Kia Carens Diesel iMT Set to Launch Soon: Exciting New Entry-Level 5-Seat Variant Expected"

Kia is preparing to launch the Carens featuring a diesel iMT powertrain and is simultaneously developing new base versions of the vehicle. Among these is a five-seat layout that will occupy a position below the Premium trim within the Carens' range.

It is probable that the Carens' enhancements will coincide with the vehicle's compliance with the upcoming BS6 Phase-II emission regulations.

Kia in the Process of Developing Carens Diesel iMT Powertrain

Presently, the Carens' diesel variant can only be had with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. Kia intends to introduce a new option in the form of an iMT or clutchless manual gearbox, which will occupy a position between the existing manual and automatic offerings.

The 1.5-litre diesel engine, which delivers 115 horsepower, will also undergo upgrades before the implementation of the Real Driving Emissions (RDE) standards, scheduled for April 1, 2023. Kia already offers the diesel iMT powertrain in its Seltos SUV.

Kia is planning to upgrade the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated base engine to meet E20 and RDE standards. The carmaker will also replace the 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine with a more robust 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit before the RDE regulations come into effect. Kia's sibling brand Hyundai has already introduced this engine in the Alcazar, and other Hyundai models, such as the new-generation Verna, will adopt it as well. It is only a matter of time before the same engine is incorporated into the Kia Carens and Seltos.

Kia Carens to Introduce Lower Variants Including 5-Seater Layout

Kia is planning to introduce new base variants featuring naturally aspirated petrol and diesel powertrains, in addition to new powertrain options, with the goal of making the MPV more affordable. The anticipated variants are expected to occupy a position below the Premium trim, which is presently the entry-level option in the Caren's lineup.

It is probable that Kia will include a five-seat layout in the base variant, which would distinguish the Carens as the sole MPV in its category to offer such an option.

The Carens is a direct competitor of Maruti Suzuki's XL6 and Ertiga MPVs. Presently, the starting price of the Carens is Rs. 10.19 lakh, which is lower than the XL6's Rs. 11.41 lakh but significantly higher than the Ertiga's Rs. 8.49 lakh, which is a more popular option. The introduction of entry-level variants could be an effort to entice Ertiga customers into Kia dealerships.

Regarding equipment, it is probable that the new base variants will lack certain features present in the Premium variant, such as leatherette seats and a folding armrest in the second row. However, Kia is unlikely to overlook safety equipment, as the automaker has been incorporating more standard safety features across its range in recent times.

Kia's Upcoming Launches in India: New Variants and Powertrains to Look Out For

Kia has revealed plans to invest Rs 2,000 crore to manufacture two locally produced EVs by 2025, with one of them likely to be an all-electric MPV that caters to the carmaker's continuing focus on the MPV segment. Another new offering in the works is a tough, compact SUV that will be situated between the Seltos and the Sonet, and will come equipped with an internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrain.

Additionally, Kia is preparing to introduce the KA4 MPV and the Seltos facelift in India in the near future.

All prices mentioned are exclusive of showroom costs in Delhi.