KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- The Kia Carens Clavis comes with a new design and updated features
- It offers a more mature look compared to the standard Carens
- Some things have improved, while others could have been better
KIA India is all set to launch its new MPV, the Carens Clavis, on 23rd May. The brand has already revealed every aspect of the vehicle, and the only puzzle left is the pricing. The Clavis is placed over the Carens in the brand's lineup and comes with a lot of improvements. However, it still has some areas that could've been improved to make it a perfect successor to the Carens. We've recently driven the new Clavis and in this article, we'll have a look at the good and the bad of the KIA Carens Clavis. Meanwhile, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community to never miss out on any latest news and automotive updates.
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The Good
More Mature & SUV-like Design
The KIA Carens Clavis has been developed based on customer feedback, resulting in a design that resembles an SUV. The restyled front profile features Kia's digital tiger face, a new horizontal headlamp assembly with ice cube-shaped LED headlights, and connected LED daytime running lights (DRLs). The hood has also been redesigned, featuring a straighter profile compared to the slightly tilted hood of the standard Carens.
While the side profile resembles that of the Carens, it boasts new 17-inch alloy wheels, fresh body cladding, and a satin chrome beltline. At the rear, the vehicle is equipped with a connected LED tail lamp, though the corner tail lamp design is similar to that of the Carens, the lighting elements differ. Additionally, the rear bumper has also received a redesign.
Improved Cabin Layout For A Premium Appeal
The Carens Clavis not only features exterior enhancements but also comes with an updated interior. The brand has introduced a completely redesigned dashboard, which now showcases a multi-tone finish combined with fabric materials. The AC vents have been redesigned and are now sleekly integrated into the dashboard. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with a new 12.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, as well as a 12.25-inch digital instrument console. These new screens add a premium feel, and the use of multi-tone color treatment is visually appealing. The interior door handles have also been updated.
New Features On The Inside
KIA is well-known for equipping its cars with an abundance of features, and the Clavis is no exception. It boasts a new 12.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.25-inch digital instrument console. Additionally, the Clavis features a spacious panoramic sunroof, a cooled cup holder for second-row passengers, a new double-D cut steering wheel, and enhanced safety with Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). These new features make the Clavis more premium and well-equipped compared to the Carens.
Multiple Engine & Transmission Options
The powertrain options for the new Carens Clavis remain unchanged from the previous Carens model. It continues to offer a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, generating 113 bhp and 143.8 Nm of peak torque. Additionally, there is a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 158 bhp and 260 Nm of peak torque. This engine is available with several transmission options, including a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), a 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT), and a new 6-speed manual transmission.
For those looking for fuel efficiency over long distances, the Carens Clavis also offers a 1.5-litre diesel engine. This engine produces 114 bhp and 250 Nm of peak torque, and it comes with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
Handles & Ride Well
The new KIA Carens Clavis offers easy handling, even though it is a long vehicle. The light steering response allows for easy maneuvering around corners. The brand has made some adjustments to the suspension, successfully providing a more comfortable ride. It delivers a smooth experience, effortlessly absorbing bumps, potholes, and road undulations. Additionally, the all-disc braking system enhances confidence during braking.
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The Bad
No Real Top-Spec Diesel AT Variant
Diesel buyers interested in the new Clavis may be disappointed with the variant lineup. The brand is offering only a single diesel automatic transmission (AT) option: the HTK+ variant. This is a mid-spec option that lacks many features found in the top-spec petrol variant. This is the only variant in the Clavis lineup that offers a diesel AT powertrain. This limitation removes the flexibility for buyers to choose either a top-spec or a lower-spec variant with an AT gearbox. Furthermore, the brand should have offered diesel AT options in additional variants as well.
Still No Wireless Connectivity In Top Trims
The new 12.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system comes with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is disappointing. Wireless connectivity is much more convenient in a car, allowing you to use your phone simply by connecting via Bluetooth. With wired connectivity, you'll need to carry a USB Type A cable to connect your phone. Additionally, Apple users who receive a Type-C cable with their phones will need to purchase a new cable just to keep their phone connected to the screen. On the other hand, the lower variants equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system do come with wireless connectivity.
No 6-Seater Variant In Lower Trims
I don't understand why KIA is not offering a 6-seater version in the lower trims. The 6-seater configuration is only available in the top-spec HTX+(O) variant. This restriction prevents customers from choosing the 6-seater option in other engine configurations and variants. As a result, customers are left with no choice but to purchase the 7-seater variant.
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Verdict
The Kia Carens Clavis is a well-rounded MPV for customers looking for a comfortable, feature-loaded, and premium offering on a budget. The brand has taken customer feedback into account and refined the original Carens to create the Clavis. With its more SUV-like design, it looks stylish and offers a strong road presence.
However, there are a few areas where Kia could have done better, particularly in terms of powertrain options and seating configurations. The 6-seater variant is available in just a single trim, which is a letdown. Similarly, the diesel automatic is offered in only one variant, which limits choices for buyers who prefer that combo. If you're looking to buy the top-spec version, you're restricted to just the turbo-petrol engine, there are no diesel or NA petrol options, which might be a dealbreaker for some potential buyers.
