Kia scales back Carens MPV variant lineup to a single trim
Kia India has drastically reduced the variant lineup of its popular MPV, the Carens, discontinuing the majority of its trims and keeping only the Premium (O) variant following the unveiling of its upgraded MPV, the Carens Clavis. The move slashes the Carens' offerings from nine variants to just one, priced at Rs 11.41 lakh (ex-showroom).The Carens previously offered a broad range of trims, including Premium, Prestige, Prestige Plus, Prestige (O), Gravity, Luxury Plus, and the top-spec X-Line, with prices spanning Rs 10.60 lakh (ex-showroom) to Rs 19.70 lakh (ex-showroom). Retaining only the one-above-base Premium (O) trim reflects Kia's intent to streamline the Carens as a value-focused option, creating a clear distinction from the feature-rich Carens Clavis, which introduces advanced features like Level 2 ADAS and a panoramic sunroof.advertisementThe Premium (O) trim is equipped with all three engine options: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol (115bhp), a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160bhp), and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel (116bhp), but is limited to a 6-speed manual transmission for the naturally aspirated petrol and diesel engines, while for the turbo-petrol, Kia is offering the iMT. Its feature set includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, keyless entry, five USB Type-C ports, and electrically adjustable ORVMs with LED turn signals. However, it lacks amenities like ventilated seats, alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a six-seat layout, which were available in higher trims.
Kia has confirmed that the Carens and Carens Clavis will coexist in the Indian market, with the Clavis offering seven variants and additional transmission options, including a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, and 7-speed DCT. The decision to limit the Carens to a single trim is likely aimed at cost-conscious buyers and targeting fleet and commercial buyers. The Carens Premium (O) remains available in seven colours.advertisementThis strategic realignment highlights Kia's efforts to differentiate its MPV portfolio in India's competitive market, while the Carens will challenge rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Rumion, the Carens Clavis will take on the Maruti Suzuki XL6. By focusing the Carens on affordability and positioning the Clavis as a premium MPV, Kia aims to capture both budget-conscious and upscale segments.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine
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