Kia Carens Clavis GTX Turbo DCT

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, right? You are not just looking for a set of wheels but a reliable partner for your family. There are so many things to think about: your budget, how safe the car is, the monthly maintenance costs, if it has all the latest features, and of course, the company's service network. It is a lot to juggle. But what if there was a car that ticked most of these boxes, offering a compelling blend of style, space, performance, and safety? That is exactly what we are going to explore today with the new Kia Carens Clavis GTX Turbo DCT.

Main Highlights of Kia Carens Clavis GTX Turbo DCT

Engine Specifications

The heart of the Kia Carens GTX Turbo DCT is its impressive 1.5-litre Smartstream T-GDi petrol engine. This turbocharged unit is known for its punchy performance and refined driving experience.

• Engine Type: Smartstream G1.5 T-GDi
• Maximum Power: 157.57bhp@5500rpm
• Maximum Torque: 253Nm@3500rpm
• Transmission: 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission)
• Fuel Type: Petrol

Design Overview

Exterior

The Kia Carens stands out with its modern and robust design. It strikes a fine balance between an SUV's muscularity and an MPV's practicality.

• Front: Features Kia's signature DRLs Star Map LED headlights and a distinctive tiger-nose grille evolution giving it a bold presence.
• Side: Clean lines, roof rails, and stylish alloy wheels contribute to its dynamic stance.
• Rear: Connects with Star Map LED tail lamps giving it a premium and wide look.

Interior

Step inside the Kia Carens and you are greeted by a premium and spacious cabin designed for comfort.

• Layout: Typically a 6 or 7-seater configuration offering flexible seating options.
• Material Quality: High-quality plastics and soft-touch materials at key points elevate the cabin feel.
• Comfort: Well-cushioned seats for all three rows ensure comfort even on long journeys.

Key Features

The Kia Carens Clavis GTX Turbo DCT is loaded with features to enhance convenience and luxury.

• Infotainment System: 10.25-inch touchscreen display with navigation.
• Connectivity: Kia Connect (connected car tech), Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
• Sunroof: Electric sunroof for an airy cabin feel.
• Camera: 360-degree camera for easy parking and maneuverability.
• Wireless Charging: Yes for compatible smartphones.
• Climate Control: Fully automatic climate control.
• Other notable features: Ventilated front seats, Bose Premium Sound System, Air Purifier, Ambient Mood Lighting, Rear door sunshades and Drive Modes.

What is the Ground Clearance of Kia Carens?

• The Kia Carens offers a ground clearance of approximately 195 mm making it capable of handling Indian road conditions with ease.

What is the Boot Space of Kia Carens?

• With all three rows up, the boot space is around 216 litres.
• Folding down the third row expands it significantly to approximately 645 litres offering ample luggage room.

What are the Dimensions of Kia Carens?

• Length: Approximately 4550 mm
• Width: Approximately 1800 mm
• Height: Approximately 1708 mm
• Wheelbase: Approximately 2780 mm

Powertrain Options

While we are focusing on the GTX Turbo DCT, the Kia Carens also comes with other engine and transmission choices to suit different needs:

• 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (Manual Transmission)
• 1.5L Turbo Petrol (iMT and 7DCT)
• 1.5L Diesel (iMT and 6AT)

Safety Features

Kia has made safety a priority in the Carens.

• Standard Safety: 6 airbags, Anti-lock Braking System ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution EBD, Electronic Stability Control ESC, Vehicle Stability Management VSM, Hill-start Assist Control HAC, all-wheel disc brakes and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System TPMS.
• Advanced Features: Higher variants like the GTX may also include features like a rear parking camera with dynamic guidelines, front parking sensors, and even some ADAS Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems functions in the latest iterations.

NCAP Rating Table

Note: The Global NCAP rating was based on older testing protocols.

Rivals of Kia Carens Clavis GTX Turbo DCT

The Kia Carens competes in a competitive segment. Its main rivals include:

• Maruti Suzuki XL6
• Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
• Toyota Rumion
• Mahindra Marazzo
• Some variants of compact SUVs like Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos (if considering 5-seater alternatives at a similar price point).

How is the Car? Pros & Cons

Pros Advantages

• Powerful and Refined Engine: The 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine with DCT offers excellent performance for both city and highway driving.
• Smooth DCT Transmission: The 7-speed DCT ensures seamless gear shifts and a comfortable driving experience.
• Spacious and Comfortable Cabin: Offers ample space for 6 or 7 passengers with comfortable seating across all rows.
• Feature-Loaded: Packed with advanced features making it a modern and convenient family car.
• Robust Safety Package: 6 airbags as standard across all variants is a significant plus.
• Premium Design: Stands out with its distinctive and appealing exterior and interior styling.
• Kia Service Network: Growing and reliable service network across India.

Cons Disadvantages

• Fuel Efficiency: The turbo petrol engine with DCT might not be the most fuel-efficient option, especially in city traffic.
• Third Row Space: While usable, the third row might feel a bit tight for taller adults on very long journeys.
• Price: The top-end GTX Turbo DCT variant can be on the pricier side.

No AWD option: Despite its SUV-like stance, it is a front-wheel-drive vehicle.

Conclusion

The Kia Carens Clavis GTX Turbo DCT truly stands out as a compelling choice for Indian car buyers looking for a versatile and modern family vehicle. It brilliantly blends the practicality of an MPV with the bold appeal of an SUV, all while offering a powerful turbocharged engine and a host of advanced features. If you are prioritizing performance, a comfortable and feature-rich cabin, and a strong safety package for your family, the Carens GTX Turbo DCT is definitely a car you should seriously consider. It offers a premium experience without breaking the bank on luxury car prices, making it a smart and trustworthy investment for your daily commutes and weekend getaways. Go test drive it to experience the difference yourself