Kia has introduced the revamped Carens for 2025, now adorned with the new suffix ‘Clavis’. This strategic move positions the Clavis above the Carens, which will still be sold in a lower trim. The Clavis boasts a modern design, enhanced features, and the addition of a manual gearbox for the turbo-petrol engine, raising the question: can the Clavis carry on the Carens legacy?
Kia Carens Clavis Exterior Design and Engineering – 8/10
Refreshed Looks and Larger 17-inch Alloys
The Clavis shares the same K2 platform with the Carens, maintaining familiar dimensions with slight adjustments attributed to sharper and more monolithic bumpers. This revision has resulted in a marginal increase in length, while the overall silhouette remains recognizable. The redesigned upright face enhances the vehicle’s presence, featuring a faux metal trim meant to resemble a bash plate, adding a rugged aesthetic. One of the most significant updates is the new LED headlamps, designed in a distinctive ice cube style, which stretch elegantly across the bonnet and bumper.
Along the sides, the Clavis now features larger 17-inch alloy wheels with a sharper dual-tone design, enhancing its proportions. Much like the front bash plate, there’s a faux metal panel along the doors, contributing to a rugged SUV-like appearance.
Subtle modifications grace the rear of the vehicle, including an integrated stop lamp into the spoiler and a new design for the taillamps, which now feature a thicker LED bar connecting both ends. Additional brushed metal accents add a touch of bling, while the Carens badge proudly displays the Clavis suffix. Overall, the design refresh has injected new life into the Clavis, especially with the introduction of an elegant ‘Ivory Silver Gloss’ paint option.
Kia Carens Clavis Interior Space and Comfort – 8/10
New Dashboard with More Features but Same Space as Before
Inside, the Clavis features a revamped dashboard with a fabric-like panel sandwiched between a beige and blue theme. Dominating the interior are dual 12.3-inch screens set on a single panel, giving it a fluid, seamless appearance.
Located lower on the center console, the HVAC system has undergone redesign, incorporating a touch-sensitive panel on top-spec trims. While it serves multiple media and communication functions, usability can be compromised due to reflections, making it sometimes counterintuitive to operate while driving. In contrast, lower trims with physical buttons are easier to navigate. Practicality is well considered, with two cup holders featuring cooling vents, a wireless charging pad, and ample storage beneath the front armrest.
The front seats retain ventilation features, with the driver’s seat offering power adjustability while the manual height adjust is available for lower trims. Top trims feature elegant beige leatherette upholstery, while lower variants sport a darker, more practical fabric.
The middle row can be configured in both 6- and 7-seat layouts. Although the wheelbase remains unchanged, it ensures ample leg and headroom, enhanced by sliding seats. New for this model is a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, which brightens the cabin without sacrificing headroom. The repositioned AC vents now sit above the windows, improving air distribution. Premium features in the top-spec model include foldable trays and an air purifier, along with functional sun blinds. The Boss mode allows rear passengers to move the front seat forward for added legroom, making ingress and egress exceptionally comfortable.
Access to the third row is facilitated by a one-touch tumble and fold feature on the left seat, while once inside, there’s sufficient space for two adults. The configuration of the middle row seats provides adaptability for comfort, and rear AC vents and USB ports cater to passenger needs.
With all three rows in place, the Carens Clavis offers a boot space of 216 liters, sufficient for at least four soft bags. For larger items, the third row can be folded flat to create more space, with a spare wheel located beneath the vehicle and additional storage for tools under the boot floor. The Carens Clavis excels in packaging and practicality, only improving with the recent feature enhancements.
Kia Carens Clavis Engines and Performance – 7/10
Multiple Powertrain Options Give Buyers a Variety to Choose From
The Carens Clavis offers a selection of three engines alongside six gearbox choices. The two petrol options consist of a turbocharged variant and a naturally aspirated version, in addition to one diesel engine. We experienced the turbo-petrol in both manual and DCT configurations, while the diesel automatic was also tested; the naturally aspirated engine is exclusive to lower trims with a manual gearbox. The 1.5-liter turbo-petrol, generating 160hp, is available with a 7-speed DCT, 6-speed iMT, or 6-speed manual gearbox.
