The entry-level 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine produces a modest 113 bhp at 6,300 rpm and 144 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. This engine is primarily geared towards sedate city driving, offering adequate power for navigating Gurugram's traffic. It's available with a 6-speed manual transmission, which is known for its smooth shifts and light clutch action, making it suitable for daily commutes. However, when the Carens is fully loaded with passengers and luggage, or when attempting quick overtakes on the highway, this engine can feel strained, requiring careful planning and downshifts. Fuel efficiency for this petrol variant is likely to be around 10-12 kmpl in urban conditions. 

The 1.5-litre diesel engine, also producing 113 bhp but with a stronger 250 Nm of torque available from 1,500 rpm, offers a more robust driving experience, particularly for highway journeys. The extra torque makes it more comfortable for carrying passengers and luggage without feeling as stressed. Transmission options for the diesel include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic, both of which complement the engine's characteristics well. Expect fuel efficiency in the range of 15-18 kmpl in mixed driving conditions for the diesel. 

For those seeking a more engaging driving experience, the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine is the pick of the bunch. With 158 bhp at 5,500 rpm and a healthy 253 Nm of torque from 1,500 rpm, it provides a noticeable boost in performance. Acceleration is quicker, and overtaking is more effortless, making it well-suited for both city driving and highway cruising.

 This engine is available with either a 6-speed iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission) or a 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). The DCT offers quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing the driving pleasure, while the iMT provides manual control without a clutch pedal. Fuel efficiency for the turbo-petrol is expected to be in the range of 12-15 kmpl.

Ride and Handling:

The suspension setup, featuring a MacPherson strut at the front and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear, effectively absorbs most of the bumps and undulations encountered on Indian roads. 

The ride is generally plush, making it a comfortable vehicle for navigating city streets and cruising on highways like the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway. However, some reviews suggest that at lower speeds, the ride can feel a tad firm, especially over sharp edges. Handling is adequate for an MPV, prioritizing stability over outright sportiness. Body roll is present but reasonably controlled during cornering. 

The steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking situations, but it lacks significant feedback, which might not appeal to drivers who prefer a more connected feel. High-speed stability on highways is generally good, allowing for relaxed cruising. Compared to some SUVs in its price range, the Carens offers a more comfortable ride, albeit with less engaging handling dynamics.

The dashboard layout is modern and well-organized, with a layered design that incorporates a mix of textures and materials. While some might find the extensive use of hard plastics typical for this segment, the overall feel is generally upmarket, especially in the higher trims. 

The dual-tone interior theme (available in black and beige, or black and indigo depending on the variant) helps to create a sense of spaciousness. The focal point of the dashboard is the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is responsive and easy to use.It supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing for seamless smartphone integration for navigation and entertainment while driving through Gurugram's traffic.

The audio system, especially the Bose premium setup in higher trims, delivers good sound quality. Adding to the modern feel is the digital instrument cluster, which provides clear and customizable information to the driver. Seating is a major highlight of the Carens. It's available in both 6-seater (with captain seats in the second row) and 7-seater configurations. 

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and higher trims offer ventilation. The second row offers ample legroom and headroom, and the seats recline and slide, allowing passengers to adjust their comfort levels.The one-touch electric tumble feature for the second-row seats (on the kerbside in 7-seater variants) makes accessing the third row relatively easy, even for adults. While the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, it's more usable than in some other MPVs in this segment, especially for shorter journeys within the city.

 Features like rear AC vents (roof-mounted) ensure that passengers in all three rows remain comfortable, even during peak summer. Practicality is well addressed with numerous storage spaces throughout the cabin, including a cooled glovebox, door pockets, and under-seat storage trays. Higher trims also offer features like a retractable seatback table with a cup holder and gadget mount, which can be useful for rear passengers on long trips. The boot space is decent at 216 litres with all three rows up, enough for some soft bags. Folding down the third row significantly expands the cargo capacity to 645 litres.

The Kia Carens sports a distinctive and somewhat unconventional exterior design that sets it apart in the MPV segment.The front is characterized by Kia's 'Digital Tiger Face' grille, which integrates the LED Daytime Running Lights, giving it a unique and modern appearance. The split headlamp setup, with the main headlamps positioned lower on the bumper, is another striking design element. 

The side profile emphasizes the Carens' length, highlighting its three-row configuration. The character lines are clean and contribute to a sense of dynamism. Alloy wheels, ranging from 16-inch to 17-inch depending on the variant, add to the overall aesthetic. The roofline is relatively flat to maximize interior headroom. The rear is arguably the most distinctive aspect of the Carens' design, featuring connected LED tail lamps that span the width of the tailgate. 

This design element gives the rear a modern and wide appearance. The sculpted bumper and the integrated spoiler add to the visual appeal. While the design might not appeal to everyone, it certainly makes the Carens stand out from more traditional MPV designs. Features like body-colored ORVMs with integrated turn indicators, chrome accents, and roof rails (depending on the variant) further enhance its premium aspirations.

The Kia Carens 2025 builds on its safety credentials with a standard 6-airbag setup, ABS with EBD, ESC, and ISOFIX mounts across all variants. Higher trims add a 360-degree camera and Level 1 ADAS, enhancing driver assistance. Its Global NCAP rating stands at 3 stars for adult protection and 5 stars for child safety (based on 2024 tests), reflecting improvements in restraint systems since earlier 0-star adult scores.

 While the bodyshell remains unstable under heavy loads, it’s a solid family option, though not the segment’s safest.

The Carens squares off against the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Rumion, and Maruti XL6. The Ertiga offers superior mileage, while the Rumion banks on Toyota’s reliability. The XL6 brings a premium edge with a softer ride. The Carens stands out with its tech-loaded cabin and modern design, but its lack of a hybrid option puts it at a slight disadvantage.

We see it as a strong contender for feature-focused buyers, though mileage seekers might lean elsewhere.

Kia Carens is a good option for XL families who are tired of scrolling through the Ertiga, XL6, and Triber brochures. It has a premium build, stylish exteriors, and offers a lot of engine and gearbox combinations for every need.