The Kia Carens 2025, updated in January 2024 and streamlined in May 2025, is a spacious and practical MPV that blends SUV-like styling with family-oriented functionality. Targeted at large families, fleet operators, and urban commuters, it competes with the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Toyota Innova Crysta, and Hyundai Alcazar. Here’s an in-depth look at its price, specifications, features, and market positioning in India as of August 29, 2025.
Stylish Design and Spacious Cabin
The Kia Carens 2025 sports a bold, SUV-inspired design with a Digital Tiger Face grille, LED headlamps, Star Map LED DRLs, and Star Map LED connected tail lamps. Available in 8 colors (e.g., Aurora Black Pearl, Glacier White Pearl, Imperial Blue, Sparkling Silver), it measures 4540mm long, 1800mm wide, 1708mm tall, with a 2780mm wheelbase and 195mm ground clearance, ensuring easy navigation on Indian roads. Its kerb weight is around 1535 kg, balancing stability and efficiency.

The spacious cabin offers 6- or 7-seater configurations with flexible seating, including a sliding and reclining second row and a foldable third row for cargo flexibility (216 liters expandable to 645 liters). Features like semi-leatherette seats, rear sunshades, and three-row AC vents enhance comfort. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, paired with a semi-digital instrument cluster and ambient lighting for a premium feel.
Robust Performance and Efficiency
The Kia Carens 2025 is available with two engine options, both paired with a 6-speed manual transmission in its single Premium (O) variant:
- 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol: 115 PS, 144 Nm, ~15-16 kmpl (ARAI: 15.7 kmpl)
- 1.5L Diesel: 116 PS, 250 Nm, ~17-19 kmpl (ARAI: 21 kmpl)
A 1.5L turbo-petrol (160 PS, 253 Nm) is available in higher variants of the related Kia Carens Clavis, but not in the standard Carens’ streamlined lineup. The diesel engine is refined for cruising, while the petrol suits city driving, though it may feel underpowered when fully loaded. The suspension (MacPherson strut front, coupled torsion beam rear) ensures a smooth ride, with all-wheel disc brakes enhancing stopping power.
Advanced Features and Safety
The Carens 2025 is equipped with practical and modern features:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless connectivity
- Keyless entry, electrically adjustable ORVMs, and rear parking camera
- Manual AC with rear vents for all rows
- Tilt-adjustable steering and semi-digital cluster
Safety is a strong suit, with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill-start Assist (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as standard. However, it lacks a sunroof and cruise control, which are available in the premium Carens Clavis. The Carens scored 3 stars for adult protection and 5 stars for child protection in Global NCAP tests, though earlier models had structural concerns.
Pricing and Availability
The Kia Carens 2025 is priced between ₹11.41 lakh and ₹13.26 lakh (ex-showroom), with on-road prices in Delhi ranging from ₹13.21 lakh to ₹15.30 lakh (including RTO and insurance). The Premium (O) variant is available in two sub-variants: Petrol MT (₹11.41 lakh) and Diesel MT (₹13.26 lakh). It’s offered at Kia India dealerships, Amazon India, Flipkart, and Bajaj Finserv outlets, with booking fees starting at ₹25,000. Offers include no-cost EMI, ₹2,000-5,000 exchange bonuses, and cashback on select bank cards. Maintenance costs are low, averaging ₹19,271 over 5 years, with Kia’s 400+ service centers ensuring support. Wait times are 11-12 weeks for the Carens, though some dealers report up to 2 months for related models.
Comparison with Carens Clavis
The Kia Carens Clavis, launched in May 2025, is a premium variant priced from ₹11.50 lakh to ₹21.50 lakh, offering Level 2 ADAS, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and a 1.5L turbo-petrol engine (160 PS) alongside the standard engines. It recorded 7,602 unit sales in July 2025 and 21,000 bookings in four months, reflecting strong demand. The standard Carens, now limited to the Premium (O) trim, is more budget-friendly but lacks advanced features like ADAS or a sunroof, making it ideal for value-conscious buyers.
Final Thoughts
The Kia Carens 2025 is a practical, value-for-money MPV, excelling with its spacious cabin, robust safety features, and efficient engines. Competing with the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (₹9.12-13.03 lakh), Toyota Rumion (₹10.44-13.73 lakh), and Hyundai Alcazar (₹16.78-21.28 lakh), it offers a compelling mix of comfort and affordability. However, its single variant, lack of sunroof, and modest petrol performance may deter buyers seeking premium features or sporty dynamics. Ideal for large families and fleet operators, it remains a strong choice under ₹15 lakh.