MPV enthusiasts in India are eagerly waiting for Kia India’s new launch, the Carens Clavis, which is set for May 23, 2025. The Carens Clavis will be an upper-trim version of the Carens, featuring a newer, more technology-oriented, family-centric design. It will cater to the ‘urban families’ segment with an enhanced SUV look.
Design and Features
Primary design differences include a full-LED lighting system, 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and an SUV-esk bold upright posture. The interiors are enhanced with a smart cabin featuring twin 12.3-inch screens, an 8-speaker BOSE audio system, 360-degree cameras, wireless charging, powered front seats, and ventilated driving seats. This model also offers Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) featuring 20 Doppler autonomous driving capabilities, but these are only available on the top-end trim with turbo-petrol DCT.
Variants and Engine Options
Kia will offer Caren’s Clavis in seven variants: HTE, HTE(O), HTK, HTK+, HTK+(O), HTX, and HTX+. Buyers can choose between six and seven-seat configurations. The MPV will be available with three engine options:
- 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol
- 1.5-litre turbo-petrol
- 1.5-litre diesel
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, a 7-speed DCT, a 6-speed automatic, and a 6-speed iMT. The HTK+ variant only offers a diesel-automatic combo. The claimed fuel efficiency with each powertrain is 15.34 km to 19.54 km.
Premium Touches
The Carens Clavis shares features with Kia’s Syros SUV, such as the advanced steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, and the distinct Boss Mode, which lets a second-row passenger adjust the front left seat for spatial ease. The MPV will also come in eight colour options: Pewter Olive, Imperial Blue, and Aurora Black Pearl.
Pricing and Competition
Estimated pricing is between ₹10.99 lakh and ₹19.49 lakh (ex-showroom). Competing with the Maruti XL6, Maruti Ertiga, and Toyota Rumion, it also stands as a more premium counterpart to the standard Carens and serves as a value proposition against the Maruti Invicto and Toyota Innova.
Bookings and Market Outlook
On May 9, Caren’s Clavis began accepting bookings at a token amount of ₹25,000. Consumer interest in features, advanced safety, tech offerings, and a spacious family car is outstanding.
The anticipated impact of claims spawned by the design and features of Kia Carens Clavis will be felt in India’s MPV segment as the launch date of May 23, 2025, draws closer.
