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The Kia Carens Clavis emerges as a noteworthy contender in the automotive market, skillfully blending the practicality of a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with the appealing aesthetics and features of a sport utility vehicle (SUV). Kia India's strategic emphasis on SUV models has demonstrably yielded positive outcomes, evidenced by robust sales figures that outperform industry trends. This success is further underscored by the introduction of the Carens Clavis, a model that reflects and adapts to evolving market demands. The redesigned three-row MPV boasts a more pronounced SUV-like appearance and is equipped with a suite of features tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern families. The strategic positioning of the Carens Clavis is also noteworthy. Rather than replacing the existing Carens model, it will coexist, targeting the premium segment of the market. Kia India plans to maintain the entry-level Carens trim, potentially introducing a CNG variant in the near future. The Carens Clavis, on the other hand, will offer a broader range of powertrain options and is anticipated to command a premium price point, estimated at approximately Rs 1.5 lakh above comparable Carens trims. Furthermore, Kia intends to launch an electric version of the Carens Clavis within a couple of months after the initial release, showcasing its commitment to electrification. Design-wise, the Carens Clavis incorporates evolutionary updates that enhance its visual appeal. The front fascia draws inspiration from the Syros model and elements from Kia's global electric vehicle portfolio. The grille is more upright, complemented by sleek daytime running lights (DRLs) that wrap around the triangular LED headlamp clusters. The front is flush, and the lower section features a new satin-finished skid plate. The 17-inch alloy wheels, designed with an EV-centric aesthetic, are a key highlight on the side. A strong shoulder line, roof rails, and contrast-colored plastic cladding further contribute to the vehicle's SUV-like stance. The rear design is also refreshed with a connected LED tail strip, a skid plate, and vertically positioned tail lamps. Inside, the Carens Clavis maintains a premium ambiance with several new features and aesthetic enhancements. It continues to offer both 6- and 7-seater configurations, with captain seats reserved for the top-tier trim levels. The dashboard features a new 26.6-inch, free-standing, dual-screen setup, larger than that found in the Seltos. The seat fabric is also new, and the driver's seat is electrically adjustable, although the height adjustment remains manual. The touch-operated AC panel is new, offering a convenient switch to music control at the touch of a button. The central well has been redesigned to provide ample storage space. Expect features such as a wireless charger, panoramic sunroof, Bose speakers, and front seat ventilation in the higher-end variants. Mechanically, the Carens Clavis retains the same wheelbase of 2,760 mm. The second-row seats are adequately large and supportive, offering sufficient legroom. Passengers can utilize the boss mode function to move the co-driver's seat forward. Additional amenities for second-row passengers include foldable tables, USB charging points, a cooled bottle holder, and privacy curtains. However, the Carens Clavis lacks multi-zone AC and rear seat ventilation, which would have been desirable additions. The third-row seating is somewhat cramped and best suited for shorter journeys. Nevertheless, it includes bottle holders, AC vents, and USB charging points. The boot space with all three rows in use is 216 liters, sufficient for two medium-sized bags. The Kia Carens Clavis offers three powertrain options. The 115 hp naturally-aspirated petrol engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The 116 hp diesel engine is available with a 6-speed manual and a torque converter automatic gearbox. The 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine provides the most versatility, generating 160 horsepower and offered with a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission), and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. During a test drive of the 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine with the dual-clutch gearbox, the driving experience was largely unchanged. The engine delivers good mid-range performance, making highway cruising effortless. The straight-off-the-line acceleration is decent, and the engine provides strong pull. The DCT allows the driver to take control using paddle shifters. However, flooring the pedal and holding a gear can result in engine noise, and overtaking in city traffic can be unpleasant due to cabin noise. For the most part, the gear shifts are smooth and seamless. The vehicle offers three drive modes that adjust the engine mapping, throttle, and steering response. However, the Carens Clavis lacks traction modes, which are available in the Seltos. Driving at triple-digit highway speeds is effortless. The view from the driver's seat is more commanding, with the high seating position allowing the driver to see the edges of the bonnet. The steering wheel, shared with the Syros, is a new unit that feels chunky and premium. The handling is generally neutral, and city maneuvers are light and predictable. There is noticeable body roll in corners, and the seats lack support during spirited driving. The Carens Clavis is equipped with all-disc brakes, providing confidence in braking performance. Level 2 ADAS (advanced driving assistance system) is also introduced with the Carens Clavis, enhancing the overall safety.
