Kia Carens: A recreational vehicle
South Korean automaker Kia is all set to launch its first multi purpose vehicles or people mover-Carens, in February. Derived from an amalgamation of the words-Car and Renaissance, Carens will go head to head against Maruti's 7 seater bestsellers Ertiga and XL6, but Kia believes it will open up a new lifestyle MPV segment of its own. Here is a closer look at what it offers.
The vehicle has a well proportioned stance thats sits between a low slung sedan and a high brow SUV. Die hard Kia fans will note the missing trademark tiger nose grille as Kia has gone for a more modern face with digital radiator grille, star map LED DRLs and crown jewel LED headlamps.
The Carens feels like an MPV that is trying to be an SUV.
With an overall length of 4550 mm and wheelbase of 2780 mm, Carens is one of the longest cars in its segment. It measures 1800 mm in width and 1708 mm in height.
True to its Korean DNA there is a smattering of chrome all around the car most noticeable in the rear bumper garnish. It also gets 16" dual tone crystal cut alloys.
The wrap around tail lamps are sharp and angular and are also LEDs.
A dead straight view from the rear makes it look narrower than what it is.
The cabin feels spacious, plush and well laid out. Centre console houses a 10.25" HD touchscreen that supports all of Kia's class leading connectivity options including navigation.
Centre console houses a 10.25" HD touchscreen that supports all of Kia's class leading connectivity options including navigation.
Large wheelbase translates into good second and third row space for passengers. Customers can choose between two options--6 and 7 seater. In the 7 seat option, 2nd row gets 60:40 split seats with sliding, reclining and tumble options.
Third row offers decent under thigh support and 50:50 split seats. There are ample storage options all around the cabin including in the third row which gets USB charging ports.
For easy access to third row, one touch easy electric tumble seat function.
Caren's interior has a nice dual tone shade to it, striking the right balance between an aesthetically pleasing and airy-feeling cabin.
The air conditioner vents are mounted on the roof which means it does not get a panoramic sunroof. AC controls are conveniently handy for second row passengers.
The second row passengers also get a tray and an AQI display screen.
The second row passengers also get a tray and an AQI display screen.
The boot offers 216 litres of space that can be expanded to 645 litres by flat folding the third row. Lowering the second row of seats, increases luggage space further to 1164 litres.
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