CARENS
About Kia Carens
The Kia Carens is a practical MPV that comes in at an affordable price point but doesn’t feel like a budget option. It’s well-built, high-quality and is a really comfortable drive.
The Carens is the brand’s largest MPV and was designed by an ex-Audi designer, which is why you may be wondering how it looks so good.
The Carens MPV has been through three different generations, each offering large improvements. Fourth-generation models were never sold in the UK because they were exclusively designed for the Indian market.
Its main rivals are the Ford Grand C-Max, Citroen Grand C4 Picasso and Renault Scenic, but the affordable but reliable finish that’s synonymous with Kia models might give the Carens an edge.
Another reason why the South Korean carmaker is famed for its reliability is because all models come with a seven-year warranty that's unrivalled. Between this and our free 90-day warranty, you're onto a winner.
What features does the Kia Carens have?
The Kia Carens is available in a few different trims depending on the amount of tech and added features you’re after.
The entry-level Kia Carens 1 offers standard features like Bluetooth connectivity, air-conditioning and daytime running lights. It’s a great introduction to the range.
The Kia Carens 2 gets larger 16-inch alloys, reversing sensors, rain-sensing wipers and automatic climate control.
You can get even bigger 17-inch alloys in the Kia Carens 3, plus sat-nav on a seven-inch touchscreen and reversing cameras.
The Kia Carens 4 model adds even more tech, with an upgraded instrument cluster and a panoramic sunroof, plus parallel park assistance.
Visit our used Kia Carens listings to see the full range of features available in each model.
What's the Kia Carens like to drive?
When it comes to engines, there are three options available – two diesels and one petrol.
The diesel units are based on the same turbocharged 1.7-litre diesel engine that produces either 112hp or 132hp.
Kia says these diesels should return 56.4mpg and 60.1mpg respectively. This would be the engine to go for if you tend to do longer drives with heavier luggage or more people, thanks to the diesel engine’s strong pulling power.
The petrol engine on offer is a 1.6-litre GDi unit that produces 131hp, which might be the best option for most people because it's really smooth and quiet compared to the diesels. It's effortless around town and will happily run day-to-day activities that an MPV would normally do.
The Carens is also available with the Kia Flex Steer system – a programme that adjusts the weight according to the driving mode you choose.
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Used KIA Carens Review
The Kia Carens has never managed to properly stake its claim in the competitive 7-seat MPV class. With previous generations often seen as being built to a budget, the spotlight has too often shone the Ford Grand C-MAX and Citroën Grand C4 Picasso. With its stylish good looks and improved on-board technology, the latest Carens is seeking to reclaim lost ground in its class. Could we be looking at a new king?