The Kia Carens Clavis's appeal lies in its multifaceted design and functionality, seamlessly bridging the gap between the practicality of an MPV and the aspirational aesthetics of an SUV. This blending of characteristics positions it as a versatile option for families seeking both space and style. Kia's strategy of focusing on the SUV segment has paid dividends, as evidenced by their strong sales growth, which has consistently outperformed industry trends. The Carens Clavis is a direct result of this strategy, reflecting a keen understanding of evolving consumer preferences and market demands. By redesigning the Carens to emulate the appearance of an SUV and incorporating features tailored for families, Kia has created a vehicle that resonates with a broad spectrum of buyers. The Carens Clavis doesn't simply replace the existing Carens model but rather expands the lineup, targeting the premium end of the market while retaining the entry-level Carens for budget-conscious consumers. This strategic approach allows Kia to cater to diverse customer segments and maximize its market reach. The anticipated introduction of a CNG variant for the entry-level Carens further enhances its appeal to those seeking fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly transportation options. The decision to launch an electric version of the Carens Clavis within a few months underscores Kia's commitment to electrification and its ambition to be a leader in the electric vehicle market. This move not only diversifies the Carens lineup but also aligns with the growing global trend towards electric mobility. The design of the Carens Clavis is a masterclass in evolutionary updates, building upon the existing Carens platform while incorporating elements from other Kia models, including the Syros and the company's global EV portfolio. The upright grille, sleek daytime running lights, and triangular LED headlamp clusters create a distinctive and modern front fascia. The satin-finished skid plate adds a touch of ruggedness, while the 17-inch alloy wheels contribute to the vehicle's overall aesthetic appeal. The strong shoulder line, roof rails, and contrast-colored plastic cladding further enhance its SUV-like stance, giving it a more commanding presence on the road. The interior of the Carens Clavis is equally impressive, offering a premium ambiance with a host of new features and aesthetic enhancements. The availability of both 6- and 7-seater configurations caters to different family sizes and needs, while the captain seats in the top-tier trim levels provide a luxurious and comfortable experience for passengers. The new 26.6-inch, free-standing, dual-screen setup is a significant upgrade, providing a seamless and intuitive interface for infotainment and vehicle controls. The redesigned central well offers ample storage space, while features such as the wireless charger, panoramic sunroof, Bose speakers, and front seat ventilation further enhance the overall driving and passenger experience.
While the Carens Clavis doesn't undergo any mechanical changes, retaining the same wheelbase as its predecessor, it still offers a comfortable and practical driving experience. The second-row seats are adequately large and supportive, providing ample legroom for passengers. The boss mode function allows passengers to move the co-driver's seat forward, creating even more space in the second row. Additional amenities such as foldable tables, USB charging points, a cooled bottle holder, and privacy curtains further enhance the comfort and convenience of second-row passengers. However, the absence of multi-zone AC and rear seat ventilation is a notable omission, particularly for those living in hotter climates. The third-row seating is admittedly cramped and best suited for shorter journeys, but it still provides essential features such as bottle holders, AC vents, and USB charging points. The boot space with all three rows in use is limited but still sufficient for carrying two medium-sized bags. The powertrain options offered with the Carens Clavis cater to a wide range of driving preferences and needs. The 115 hp naturally-aspirated petrol engine is a good choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable option, while the 116 hp diesel engine provides more torque and better fuel economy for those who do a lot of highway driving. The 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine is the most powerful option, offering a spirited driving experience and a choice of manual, iMT, and dual-clutch automatic transmissions. During the test drive, the 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine with the dual-clutch gearbox delivered good mid-range performance and effortless highway cruising. The DCT allowed the driver to take control using paddle shifters, but the engine could become noisy when pushed hard. The availability of three drive modes allows drivers to tailor the engine mapping, throttle, and steering response to their preferences, although the absence of traction modes is a notable omission. The Carens Clavis offers a commanding driving position with good visibility and a premium-feeling steering wheel. The handling is generally neutral, and city maneuvers are light and predictable, although there is noticeable body roll in corners. The all-disc brakes provide confident stopping power, and the inclusion of Level 2 ADAS (advanced driving assistance system) enhances the overall safety of the vehicle. In conclusion, the Kia Carens Clavis is a well-rounded and versatile vehicle that offers a compelling blend of practicality, style, and features. It is a strong contender in the MPV segment and is sure to appeal to families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and stylish vehicle.
