Kia’s new three-row family car is ready to debut on 16th December 2021, followed by its launch in early 2022. The model could be a compact MPV to rival Maruti Suzuki Ertiga or an SUV to challenge Hyundai Alcazar. While its official name and details are yet to be revealed, the latest spy images reveal that it will be Kia Carens 6/7-seater MPV. The automaker recently trademarked the same nameplate in the country. Here’re key details of the upcoming new Kia MPV that we know so far.
– Talking about its interior, the new Kia Carens will be the first vehicle in its segment to offer 6 USB-C ports – two each in front, second and third row.
– The compact MPV will also be the first car in India to provide access to the third row seats via an electronic button.
– While the lower and mid-level variants of the new Kia MPV will have an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, the higher trims will come with larger 10.25-inch unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
– Just below the info unit, there are two rotary dials with chrome finish. The MPV will come with a digital instrument console that will be standard across the model lineup.
– The higher variant will be equipped with a leather-wrapped, flat-bottom steering featuring the signature logo and ‘Carens’ name.
– The new Kia Carens might also be offered with the Bose audio system, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting colour options, leather seat upholstery and automatic climate control. The mid-spec variants will come with the fabric seats.
– A single pane sunroof might be reserved for the top-end variants.
– The new Kia MPV will be built on the same platform that underpins the Seltos. Though, it will be longer and more spacious than its donor sibling.
– The higher trims will come with all LED lighting including LED headlamps, LED DRLs and LED taillamps. Some of its styling elements will be carried forward from the Seltos such as Kia’s ‘Tiger Nose’ grille. It will also feature pronounced bumper and wheel arches, sporty body cladding and alloy wheels. Read – Kia Seltos To Get A New Diesel iMT Variant In 2022
– The new Kia Carens MPV might share its engines and gearboxes with the Seltos SUV – i.e. 140bhp, 1.4L turbo petrol and 115bhp, 1.5L petrol. It can be had with either manual or automatic gearbox.
– While the lower variants of the new Kia compact MPV will be positioned against the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, the higher trims will take on Toyota Innova Crysta. It’s estimated to cost between Rs 15 lakh – Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom).
