Adib Noor
After 10 years, the Kia Carens is back, as the seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) makes its presence known with an all-new look in tune with Kia’s eye-catching design language and state-of-the-art features.
Just like its predecessor, the new Carens is designed with the modern family in mind, and space is not an issue with its three-row seater configuration. The Carens also features the longest wheelbase within its class accompanied with exceptional head room for both the driver and passengers alike, as well as easily accessible luggage space.
The interior focusses on delivering practicality by creating multiple storage spaces for various needs, and small but valuable and convenient features.
The Carens also comes with style. The interior is based on the design pillar, Joy for reason, aimed at creating happiness through a combination of warmthe and relaxing aesthetics.
The elements come together thanks to thoughtful styling details.
Extensive research was undertaken by Kia on the lifestyle and requirements of modern families. This is evident with the sophisticated interior, which features soothing colours and plenty of storage space with a layout designed to put occupants at ease.
The dashboard has a wide high-gloss black panel that accentuates the overall design, while the door trims look stylish and are uniquely constructed to offer ample storage space.
Inspired by airplane seats, three-seat rows in the vehicle combine comfort with aesthetics by elegantly matching materials, patterns and colours.
The car is also equipped with features geared towards making life easier. It has an eight-inch screen and charging ports in the front passenger and rear passenger areas.
For connectivity, its wireless Car Play is catered to both Android and Apple users. Other key features include rear door spot lamps as well as a bottle and gadget holder in the third row.
On the exterior, the KIA Carens opts for a bold stance, giving it an SUV-like road presence.
With edgy character lines and rich volume within its side profile, the Carens’ design results in a sporty yet sophisticated combination. The modern and high-tech design is aimed at millennials, with eye-catching characteristics and unique aesthetics.
The front of the vehicle shows a sporty and stable stance with high-tech details. The horizontal chrome garnish of the upper grille and the frame-type chrome garnish of the lower bumper create an impressive tiger face.
Meanwhile, the SUV-like side profile, high front end with a pushed back A-pillar, and a straight roofline with optimum ground clearance make it a capable recreational vehicle.
Three new colours have been introduced to the Kia Carens – mysterious Imperial Blue inspired by Azurite minerals; low saturation Moss Brown for a unique look; and Sparkling Silver with metal particles that gives the paint a sense of vitality.
“It is also highly fuel efficient, especially the eight-speed IVT 1.5 petrol option of the new Carens,” said Grand Motors Product Trainer Jimmy Khoo, noting that it also comes in a diesel engine.
The Carens offers a number of active safety features such as a high-secure safety package.
Included in the majority of the trims are six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), vehicle stability management (VSM), hill-assist control (HAC), downhill brake control (DBC), and all-wheel disc brakes.
While the ESC protects the car from the loss of traction, HAC and DBC allow drivers to drive uphill and downhill with confidence. Additionally, the VSM ensures occupant safety by offering stability to the car when the driver performs sudden braking and turns.
There are also front-parking sensors, including reverse camera, and rain-sensing wipers for the car, giving the driver utmost confidence and allowing them to fully focus on the road ahead.