The Kia Carens Clavis represents a strategic evolution in Kia's product lineup, showcasing a commitment to adapting to market demands while maintaining a focus on quality and innovation. By seamlessly blending the practicality of an MPV with the appealing aesthetics and features of an SUV, Kia has created a vehicle that caters to a broad range of consumers. The Carens Clavis is not merely a cosmetic upgrade but rather a thoughtfully designed and engineered vehicle that offers a compelling combination of space, comfort, performance, and safety. Kia's decision to offer the Carens Clavis alongside the existing Carens model is a smart one, allowing the company to cater to different customer segments and maximize its market reach. The anticipated introduction of a CNG variant for the entry-level Carens further enhances its appeal to budget-conscious consumers, while the launch of an electric version of the Carens Clavis underscores Kia's commitment to electrification and its ambition to be a leader in the EV market. The design of the Carens Clavis is a testament to Kia's attention to detail and its ability to create vehicles that are both stylish and functional. The evolutionary updates to the front fascia, including the upright grille, sleek daytime running lights, and triangular LED headlamp clusters, create a distinctive and modern appearance. The satin-finished skid plate adds a touch of ruggedness, while the 17-inch alloy wheels contribute to the vehicle's overall aesthetic appeal. The interior of the Carens Clavis is equally impressive, offering a premium ambiance with a host of new features and aesthetic enhancements. The availability of both 6- and 7-seater configurations caters to different family sizes and needs, while the captain seats in the top-tier trim levels provide a luxurious and comfortable experience for passengers. The new 26.6-inch, free-standing, dual-screen setup is a significant upgrade, providing a seamless and intuitive interface for infotainment and vehicle controls. The redesigned central well offers ample storage space, while features such as the wireless charger, panoramic sunroof, Bose speakers, and front seat ventilation further enhance the overall driving and passenger experience. While the Carens Clavis retains the same wheelbase as its predecessor, it still offers a comfortable and practical driving experience. The second-row seats are adequately large and supportive, providing ample legroom for passengers. The boss mode function allows passengers to move the co-driver's seat forward, creating even more space in the second row. Additional amenities such as foldable tables, USB charging points, a cooled bottle holder, and privacy curtains further enhance the comfort and convenience of second-row passengers.
The Carens Clavis’s powertrain options offer a range of choices to suit different driving styles and needs. The 115 hp naturally-aspirated petrol engine is a good choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable option, while the 116 hp diesel engine provides more torque and better fuel economy for those who do a lot of highway driving. The 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine is the most powerful option, offering a spirited driving experience and a choice of manual, iMT, and dual-clutch automatic transmissions. The test drive of the 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine with the dual-clutch gearbox revealed good mid-range performance and effortless highway cruising. The DCT allowed the driver to take control using paddle shifters, but the engine could become noisy when pushed hard. The availability of three drive modes allows drivers to tailor the engine mapping, throttle, and steering response to their preferences. The Carens Clavis offers a commanding driving position with good visibility and a premium-feeling steering wheel. The handling is generally neutral, and city maneuvers are light and predictable, although there is noticeable body roll in corners. The all-disc brakes provide confident stopping power, and the inclusion of Level 2 ADAS (advanced driving assistance system) enhances the overall safety of the vehicle. Ultimately, the Kia Carens Clavis is a well-rounded and versatile vehicle that offers a compelling blend of practicality, style, and features. It represents a significant step forward in Kia's product lineup and is sure to appeal to families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and stylish vehicle. The Carens Clavis stands out as a versatile and well-designed option in the automotive market. It successfully blends the practicality of an MPV with the appealing aesthetics and features of an SUV. Its strategic positioning, design enhancements, premium interior, diverse powertrain options, and focus on safety make it a compelling choice for families seeking a spacious, comfortable, and stylish vehicle. Kia's commitment to innovation and adaptation to market demands is evident in the Carens Clavis, solidifying its position as a leader in the automotive industry.
Source: Kia Carens Clavis Review: Blending Practicality Of MPV With Feel Of SUV