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The automotive landscape in India is perpetually evolving, with manufacturers constantly striving to offer vehicles that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers. Kia India, a prominent player in the Indian market, has consistently impressed with its innovative designs, feature-rich offerings, and commitment to customer satisfaction. The upcoming launch of the Kia Carens Clavis is poised to further solidify Kia's position as a leader in the MPV segment. The Carens Clavis is not merely a facelift or a minor update; it represents a significant leap forward, promising a more premium and refined driving experience compared to the standard Kia Carens. This article delves into the variant-wise features of the new Kia Carens Clavis, providing a comprehensive overview of what each trim level has to offer, empowering potential buyers to make informed decisions based on their specific requirements and budget. Set to launch on May 23, 2025, the Carens Clavis boasts a heavily updated exterior design, lending it a sharper and more modern aesthetic. The interior has also undergone a substantial makeover, incorporating new materials, improved ergonomics, and a host of advanced features. Kia's commitment to safety is evident in the inclusion of additional safety equipment across the range. The Carens Clavis will be available in seven distinct variants: HTE, HTE(O), HTK, HTK+, HTX, and HTX+, catering to a wide spectrum of buyers. A palette of eight appealing exterior colours is available, including Ivory Silver Gloss, Pewter Olive, Imperial Blue, Glacier White Pearl, Gravity Grey, Sparkling Silver, Aurora Black Pearl, and Clear White, allowing customers to personalize their vehicle to their liking. Bookings for the MPV are already underway, allowing eager customers to secure their purchase ahead of the official launch date. Interested buyers can book the Carens Clavis online or by visiting their nearest Kia dealership, streamlining the purchasing process and ensuring accessibility. The introduction of the Carens Clavis is a strategic move by Kia India to capture a larger share of the MPV market by offering a more upscale and feature-packed alternative to the existing Carens model. The Clavis aims to attract discerning buyers who seek a blend of practicality, style, and advanced technology in their family vehicle.
The Kia Carens Clavis HTE serves as the entry-level variant, designed to provide a value-oriented option without compromising on essential features. It is available with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine mated to a manual gearbox, as well as a 1.5-litre turbo diesel engine also paired with a manual transmission. This powertrain configuration caters to budget-conscious buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency and affordability. Exterior features of the HTE variant include front and rear skid plates, which enhance the vehicle's rugged appeal and provide added protection. A rear spoiler with an integrated stop lamp adds a sporty touch while improving visibility. The diesel version of the HTE comes equipped with 16-inch steel wheels adorned with covers, while the petrol version sports 15-inch gloss black alloy wheels, adding a touch of sophistication. Inside the cabin, the HTE features a black-beige dual-tone interior scheme, creating a sense of spaciousness and airiness. The seats are upholstered in black-navy blue semi-leatherette material, providing a comfortable and durable seating experience. The dashboard is finished in an indigo colour with black metal trim, adding a touch of refinement. The HTE variant offers a one-touch electric tumble function for the second-row seats, making it easier to access the third row. The second-row seats also feature a 60:40 split configuration with sliding, reclining, and tumble functions, providing flexibility for cargo and passenger arrangements. A seat back folding armrest is included for the 7-seater variant, enhancing comfort on long journeys. The third-row seats offer a 50:50 split configuration with reclining and full flat folding capabilities, maximizing cargo space when needed. Additional convenience features in the HTE include a manually height-adjustable driver’s seat, powered windows all around, a sunglass holder, rear sunshades, follow-me-home headlights, electric power steering with tilt adjustment, a 4.2-inch colour MID (Multi-Information Display), a 12v front power outlet, and five USB Type-C ports. Kia has prioritized safety in the HTE variant, equipping it with keyless entry with a burglar alarm, second and third-row AC vents, rear occupant alert, six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill Assist Control (HAC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), ABS with EBD, brake assist, and disc brakes on all four wheels. These safety features provide peace of mind for occupants and contribute to a safer driving experience.
Stepping up from the base HTE variant, the HTE(O) adds a selection of desirable features that enhance both convenience and aesthetics. This variant is available with a 1.5-litre NA petrol engine with MT, a 1.5-litre diesel MT, and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol with MT gearbox, offering a broader range of powertrain options to suit different driving preferences. On the exterior, the HTE(O) distinguishes itself with a shark-fin antenna, replacing the conventional antenna. It also features electrically adjustable ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) with built-in LED indicators, providing enhanced visibility and convenience. Automatic headlight control is another addition, automatically adjusting the headlights based on ambient lighting conditions. Inside, the HTE(O) gains steering-mounted audio controls, allowing drivers to easily manage audio functions without taking their hands off the wheel. A significant upgrade is the inclusion of an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, providing seamless smartphone integration. The infotainment system also features a 4-speaker sound system with two tweeters, delivering improved audio quality. A rearview camera with dynamic guidelines is added, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer. Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition allows for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Moving up to the HTK variant, the Carens Clavis receives further enhancements in terms of both style and functionality. The HTK is available with the same engine and transmission options as the HTE(O), including the 1.5-litre NA petrol with MT, 1.5-litre diesel MT, and 1.5-litre turbo petrol with MT gearbox. Exterior enhancements include LED daytime running lights, which add a modern touch to the front fascia. Integrated roof rails are also added, providing additional cargo-carrying capacity. The interior of the HTK features a black-beige dual-tone scheme, similar to the HTE, but with subtle differences in materials and finishes. The seats are upholstered in a combination of black fabric and leatherette, providing a more premium feel. The dashboard retains the black finish but features black metal trim, adding a touch of sophistication. Convenience features in the HTK include automatic climate control, which maintains a consistent and comfortable cabin temperature. Seat back pockets are added to the front passenger seats, providing additional storage space. A one-touch auto up/down function is included for the driver's window, enhancing convenience at toll booths and drive-throughs.
