The South Korean automaker Kia is gearing up for the launch of the new Carens facelift MPV in India. This premium MPV has been long overdue for a revamp. Prior to this latest spotting, the model was spotted in South Korea. However, this is the first time a test mule of the Carens facelift has been spotted testing in India. Although only the rear end of this MPV was seen in the spy shots, it gives us an idea of what to expect from the upcoming Kia Carens facelift.
Kia Carens facelift test mule
The latest test mule of the Kia Carens facelift was recently spied in Delhi. The pictures of this MPV come courtesy of Rushlane. It can be noted that the test vehicle was fully wrapped in camouflage. From what we can observe, the new Carens facelift will be getting a significantly revamped rear end design.
Exterior design updates
One of the most noticeable changes of the Carens facelift is the new C-shaped tail lights. These lights have become a signature design element of modern Kia cars. The new tail lights look more modern and bold. These tail lights are expected to be connected by an LED light bar. Kia calls it the ‘Star Map’ LED tail light.
As stated, the latest spy shots only show the rear end design of the Carens facelift. However, we can expect that the company will also offer it with brand new front and rear bumpers as well. Both of these will be getting a significant redesign.
Most likely, they will be designed to align the new Carens with Kia’s contemporary design language seen in models like the Seltos and Sonet. In addition, other changes expected on the new Carens facelift are updated LED headlights and DRLs.
Possibly, the lower spec variants will come with a single-pod halogen setup similar to the Seltos’ lower trims. The front grille will also be refreshed to add to the modern appearance. Also, expect to see a new alloy wheel design.
Interior updates and features
Reportedly, the new Carens facelift will be coming with an updated dashboard layout. The main highlight will be the set of new connected 10.25-inch horizontal screens. Of these, one will be an infotainment screen and the other will be a digital instrument gauge cluster.
Another feature which is highly anticipated is the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite. At the moment, whether the company will be offering a first-in-segment Level 1 or Level 2 driver assistance system has not been revealed. Reports also state that it could come equipped with a panoramic sunroof as well.
2024 Kia Carens: Powertrain options
The facelifted Carens is expected to retain the current powertrain lineup. This means that it could still get the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. This motor makes 113 bhp and 144 Nm of torque and comes paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
It will most likely also retain the same 1.5-litre turbo petrol, which delivers 158 bhp and 253 Nm of torque. It comes available with either a 6-speed iMT or a 7-speed DCT.
Lastly, the current Carens also comes with a 1.5-litre diesel engine as well. It makes 113 bhp and 250 Nm of torque. It comes mated to a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, or a 6-speed torque converter.
Launch timeline and pricing
The upcoming 2024 Kia Carens is expected to launch around the festive season or early 2025. In terms of pricing, given the extensive updates, a slight price increase over the current range is expected. Currently, the Kia Carens is priced from Rs 10.52 lakh to Rs 19.67 lakh.
Once launched, the updated Carens will continue to compete with other MPVs like the Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Mahindra Marazzo. It will also take on popular rivals like the Maruti Ertiga, Toyota Rumion, and Toyota Innova Crysta.
The post Kia Carens MPV Facelift Spied In India: Fresh Details On Launch, Changes first appeared on Cartoq.
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