EXCLUSIVE: Kia Carens Discontinued? 9 Variants Axed Ahead Of Kia Carens Clavis Arrival!

In what appears to be a strategic cleanup of its MPV line-up, Kia India has quietly phased out nine versions of the Carens. The action seems to be a deliberate move before the launch of the Kia Carens Clavis, a more premium version that's likely to coexist in showrooms with the current Carens.

Let us break it down…

Only One Trim Left Standing: Premium (O)

With the curtains closing on several variants, the Kia Carens is now only available in a single trim, i.e. the Premium (O) trim.

Interestingly, this variant is available in three engine options, all of which are still available, though only available with one transmission option each:

So if you're in the market for a Carens, maybe run right away and you might get your hands on the current stock, and if not, then at the very least, your choices are now simplified, but still decently powered.

Still Feature Packed? More Like Sufficient For Everyday Duties

Although an entry-level variant, the Premium (O) never compromises on necessities. This is what you take home:

• Exterior Kit: Halogen headlights, LED DRLs, LED tail lamps, 16-inch steel rims with caps.

• Infotainment: 8-inch touchscreen display, six speakers, 4.2-inch semi-digital MID.

• Comfort & Convenience: Manual air conditioning, steering with tilt adjustment, power windows for the front and rear.

• Safety: Six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system, rear parking sensor with camera, ABS with EBD and four disc brakes on all wheels.

It does not shriek "feature-stuffed," perhaps, but it provides decent fundamentals, particularly for a family hauler.

Why The Sudden Move? Carens Clavis Incoming…

Kia hasn't announced the axing of these variants; it is more of a silent update. But all indications suggest the Carens Clavis as the instigator.

The Carens Clavis is a more premium offshoot of the Carens and is set to appeal to a slightly higher-end clientele. The Carens Clavis is stuffed with:

• Redone front and rear design

• Fresh LED lighting designs

• Larger dual-screen setup (12.3-inch)

• More creature comforts

• Panoramic Sunroof (a mass favourite)

With that sort of firepower, it's obvious Kia doesn't want overlapping variants cannibalising each other in the ever-competitive Indian automotive market.

ZigSays: Smart Move Or Risky Bet?

Kia is re-jigging the lineup, simplifying it ahead of the Carens Clavis’s much-awaited arrival on the 23rd May. Although the current option of the Carens still serves the frugal buyer, enthusiasts of mid-to-high variants could feel somewhat dissatisfied.

Additionally, the Kia Carens has also been a favourite among fleet operators for quite some time, largely thanks to its economical 1.5-litre diesel motor coupled with a manual gearbox. This derivative will probably be retained to lure in the value-driven fleet customers.

Either way, Kia's approach seems aimed at giving the Carens badge a dual identity: value with the present model and premium sheen with the Clavis suffix. 

How does that work out? We'll find out when the Carens Clavis enters the ring. Until then, stay tuned for more such news!