The Kia Carens has never been positioned as a performance-led MPV and during our testing, it became clear that Kia has tuned the powertrains with comfort, efficiency and load-carrying ability in mind.

Engine Options Tested

Driving Experience: Real World

On our city and highways test drives, we had the turbo-petrol DCT variant (now discontinued) evaluated by Siddharth Patankar and the diesel automatic (now available only in manual) was tested by Ameya Naik. Our test drive was in mixed conditions that included broken city roads and sustained highway cruising.

1.4L Turbo Petrol (now discontinued)

We found that the turbo-petrol, which was extensively tested by Siddharth, had a better mid-range and quicker responses. In our highway runs, it managed to complete 0-100 kmph in just over 10 seconds and was therefore the quickest Carens variant of the time. 
Siddharth Patankar notes,

“The turbo-petrol gave the Carens the urgency it otherwise lacks, but this is still a family car first. One enjoys the mid-range punch and not aggressive driving.” 

1.5L Petrol

The 1.5L petrol is tuned for smoothness and not urgency. In city driving, the throttle response is predictable and relaxed, so it is easy to drive in traffic. However, under full load, overtakes have to be planned, especially on highways.

1.5L Diesel 

The diesel engine is the most well-rounded. During our test drive, the diesel proved to have good low-end torque, which is especially useful with seven people on board. Highway cruising at 100-120 kmph feels effortless, and even with a full load, the Carens does not lose its composure.

According to Ameya Naik,

"The strength of the diesel is how relaxed it is on long distances." It's not fast, but never seems strained, even with passengers and luggage."

Important Note:

Moreover, do note that the current Carens is now only available with a 6-speed manual transmission.