The turbo-petrol engine impresses with its refinement and sufficient power at lower RPMs, though it lacks a thrilling driving experience as the power delivery remains progressive. Performance significantly picks up after 2000 RPM, with a well-defined acceleration up to 4200 RPM. Pushing the engine further tends to produce coarse sounds without substantial gains. It’s best utilized in the mid-range, and the manual gearbox enhances driver engagement with its smooth clutch and well-defined gates.
The 7-speed DCT excels at cruising speeds, although it can be hesitant in city driving when shifting between low gears. Drive modes are available in the DCT variant, with ‘Sport’ mode enhancing responsiveness. Drivers can also use paddleshifters or opt for manual tiptronic shifting, which, although less satisfying than paddles, offers versatility. Overall, the DCT performs seamlessly with a measured driving style, alleviating stress on the left foot.
The diesel engine, producing 116hp, remains a well-regarded choice with excellent highway cruising capabilities. While it may not be the quickest option or particularly responsive for speedy overtakes, it easily maintains high speeds without complaints. However, while navigating uphill with a full load, the diesel struggles due to its lower grunt. The front-wheel-drive configuration adds to its demands on steeper inclines.
While the diesel engine offers reliability, it does produce noticeable engine noise under acceleration, and the absence of drive modes limits performance customization. Nonetheless, it maintains an efficient fuel economy of approximately 15-16 km/l, making it a practical choice for high-mileage drivers.
Kia Carens Clavis Ride and Handling – 7/10
Smaller 16-inch Wheels on Diesel Offer Better Ride Than 17-inchers on Petrol
The suspension has been slightly retuned to accommodate the additional weight from the panoramic sunroof, ADAS features, and larger 17-inch wheels on the petrol variant. Despite this, the ride quality is commendable, providing a supple feel even over minor bumps. At higher speeds, the Clavis remains stable, though some body roll may affect cornering performance. The diesel variant, featuring smaller 16-inch wheels, benefits from a larger tire profile, enhancing ride comfort.
Kia Carens Clavis Features and Safety
Lots of New Additions Over the Regular Carens
The dual 12.3-inch screens utilize an advanced UX/UI similar to that of the Seltos, showcasing smooth operation and responsiveness. However, the absence of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is noticeable. Notably, lower-spec versions with the smaller 8-inch unit still receive wireless capabilities. The Clavis also features a 360-degree camera with excellent resolution and no lag. Additionally, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster can adapt themes based on drive modes. Safety features include Level 2 ADAS, which can be manually disengaged. The system, when activated, performs well with a generous buffer for erratic traffic conditions, incorporating useful features such as blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and rear cross traffic alert. The Clavis also introduces a new steering wheel design similar to that seen in the Syros, complete with tilt and telescopic adjustments.
Kia Carens Clavis Price and Verdict – 7/10
Multiple Variants and Overlap Might Confuse Buyers; Expect a Significant Bump Over the Carens
Kia has yet to disclose pricing for the Clavis, but with additional features, a price increase between Rs 50,000 and 1.2 lakh is anticipated, depending on the variant. The original Carens will continue to be available, albeit with just one trim and engine option, likely targeting fleet operators.
To summarize, the Clavis represents a significant update for the Carens, bringing essential features and modern touches while preserving its practicality and engine variety. It stands as a sensible offering, reinforcing desirability, with the main aspect left being competitive pricing. The top-tier turbo-petrol variant with DCT and full features is expected to approach Rs 21 lakh. Crucially, the pricing of mid-spec variants will be of interest to the broader market. Kia has adeptly managed the tough components; now they just need to ensure the numbers align with expectations.
