Kia has launched its Indian-built Carens seven-seater crossover SUV, starting from under R400k.
(Image: Kia)
Following the launch of the Tasman in April 2026, Kia’s local arm has introduced the Carens to its model lineup. Manufactured at Kia’s Anantapur plant in India, the Carens is pitched as a budget-friendly, three-row crossover SUV to take on rivals like the Hyundai Alcazar, Mitsubishi Xpander, and Suzuki XL6. The Carens lineup includes four derivatives: the entry-level LS, mid-range LX and EX, and the range-topping SX.
As standard, the LS variant comes with automatic headlamps, keyless entry and ignition, and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. Standard safety features include front thorax and curtain airbags, rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera, ABS, ESC, Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), and Downhill Brake Control (DBC).
The LX variant adds 17-inch alloy wheels, electric folding mirrors, roof rails/roof rack, artificial leather seats and a console box, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, cruise control, and a wireless phone charging pad. The EX features LED daytime running lights, a smart key fob with remote start, a larger 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, digital instrumentation, fore and aft parking distance sensors, and single-zone climate control.
The flagship SX grade offers LED headlamps, an electronic parking brake, electric adjustment for the driver’s seat, front seat heating, a BOSE sound system, dual 12.3-inch TFT displays for infotainment and instrumentation, and ambient lighting. Additional safety features include smart cruise control, automatic wipers, blind-spot collision avoidance, blind-spot view monitor, and surround view monitor.
The Kia Carens is offered in four colours: Glacier White Pearl, Gravity Grey, Pewter Olive and Ivory Silver.
Across the range, the Carens uses a 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine, paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. It delivers 85 kW and 250 N.m of torque, with the latter available from 1 500 r/min. Kia claims an average fuel consumption of 5.4 L/100km, giving a total driving range of 850 km when the 45-litre fuel tank is full.
(Image: Kia)
Kia Carens price in SA
The Kia Carens is priced from R399 995 for the entry-level LS model to R599 995 for the range-topping SX derivative. The price includes a five-year/unlimited km warranty, a three-year/45 000 km service plan, and 24/7 roadside assistance.
– Kia Carens LS – R399 995
– Kia Carens LX – R459 995
– Kia Carens EX – R499 995
– Kia Carens SX – R599 995
