Kia Carens CNG: Kia India has officially introduced the Carens CNG, adding a fuel-efficient and eco-friendly option to its popular MPV lineup. Priced at ₹11.77 lakh (ex-showroom), this version offers a dealer-level CNG kit developed by Lovato, one of the most trusted aftermarket CNG solution providers. Designed to meet the growing demand for affordable, greener mobility, the Carens CNG is aimed at both family buyers and fleet operators.
Key Highlights of Kia Carens CNG
- Price: ₹11.77 lakh (ex-showroom)
- CNG Kit Cost: ₹77,900 (dealer-level retrofit)
- Variant Offered: Premium (O)
- Warranty: 3 years / 1,00,000 km (third-party by Lovato)
- Fitment Type: Dealer-installed, government-approved CNG kit
Kia Carens CNG Design and Interior
- The CNG variant retains the stylish MPV silhouette of the Carens.
- Offered only in the Premium (O) trim, it comes with:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Roof-mounted AC vents for 2nd and 3rd rows
- Semi-leatherette upholstery
- Manual AC with rear vents
- Electric ORVMs and shark-fin antenna
- Reverse parking camera
- Keyless entry
While boot space may reduce slightly due to the CNG tank installation, the three-row seating configuration ensures the Carens remains practical for family and commercial use.
Efficiency and Running Costs
The biggest appeal of the Carens CNG lies in its low running cost and eco-friendly performance. Though Kia hasn’t disclosed official mileage figures, one can expect fuel efficiency upwards of 25 km/kg, making it one of the most economical 7-seater MPVs in the segment.
Its green fuel compatibility also ensures smoother registration in pollution-sensitive regions like Delhi NCR, where CNG vehicles face fewer restrictions compared to diesel models.
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Kia Carens CNG Engine and Performance
- Engine Type: 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine
- Power (Petrol Mode): 115 PS
- Power (CNG Mode): Expected between 95–100 PS
- Torque: 144 Nm (Petrol Mode)
- Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
While the Carens CNG retains the same engine from the standard petrol version, slight output reduction is expected due to the CNG conversion. The performance remains ideal for city commutes and highway runs, offering a balance between efficiency and practicality.
Safety and Features
Kia maintains its reputation for offering top-notch safety equipment, even in the base variant.
- Six airbags (standard across all variants)
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)
- Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
- All-wheel disc brakes
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Rear parking sensors
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
The Carens also holds a 3-star Global NCAP safety rating, making it a solid choice in its segment.
CNG Kit Details
- Supplied by Lovato, an established Italian CNG kit manufacturer
- Fully government-approved retrofit
- Covered by a 3-year / 1,00,000 km third-party warranty
- Installed at Kia-authorised dealerships to ensure quality and safety compliance
- Since it’s a dealer-level kit, boot space reduction is expected—similar to rivals like the Ertiga CNG and XL6 CNG
Market Position & Rivals
The Kia Carens CNG is positioned strategically to compete with leading family MPVs and CNG models such as:
- Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG
- Maruti Suzuki XL6 CNG
- Toyota Rumion CNG
- Renault Triber CNG (aftermarket)
With its 7-seater capacity, premium interiors, and affordable operating costs, the Carens CNG bridges the gap between personal and commercial MPV buyers.
Who Is It For?
The Carens CNG caters to:
- Families seeking an economical, low-maintenance 7-seater
- Fleet operators aiming for reduced per-kilometre cost
- Taxi aggregators needing CNG-powered MPVs for city operations
- Environment-conscious buyers who prefer clean fuel alternatives
Final Verdict
The Kia Carens CNG is a smart addition to Kia’s lineup, offering the right mix of affordability, practicality, and eco-friendliness. With a dealer-approved Lovato kit, extensive safety features, and a spacious 7-seater cabin, it’s ideal for both private users and fleet buyers. Although boot space takes a slight hit, the benefits in fuel economy and lower emissions make it a worthwhile trade-off. Kia’s decision to go with a dealer-level CNG fitment ensures flexibility and affordability while keeping ownership simple and reliable — a strategic move that positions the Carens CNG as one of the most value-packed MPVs in its class.
