New Kia Carens Embraces SUV Styling

Kia has launched the all-new fourth generation of the Carens in India after a teaser and some official drawings. With stress on utility, the car is referred to as a "three-row recreational vehicle" with SUV stylistic influences. The Carens is a major change from its minivan predecessor in terms of style, with a strong design that follows Kia's newest design philosophy, "Opposites United."

With contemporary LED headlights, aluminum-style skid plates, and plastic wrapping all over the bodywork, Kia Carens appears like a true SUV except for the 16-inch wheels, which appear to be too tiny. The Crown Jewel Headlamps and the massive central intake motivated by the Soul provide the front end a distinct design, while the rear has elements of the Sportage.

For a car in this category, the dash is rather sophisticated, with a design that extends to the doors. The Kia Connect infotainment system, which is compatible with over-the-air upgrades, is housed in the center 10.25-inch touchscreen. An eight-speaker Bose Premium Sound System, atmospheric mood lighting with 64 hues, the SkyLight sunroof, Multi Drive Modes (Sport/Eco/Normal), and Kia's air purifier system for virus and bacterium prevention are all available as options.

There are three rows of seats with lots of internal room in terms of practicality. For easy entrances and exits, the second row has a One Touch Easy Electric Tumble, while characteristics like retractable seatback tables, sliding-type seat undertray, cooling cup holders, AC vents for all rows, five USB-C ports, rear-door sunshade curtains, and storage pockets for bottles and gadgets help a lot for big families.

The Hi-Secure Safety Package is included on all Kia Carens model levels, and it contains six airbags, disc brakes, and essential electronic systems including ECS, ABS, and Hill-Start Control. A normally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol, a turbocharged 1.4-liter petrol, or a 1.5-liter diesel engine with a six-speed manual, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, or a six-speed torque-converter automatic, all supplying power to the front axle, are available under the hood.

It is expected the Kia Carens would be on sale in India and other chosen regions beginning in the first quarter of 2022.