The HTK Plus variant marks a significant step up in terms of features and technology, offering a more premium and sophisticated experience. This variant is available with a 1.5-litre diesel engine with both MT and AT options, as well as a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with MT and DCT gearbox options, providing a wide range of powertrain choices to suit different driving styles. Exterior enhancements include LED connected tail-lamps, which add a distinctive and modern look to the rear of the vehicle. A satin chrome finish is applied to the window line, adding a touch of elegance. Auto-folding ORVMs are included, providing added convenience and protection. A rear wiper, washer, and defogger are also added, improving visibility in inclement weather. Convenience features in the HTK Plus include a smart key with a motion sensor and remote engine start, allowing drivers to start the engine remotely and pre-cool or pre-heat the cabin. Push-button start/stop is also included, eliminating the need for a traditional key. Cruise control is added, making long journeys more comfortable and relaxed. Selectable drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—are available with the 7DCT and automatic variants, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences. Additionally, the HTK Plus offers an electronic parking brake with auto hold for the 7DCT and automatic models, providing added convenience and safety. The HTK Plus (O) variant builds upon the HTK Plus with further enhancements, adding even more features and luxury. This variant includes 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, which enhance the vehicle's visual appeal. A single-pane electric sunroof is added, allowing occupants to enjoy natural light and fresh air. LED cabin lights are included, creating a more inviting and comfortable interior ambiance. A wireless charger is added, allowing occupants to conveniently charge their smartphones without the need for cables.
Moving towards the top of the range, the HTX trim level offers a significant upgrade in terms of styling, features, and technology. This variant is available with a 1.5-litre MT engine and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with MT/iMT gearbox options, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The exterior of the HTX is distinguished by LED headlights, which provide improved illumination and a more modern look. Satin chrome finishes are applied to the front and rear skid plates, adding a touch of sophistication. Integrated turn signals are incorporated within the LED daytime running lights, further enhancing the vehicle's visual appeal. Inside the cabin, the HTX features a beige-navy blue dual-tone interior, creating a more luxurious and inviting ambiance. The seats are upholstered in leatherette material, providing a premium and comfortable seating experience. A leatherette-wrapped steering wheel is also included, adding a touch of elegance. The HTX offers 64-colour ambient lighting, allowing occupants to customize the interior lighting to their preferences. Sunroof options include a dual-pane panoramic sunroof for the 1.5 Turbo petrol variant and a single-pane electric sunroof for the 1.5 diesel variant, providing a variety of options for enjoying natural light and fresh air. Key convenience features in the HTX include the infotainment/temperature control swap switch, which allows drivers to quickly switch between controlling the infotainment system and the climate control. An auto-dimming IRVM (Interior Rear View Mirror) with Kia Connect controls is added, providing enhanced convenience and safety. Telescopic steering adjustment is included, allowing drivers to find the perfect driving position. Retractable seat back tables with cup and device holders are added for the rear passengers, enhancing convenience on long journeys. Voice-controlled auto up/down is added for all windows, further enhancing convenience. Smart key-enabled full window operation is also included, allowing drivers to control all the windows with the smart key. Additional amenities include cooled cupholders in the centre console, a cooled can holder for the second row, and LED personal lamps for rear passengers. The HTX also features a dual-camera dashcam with a mobile app, providing added security and convenience.
At the pinnacle of the Carens Clavis lineup, the HTX Plus variant represents the ultimate expression of luxury, technology, and performance. This variant is offered exclusively with a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with Turbo MT/iMT/DCT gearbox options, delivering exhilarating performance and a dynamic driving experience. A key distinguishing feature of the HTX Plus is the inclusion of second-row captain seats with sliding, reclining, and tumble functions, providing enhanced comfort and versatility for rear passengers. Rear door spot lamps that project the Kia logo add a touch of exclusivity and sophistication. Comfort features in the HTX Plus include ventilated front seats, which keep the driver and front passenger cool and comfortable in hot weather. A 4-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat is also included, allowing drivers to find the perfect seating position. A first-row passenger seat sliding lever is added, providing added convenience for adjusting the passenger seat. Rain-sensing wipers automatically activate the wipers when rain is detected, enhancing safety and convenience. The iMT and MT variants of the HTX Plus come equipped with a dual-camera dashcam with mobile app support, providing added security and peace of mind. The DCT variant adds paddle shifters, allowing drivers to manually shift gears for a more engaging driving experience. This variant also includes a Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) suite offering 20 advanced driver assistance functions, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, enhancing safety and convenience. An 8-speaker Bose sound system further enhances the in-cabin audio experience, providing immersive and high-quality sound reproduction. In conclusion, the Kia Carens Clavis offers a comprehensive range of features across its seven variants, catering to a wide spectrum of buyers. From the value-oriented HTE to the luxurious HTX Plus, each variant provides a unique blend of features, technology, and performance. The Carens Clavis is poised to make a significant impact in the Indian MPV market, offering a compelling alternative to existing models.
Source: New Kia Carens Clavis variant-wise features explained