMT gearbox, offers impressive mileage, especially for an MPV of this size. The combination of a smaller, more efficient engine and the intelligent gearbox keeps fuel consumption in check.

The iMT variant balances power with fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for families looking for a fuel-efficient MPV that can handle city and highway driving

The Kia Carens is priced competitively, offering a blend of premium features, modern tech, and comfort that makes it a solid value proposition in the MPV segment. The iMT variant specifically caters to drivers looking for a more relaxed yet engaging driving experience.

| Price Range | ₹12.65 lakh to ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom) | | Key Features | Wireless charging, sunroof, ventilated seats, iMT gearbox | | Recommended Variant | iMT Diesel for a balance of power, features, and fuel efficiency |

When compared to competitors like the Maruti Suzuki XL6, which is only available with a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic, the Carens offers more gearbox options and a wider array of features

Kia provides a solid network of service centers across India, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. The 2-year/75,000 km warranty is standard, with the option to extend for additional coverage.

The Kia Carens faces stiff competition from other MPVs in the Indian market, including the Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Mahindra Marazzo.

The Kia Carens iMT stands out due to its wide feature set, premium cabin, and efficient diesel engine, making it a more premium option than the XL6 while also offering better technology than the Marazzo

The 2023 Kia Carens iMT is a well-rounded MPV that combines the practicality of a manual gearbox with the convenience of an automatic. It delivers on fuel efficiency, features, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for families who value space, tech, and fuel savings. With a competitive price and a range of modern features, the Carens iMT is a great package in the Indian MPV market​(Kia Carens).