Kia Carens Facelift Remains Undergoing Testing
Kia has been making waves in the market with its Carens model, a premium multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) designed to attract families and tech enthusiasts. The company is currently working on a refreshed version of this car, known as the Carens facelift. As part of the development process, Kia seems to be testing both gasoline and electric versions of the facelifted Carens, which are expected to launch around the same time. Recent spy photos from South Korea have provided some insight into the car’s updated features, particularly its lighting elements.
Kia initially introduced the Carens after the successful launches of the Seltos and Sonet models. The Carens stands out as a tech-rich MPV, providing options for both six-seat and seven-seat configurations. The recent testing is taking place in both South Korea and India, with the spy shots revealing more about the vehicle’s design.
In the photos taken during testing, the Carens was heavily camouflaged, only allowing glimpses of its revised lighting features. Despite the disguise, it’s clear that Kia is maintaining the overall shape of the Carens while refining its front and rear design. Most of the structure will remain similar to the current model, which is known for its unique split headlight design. The facelift continues this trend but introduces some fresh elements. The new LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are at the top, shaped like an inverted “L” and seamlessly connect to the headlights positioned below.
The headlights themselves have a triangular design featuring a triple barrel reflector setup, with two reflectors dedicated to low beams and one for high beams. These reflectors appear to use LED technology, similar to what is seen in Kia’s global and premium EV5 crossover electric SUV.
Kia seems to be adding several features to the facelifted Carens. Notably, it will come with LED fog lights, which are surprisingly missing from the upcoming Next Gen Seltos model. Additionally, there appears to be a radar module at the front for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). The vehicle’s wheels will showcase a geometric design finished in dual tones. At the back, the tail lights will feature an edgy design that flows downward at the ends, reminiscent of the Mahindra XUV3XO.
Inside the Carens, we can anticipate a modern setup, likely borrowing elements from the Kia Syros. This means we may see a wide, 30-inch Infinity Display composed of two 12.3-inch screens for infotainment and instrumentation along with a separate 5-inch screen for climate controls. Other high-tech features could include a two-spoke double D-Cut steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system.
As for performance, the facelifted Carens is expected to retain the same three 1.5-liter internal combustion engines currently offered. These include a naturally aspirated petrol engine, a turbo petrol engine, and a turbo diesel engine. Depending on the engine option selected, Kia will provide various transmission choices, including a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), and a 6-speed automatic.
The launch of the refreshed Carens is anticipated in the upcoming months, generating excitement among potential buyers looking for a versatile family vehicle.
