The 2025 Kia Carens, which received a refresh in January 2024 and was further optimized in May 2025, continues to position itself as a versatile MPV with SUV-inspired styling. Designed for families, city travelers, and even fleet buyers, it delivers a mix of practicality and modern design. Competing with the likes of Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Innova Crysta, and Hyundai Alcazar, the Carens aims to strike a balance between affordability and features. Below, we break down its latest updates on design, pricing, features, and overall market appeal in India as of August 29, 2025.
Stylish Exterior and Roomy Interiors
The Kia Carens 2025 carries a bold and sporty profile thanks to its Digital Tiger Face grille, sharp LED headlamps, signature Star Map LED DRLs, and connected LED tail lamps. Buyers can choose from 8 paint options, including Aurora Black Pearl, Imperial Blue, Glacier White Pearl, and Sparkling Silver. The MPV stands 4540mm long, 1800mm wide, and 1708mm tall, supported by a 2780mm wheelbase and 195mm ground clearance—dimensions that make it both road-friendly and comfortable for Indian conditions. With a kerb weight of about 1535 kg, it achieves a balance between stability and fuel efficiency.
Kia Carens 2025 Cabin and Comfort
Kia offers the Carens in both 6- and 7-seater layouts, with flexible seat arrangements. The second row slides and reclines, while the third row folds flat to increase boot space from 216 liters up to 645 liters. Passenger comfort is ensured with semi-leatherette upholstery, rear sunshades, and dedicated AC vents across all rows. The dashboard is anchored by a 10.25-inch infotainment unit with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, combined with a semi-digital instrument panel and soft ambient lighting that elevate the premium feel inside.
Engine Options and Drive Quality
The Carens 2025 offers two engine choices under its sole Premium (O) variant, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox:
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1.5L Petrol (NA): 115 PS, 144 Nm, fuel efficiency around 15–16 kmpl (ARAI: 15.7 kmpl)
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1.5L Diesel: 116 PS, 250 Nm, mileage of 17–19 kmpl (ARAI: 21 kmpl)
While the 1.5L turbo-petrol with 160 PS is reserved for the Carens Clavis, the standard Carens sticks with efficient options. The diesel shines for long drives and highway runs, while the petrol feels suitable for everyday urban commutes, though not as strong when fully loaded. Suspension duties are handled by MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, ensuring ride comfort, while all-wheel disc brakes provide confident stopping power.
Tech Features and Safety Equipment
The 2025 Carens is loaded with practical features for its price bracket:
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8-inch infotainment with wireless connectivity
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Keyless entry and electrically adjustable ORVMs
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Reverse parking camera
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Manual AC with rear vents for every row
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Semi-digital cluster with tilt-adjust steering
On the safety front, Kia equips the MPV with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, VSM, HAC, DBC, and TPMS as standard. The absence of a sunroof and cruise control may disappoint some buyers, but these are offered in the Clavis. Global NCAP awarded it 3 stars for adult safety and 5 stars for child occupant protection, marking improvements from earlier models.
Pricing and Purchase Options
Kia Carens 2025 is priced between ₹11.41 lakh and ₹13.26 lakh (ex-showroom), while on-road prices in Delhi fall in the ₹13.21–15.30 lakh range. Buyers can pick from two trims under the Premium (O) tag—Petrol MT (₹11.41 lakh) and Diesel MT (₹13.26 lakh). The MPV is available via Kia dealerships, Amazon India, Flipkart, and Bajaj Finserv, with bookings starting at ₹25,000. Attractive offers include no-cost EMI, cashback deals on select bank cards, and exchange bonuses of up to ₹5,000. With a 5-year average maintenance cost of only ₹19,271 and over 400 Kia service centers nationwide, ownership is relatively hassle-free. Current waiting periods are around 11–12 weeks, though some regions report quicker deliveries.
Standard Carens vs Carens Clavis
The Carens Clavis, introduced in May 2025, caters to premium buyers with extras like Level 2 ADAS, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and the 1.5L turbo-petrol engine. Priced from ₹11.50 lakh to ₹21.50 lakh, it has gained popularity with over 21,000 bookings in four months and sales of 7,602 units in July 2025. In contrast, the standard Carens is simplified to just the Premium (O) trim, offering value for those who prioritize affordability and practicality over luxury tech features.
Final Verdict
The Kia Carens 2025 remains a strong contender in India’s MPV space, thanks to its spacious interior, competitive pricing, and comprehensive safety kit. It rivals models like the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (₹9.12–13.03 lakh), Toyota Rumion (₹10.44–13.73 lakh), and Hyundai Alcazar (₹16.78–21.28 lakh). While the absence of a sunroof, cruise control, and limited engine choices may not appeal to enthusiasts, the Carens makes up for it with comfort, reliability, and affordability. For big families and budget-conscious buyers looking under ₹15 lakh, it continues to be one of Kia’s most practical offerings.
Hi, my name is Hussain, the author behind Nirmalahss. I’ve always been passionate about exploring the latest in technology and automobiles, and this platform is my way of sharing that passion with others. Over the years, I’ve followed new gadgets, software trends, and the ever-changing auto industry closely, which has helped me develop a strong understanding of what truly matters to everyday users.