Kia Carens Now Has Only This Variant in India!

Kia Carens Premium (O): The Indian automobile market is ever-evolving, and automakers frequently adapt to shifting customer preferences, regulatory requirements, and strategic goals. Kia India has recently taken a bold step with its MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) lineup, especially the Carens. In a significant product restructuring, Kia has discontinued eight variants of the Carens MPV, retaining only one trim — the Premium (O) — in a 7-seater configuration. This move comes shortly after the launch of the Kia Carens Clavis, an all-new MPV positioned to expand the brand’s offering.

In this article, we’ll explore the implications of this move, highlight the features of the surviving Premium (O) variant, examine pricing details, compare old and new offerings, and provide insights into what the future may hold for the Carens lineup.

Kia Carens: A Quick Overview

The Kia Carens was first launched in 2022 and immediately carved a niche for itself in the Indian MPV segment, blending the utility of a people mover with the style of an SUV. Within just three years, the Carens achieved over 2 lakh units sold, underscoring its popularity.

Initially, it was offered in multiple trims across both petrol and diesel variants, along with 6- and 7-seater configurations. It was aimed at families seeking spaciousness, comfort, and advanced features in a mid-size MPV format.

List of Discontinued Variants

Kia has now phased out the following trims:

• Premium
• Gravity
• Prestige
• Prestige (O)
• Prestige Plus
• Prestige Plus (O)
• Luxury Plus
• X-Line

With these gone, only Premium (O) remains available for purchase.

Why Kia Discontinued the Other Variants

The discontinuation of these variants is a strategic move, influenced by several factors:

• Simplification of Product Lineup: Reducing the number of variants helps streamline production and reduce complexity.
• Introduction of Carens Clavis: The Clavis now fills the space previously occupied by higher trims of the Carens.
• Changing Consumer Preferences: Buyers are increasingly gravitating toward compact SUVs or MPVs with high fuel efficiency and tech-oriented features.
• Commercial Market Strategy: With fewer trims and reduced premium features, the older Carens may now cater more to fleet and taxi operators.

Kia Carens Premium (O): Features and Specs

Despite being the only available trim, the Premium (O) still offers a decent set of features for family users and commercial buyers:

Key Highlights:

• 7-Seater Configuration Only
• 2nd Seat One Touch Electric Tumble
• Roof Flushed 2nd & 3rd Row Diffused AC Vents
• 60:40 Split Seats (2nd Row) with sliding, reclining & tumble
• 50:50 Split Seats (3rd Row) with reclining & full flat folding
• 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• 5 USB Type-C Ports
• Dual-Tone Semi Leatherette Black & Indigo Seats
• Keyless Entry with Burglar Alarm
• Electrically Adjustable ORVMs with LED Turn Indicators

Powertrain Options and Pricing

The Premium (O) is available in three engine configurations:

Interior and Exterior Design

The Carens Premium (O) features a practical and family-friendly layout:

• Interior Color: Dual-tone Saturn Black & Cocoon Beige
• Seat Upholstery: Semi-leatherette
• Wheels: 16-inch Steel Wheels (no alloys)
• Infotainment: 8-inch Display
• AC Vents: Roof-mounted for 2nd & 3rd rows

While it lacks luxury features like a sunroof or ventilated seats, it still delivers on practicality and comfort.

Safety Features

Kia continues its commitment to safety even in the base variant. The Premium (O) trim is equipped with:

• 6 Airbags
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• Brake Assist System (BAS)
• Hill Assist Control (HAC)
• Downhill Brake Control (DBC)
• All-Wheel Disc Brakes
• Rear Parking Sensors
• ABS with EBD
• Highline Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

Color Options Available

Buyers can choose from a total of seven exterior colors:

• Imperial Blue
• Clear White
• Gravity Grey
• Intense Red
• Pewter Olive
• Sparkling Silver
• Aurora Black Pearl

These options maintain a strong visual identity for the MPV, catering to both private and commercial tastes.

The Role of Kia Carens Clavis

The Kia Carens Clavis is an all-new MPV that has entered the market, likely to serve as a more premium, tech-oriented and family-focused model. With modern design elements, enhanced safety, and upgraded interiors, the Clavis fills the gap left by discontinued high-end Carens variants.

Kia’s Future Strategy: Commercial Market Focus?

The decision to retain only the base variant of the Carens while launching the Clavis suggests a strategic bifurcation:

• Carens Premium (O): Targeting the commercial market, especially fleet and taxi operators who need practical, budget-friendly MPVs.
• Carens Clavis: Geared toward private buyers, offering modern design, advanced features, and perhaps higher price points.

This dual approach allows Kia to retain market share across both B2C and B2B customer segments.

Comparison: Carens vs. Carens Clavis

Conclusion

Kia India’s decision to discontinue multiple Carens variants may seem drastic, but it’s a strategic realignment to cater to distinct market segments more effectively. The retained Premium (O) variant continues to deliver value, especially for fleet and budget-conscious buyers, while the introduction of the Carens Clavis opens up fresh possibilities for personal users looking for a modern MPV.

This calculated split positions Kia to remain competitive in both private and commercial spaces while optimizing its production and sales approach.