Kia Carens Now Offered in a Single Premium (O) Variant in India
Kia India has officially streamlined its Carens lineup, discontinuing eight variants and retaining only the Premium (O) trim.
- This decision follows the unveiling of the Carens Clavis, which will coexist with the original Carens in the domestic market.
- Contrary to initial expectations of dual sales, the brand has phased out older trims like Premium, Gravity, Prestige, Prestige (O), Prestige Plus, Prestige Plus (O), Luxury Plus, and X-Line.
- Now, only the 7-seater Premium (O) version remains, available with both petrol and diesel powertrains across India.
Price & Engine Options for the Remaining Variant
The Carens Premium (O) is competitively priced and comes in three engine choices, each mated to different transmission options.
- The 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol is priced at Rs 11.41 lakh, offering a basic yet efficient option.
- The 1.5L turbo petrol variant, paired with an iMT gearbox, comes in at Rs 12.65 lakh.
- The 1.5L diesel variant, known for better torque and fuel economy, is priced at Rs 13.16 lakh.
- All prices are ex-showroom, offering decent value despite the feature cuts.
Key Features Offered in Carens Premium (O)
Despite being the base and only variant now, the Premium (O) trim includes several practical features.
- 2nd row One-Touch Electric Tumble eases access to the third row.
- Roof-mounted AC vents for the 2nd and 3rd rows enhance passenger comfort.
- Dual-tone semi-leatherette seats in Black & Indigo add a touch of style.
- Flexible seating with 60:40 split 2nd row and 50:50 split 3rd row offers full-flat folding for better luggage space.
- 5 USB Type-C ports, keyless entry with burglar alarm, and electric outside mirrors with LED turn signals are all standard.
- The infotainment is handled by an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support.
Safety & Exterior Color Choices
The Carens still maintains a strong focus on safety and basic utility, even in its lone surviving variant.
- Safety is covered with 6 airbags, ESC, VSM, BAS, HAC, DBC, all-wheel disc brakes, rear parking sensors, and Highline TPMS.
- ISOFIX child anchors add an extra layer of protection for families.
- It is offered in seven exterior shades, including Imperial Blue, Clear White, Gravity Grey, Intense Red, Pewter Olive, Sparkling Silver, and Aurora Black Pearl.
Cabin Design & Feature Omissions
While the design remains practical, the Premium (O) trim lacks many premium comforts from discontinued trims.
- The cabin uses a dual-tone Saturn Black and Cocoon Beige interior theme, paired with 16-inch steel wheels.
- However, LED headlamps, alloy wheels, automatic climate control, ambient lighting, ventilated seats, cruise control, and sunroof are all missing.
- The 6-seater configuration is also no longer available, limiting flexibility.
Carens Sales Journey and Future Outlook
The Carens was first launched in 2022 and quickly became a high-volume model for Kia India.
- In just three years, Kia sold over 2 lakh units, proving its popularity in the MPV segment.
- With the Carens Clavis now targeting family buyers, the older Carens Premium (O) could find its space in the commercial or fleet segment.
