Bhavna Choudhary. Kia Motors has created a challenge for other vehicles in this segment by entering India with Seltos, after Seltos, Sonet and Carnival, now the company is going to launch its fourth product, Carriage, this car is going to be launched exclusively for the MPV segment. Although it appears to be a mixed version of MPV and SUV in looks, the Karens is the offering in the MPV segment, and this week we got a chance to drive the MPV. After driving almost 100 kms, we bring you the first drive review of the Cairns. In which we will tell how the Kia Carence with many first-in-class features can become a problem for other vehicles in the segment.
Kia Carens to offer longest wheelbase in the segment
First, let’s talk about the dimensions of the car, which measures 4540mm in length, 1800mm in width and 1708mm in height, which the company claims will be available with the largest wheelbase of 2780mm in the MPV segment. Which is similar to the Hyundai Alcázar, however, the Cairn is 40 mm longer, 10 mm wider and 33 mm longer than the Alcázar. Along with this, 16-inch crystal cut alloy wheels at the front with digital radiator grille (with silver décor), body-coloured front bumper, Kia signature tiger nose grille (with silver surround accent), black with diamond knurling pattern in the car. The rear bumper equipped with garnish adds a premium feel to the car’s looks. The rear gets an integrated rear spoiler with skid plates, wheel arches, door handles with chrome finishing, high-gloss black side covers, while the fog lamps also look quite sleek. There are no major creases on the body panels of the Carence, and the raised window line gives it a sporty look. Overall, the Carens is two steps ahead of other cars in terms of looks, and what we really like about it is the digital radiator grille at the front which is completely closed, which is offered in electric cars these days.
Many segment first features with a long list of features
The interior of the Kia Carens looks quite premium with the perfect fit and finish. A 10.25-inch HD touchscreen is available on its dash. In which Navigation, Kia Connect, Rear View Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, Multi Drive Mode, OTA Map and System Update etc. have been given, along with other features like adjustable head rest, wireless charger, cup holder, steering mounted audio control. , Headlamp Auto Light Control, Bluetooth, Smart Key with Push Start and Stop Button, Rear Door Shanshade, Cooling Cup Holder in Front Row, Bose Premium Sound System with Second Row Cooling Can Holder, 8 Speakers, Wide Glovebox, Side Passenger Cup Features like holder, smart peyote air purifier with virus and bacteria protection, auto cruise control add to the luxury feel of the car. The top spec of the Caraance gets second raw canopy seat with sliding, ventilated front seats, sunglasses holder, roof lamps in each row, under seat tray with rain sensing wipers, leather wrapped D cut telescopic steering wheel, chrome finishing on door handles, Next Gen Kia Connect also gets premium leatherette seat with baggy and tritone navy colours, 64 color ambient lights, sky light sunroof with multi drive mode.
How was the experience of driving a turbo engine
Now let’s talk about the engine option of the Cairns, then this car will be available for sale with 3 engine options. In which Smartstream G 1.4 liter turbo GDi engine, G 1.5 liter and 1.5 liter CRDi VGT diesel engine is available, with the option of 6 speed MT and DCT transmission on turbo petrol, 6MT on 1.5 liter petrol and 6MT / 6AT on diesel version. . We drive the 1.4-litre turbo petrol version of the Carence mated to a manual transmission that churns out 140PS of power and 242Nm of torque. Being a turbo with driving comfort, the engine does its job, and doesn’t lose out on power and pickup in any case, although the pickup in first gear is not as good as one might expect from a turbo version. Is.
What can be expected from the price and mileage
It is too early to say anything about the price of the Kia Carence, but after driving the car, we can definitely say that with a feature loaded, dynamic design and premium interiors, this car will be the highest priced in the segment. Which will be slotted somewhere between 15 lakhs to 20 lakhs.