KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Segment-first dual-pane panoramic sunroof in Clavis.
- Level 2 ADAS offers semi-autonomous driving features.
- Dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation.
- 8-speaker Bose audio for premium sound experience.
- Flat-fold seats enhance cargo and passenger flexibility.
Kia Carens Clavis: Kia has introduced the Carens Clavis as a tech-forward, premium MPV tailored to Indian families wanting a combination of space, safety, and cabin versatility. As the most feature-loaded Carens yet, the Clavis stands shoulder to shoulder with stalwarts like the Maruti Ertiga, Toyota Rumion, and the premium Maruti XL6. Here's a detailed look at the Carens Clavis's best features, how they are spread across variants, and a direct comparison against its main rivals. Before moving further, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
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Dual-Pane Panoramic Sunroof
The Carens Clavis offers a segment-leading dual-pane panoramic sunroof on select turbo-petrol variants. The dual-pane Expands the sense of space and premium appeal for all three rows. One-touch operation for added convenience.
Variants Available
- Dual-pane sunroof is available only with top turbo-petrol DCT trims.(Starts at HTX Plus)
- Diesel: Single-pane sunroof; naturally aspirated petrol lacks this feature.
Rivals With Similar Feature
- Maruti XL6: No sunroof in any variant.
- Maruti Ertiga: No sunroof across the lineup.
- Toyota Rumion: Also does not offer a sunroof.
Level 2 ADAS
The Clavis raises the bar with Level 2 ADAS, providing semi-autonomous capabilities. Features adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Calibrated for Indian road conditions.
Variants Available: Only on top-end HTX Plus DCT automatic trims.
Rivals With Similar Feature
- Maruti XL6, Ertiga, Rumion: None offer ADAS of any level.
Dual 12.3-inch Panoramic Displays
A tech highlight is the sweeping panel made of two 12.3-inch panoramic digital screens that includes- one full-digital instrument cluster, the other for infotainment. The infotainment screen supports wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, intuitive navigation, and vehicle controls.
Variants Available
- From mid to top trims (starts from HTX variant).
- Entry-level models get a smaller 8 inch screen setup.
Rivals With Similar Feature
- Maruti XL6: Zeta and Alpha trims get 7-inch touchscreen, digital driver display on select variants.
- Ertiga and Rumion: Ertiga's ZXI+ and ZXI (O) get up to 7-inch infotainment screen while the Rumion's G and V comes equipped with the same.
8-Speaker Bose Premium Audio
The Bose premium audio system is custom-tuned for the Clavis's large, airy cabin. This 8 speaker-setup deliver crisp, high-quality sound throughout all rows.
Variants Available
- Limited to top HTX+ trim.
Rivals With Similar Feature
- Maruti XL6: 6-speaker Arkamys sound system.
- Ertiga and Rumion: Standard 4/6-speaker setups.
Ventilated Front Seats & Powered Driver's Seat
The Carens Clavis gets ventilated front seats and a four-way powered driver's seat add to daily comfort. The prensence of ventilated seats is vital for comfort in hot Indian weather. Also, the powered driver's seat allows effortless seat adjustment functionality to the driver.
Variants Available
- Offered only with the top HTX+ trim.
Rivals With Similar Feature
- Maruti XL6: Ventilated front seats in Alpha Plus variant only; no powered seat.
- Ertiga and Rumion: No ventilated seats or powered adjustment for the driver's seat.
Flexible & Spacious Cabin With Flat-Folding Seats
Clavis stands out for its flexibility and modular seating as it gets 6- or 7-seat layouts with one-touch electric tumble for second-row seats. Second and third rows fold completely flat, expanding boot space up to 645L. There are Multiple split-fold options for luggage and passenger versatility.
Variants Available
- Flat-folding seats and electric tumble is available in all trims.
Rivals With Similar Feature
- Maruti XL6: Six-seater only, captain seats, gets tumble-fold 2nd row, flat-fold 3rd row - for all variants.
- Ertiga/Rumion: Gets flat- fold seats third row seats and second row 60:40 split seats with one touch recline and slide function - from base variant itself.
Features Overview, Variant Split & Competitor Comparison
| Feature | Carens Clavis | Maruti XL6 | Maruti Ertiga | Toyota Rumion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panoramic Sunroof | Dual-pane (select variants) | Not available | Not available | Not available |
| ADAS (Level 2) | Yes (DCT only) | Not available | Not available | Not available |
| Dual 12.3" Display | Yes (mid to top trims) | 7" touchscreen, digital driver display (top only) | 7"/8" touchscreen (select trims) | 7"/8" touchscreen (select trims) |
| Bose Premium Audio | 8-speaker (top trims) | 6-speaker Arkamys (Alpha/Alpha+) | 4/6 speakers | 4/6 speakers |
| Ventilated Front Seats | Yes (mid/top trims) | Alpha Plus only | Not available | Not available |
| Folding Seats/Boot Flex | Flat fold (all trims) | Tumble/split fold, | 2nd row Tumble/split fold and 3rd row flat fold | 2nd row Tumble/split fold and 3rd row flat fold |
*Prices (ex-showroom): Carens Clavis from Rs. 11.50L, XL6 from Rs. 11.84L, Ertiga from Rs. 8.64L, Rumion from Rs. 11.64L.
Features Missing in the Carens Clavis
- Absence of wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- The top HTX Plus, touching 20 lakh (ex-sh) mark doesn't offer dual-zone climate control which indeed reduces the value for money of the car.
- Even the top-end variant of the Clavis doesn't get a full-size spare wheels. Instead, it gets a space-saver, affecting This seems to be cost-cutting measure by the maker.
- Even the range-topping HTX Plus misses out on the rear ventilated seats, which are available in the Kia Syros.
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Verdict
Kia Carens Clavis brings segment-pushing tech, comfort, and safety to Indias MPV space - especially at the top end. While rivals like the Maruti XL6 also step up on premium feel and practicality, the Clavis delivers a package that's tough to beat on features such as its panoramic sunroof, advanced dual displays, full ADAS, and a flexible, spacious cabin - making it the current benchmark for buyers who want a genuinely practical and modern MPV.
