Kia Carens CNG launched in India, available at Rs 77,900 premium over petrol variant

The Kia Carens is among the largest-selling MPVs in India.

Kia India has launched the Kia Carens CNG in the country. It is available for an additional of Rs 77,900 over the standard Premium (O) petrol variant, which is priced at Rs 10,99,159 (ex-showroom).

Surprisingly, the Carens CNG does not get a factory-fitted CNG kit option. What Kia is providing is a government-approved dealer install option (DIO) kit by Lovato. It comes with a warranty of 1,00,000km or three years.

For reference, the Carens has two engine options -- 1.5-litre Smartstream G1.5 petrol (113hp and 144Nm) and 1.5-litre CRDi VGT diesel (114hp and 250Nm). Both engines come mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. The standard Premium (O) diesel variant is available for Rs 12,77,387 (ex-showroom).

One of the largest-selling MPVs in India, the Carens has a three-row and seven-seat configuration. Its main rival in the Indian market is the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga.

The Carens runs on 15-inch or 16-inch steel wheels with full covers, depending on variant. Braking duties are handled by discs on all four wheels. Fuel tank capacity is 45 litres.

The cabin of the MPV has a two-tone black-and-beige finish with indigo accents, semi-leatherette upholstery, and an indigo metal paint dashboard. Second-row seats get a one-touch electric tumble function, 60:40 split with slide, recline and tumble adjustments, and a folding armrest with cupholders. The third row offers a 50:50 split and can be reclined or folded flat. Rear door sunshades, diffused AC vents for the second and third rows, and five USB Type-C charging ports enhance convenience.

For the infotainment, there is an 8.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth and voice recognition. There is a 12.5-inch instrument panel with a 4.2-inch colour TFT MID. Key convenience features include steering-mounted controls, follow-me-home headlamps and keyless entry with burglar alarm.

Safety equipment includes six airbags, electronic stability control, vehicle stability management, hill-assist control, downhill brake control, all-wheel disc brakes, ABS, ISOFIX mounts, and tyre pressure monitoring. The model also offers three-point seatbelts with reminder for all passengers, rear parking sensors, and emergency stop signal.