Kia Carens Facelift Test Mule On Test: Fresh Details Emerge

The South Korean automaker Kia India seems to be speeding up the development of the Carens facelift. Recently, a test mule of this upcoming MPV was spotted testing on our roads. The spy shots of this test mule give us a number of details about this soon-to-be-launched popular premium MPV. As per the reports, Kia is gearing to introduce the facelifted version of the Carens in a 2025 release. It will feature a ton of exterior as well as interior design updates.

Kia Carens Facelift: Exterior Design

The spy shots of the heavily camouflaged Kia Carens have come courtesy of Zigwheels. From the images, we can note that the upcoming iteration will feature subtle yet impactful design tweaks. Starting at the front, the facelifted Carens will come with a redesigned front fascia.

Most notably, it will get a set of new LED headlamps that sport a more angular design. Both of these headlights will be connected by an all-LED light bar that will also serve as the daytime running lights (DRL). This design looks very similar to the newly launched Seltos and Sonet facelifts.

Moving to the side profile, the Carens retains the exact dimensions. It will continue to feature the same sleek and sporty stance. It will now, however, get a set of brand-new dual-tone alloy wheels. As for the rear, the changes include new LED taillights connected by a full-width light bar. Most likely, it will also get a newly designed rear bumper as well.

Interior and Feature Upgrades

In terms of the interior of the forthcoming Kia Carens facelift, the MPV is expected to retain its layout. However, it could get some significant feature upgrades. The current 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system will continue to be offered. Along with it, the premium Bose audio system will also be retained.

Other features that could be seen on the new Carens facelift include ventilated seats, a sunroof, ambient lighting, and an air purifier. Notably, the spy shots reveal cameras on the outside rearview mirrors (ORVMs). These indicate that the facelifted Carens will likely include a 360-degree camera system.

Additionally, the Carens could also get a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) including features like blind-spot monitoring, emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Kia Carens Facelift: Powertrain Options

The facelifted Kia Carens is expected to continue with its current powertrain lineup, which includes a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 115 PS. It will also continue to get the more powerful 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine delivering 160 PS. Lastly, the 1.5-litre diesel engine that generates 116 PS will also be offered.

Transmission options will also remain the same as the current model. The company will be offering a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT). It will also be offering a 6-speed torque converter automatic and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic as well.

Upcoming Kia Carens EV

In addition to the buzz created by the Kia Carens facelift, reports have stated that the EV iteration of the Carens is also on its way. Kia reportedly is also working on an electric variant of the Carens which is expected to launch in the second half of 2025.

The Carens EV will likely share its battery and motor setup with the forthcoming Hyundai Creta EV. This means that it could get a 45 kWh battery pack which could offer a competitive range of around 400 km on a single charge.

Market Position and Pricing

The current Kia Carens is priced between Rs 10.51 lakh and Rs 19.66 lakh (ex-showroom). The facelifted version is expected to see a slight price increase due to the new features and updates.

Upon its launch, the Carens will continue to compete with other popular MPVs such as the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga and Toyota Rumion. It will also take on the Maruti XL6, Mahindra XUV700, and Hyundai Alcazar. It also serves as a more affordable alternative to premium models like the Toyota Innova Hycross and Maruti Invicto.

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