Kia Carens Clavis MPV 'transforms' into SUV priced from 330 million, is Xpander still 'unique'?

The higher-end versions are priced between Rs 12.50 lakh and Rs 21.50 lakh. Kia has started accepting bookings immediately with a deposit of just Rs 25,000.

The Carens Clavis will be sold alongside the standard Carens, positioned as a more premium version in terms of design and technology.

Bold SUV exterior with accents

The Carens Clavis is still based on the K2 platform but has been comprehensively upgraded in design, especially the exterior, with a strong SUV character. The inverted L-shaped LED daytime running lights are connected by a long strip of lights, combined with three-spoke headlights inspired by the Kia EV5 model. The front bumper is supplemented with fake metal cladding to create a sturdy, off-road look.

The body retains the familiar Carens proportions but enhances the SUV character thanks to plastic cladding running along the doors and wheel arches. The car is equipped with a new design of 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome-plated door handles. The rear of the car has sharp LED taillights connected by a new light bar, a spoiler with integrated brake lights and a redesigned rear bumper with sporty metal details.

Inside, the cabin has a modern blue-beige color scheme, along with a 12.3-inch dual-screen cluster for entertainment and information. The car has the option of a 6- or 7-seat configuration, an electric driver's seat, and front seats with cooling function.

The list of notable amenities includes wireless charging, an 8-speaker Bose sound system, a panoramic sunroof, air filtration, multiple rear USB ports, one-touch seat folding, Boss mode for the passenger seat, and Eco, Normal, and Sport driving modes.

The most “valuable” upgrade is the ADAS level 2 advanced driver assistance system, which the standard Carens does not have. The car is also equipped with a 360-degree camera, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Standard safety features include six airbags, ABS, hill-start assist, TPMS, four-wheel disc brakes.

In terms of engines, the Carens Clavis has three options: 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol (115 horsepower), 1.5L turbocharged petrol (160 horsepower - removed from the standard Carens), and 1.5L diesel (116 horsepower). In addition to the manual transmission, the car also has iMT, DCT, and AT options, providing flexibility.

With a strong design change towards SUV, a series of new technologies and superior safety equipment, Kia Carens Clavis is expected to become a formidable competitor in the family car segment in the Asian market, directly competing and possibly "putting Mitsubishi Xpander in a difficult position" as the original title stated.

Competitive prices and these valuable upgrades will certainly make the MPV race more attractive than ever.