By Otsile Kadiege

Do you remember Kia’s three-row seater called the Carens? Yes, the MPV that was revealed to the world back in the fourth quarter of 2021 and was sold in specific markets like India? Well, the Carens now has a new model derivative called the X-Line. This new varient brings about new features, new styling and sits at the helm of the Carens range.

Carens X-Line exterior

On the outside, the Carens X-Line is finished with an exclusive Matte Graphite paint. Its front and rear bumper accents and roof rails are finished in gloss black while the front radiator garnish and the lower portion of the door frames retains a chrome-like finish. The Carens is still shod with dual-tone 16-inch alloy wheels.

Carens X-Line interior

Inside, unlike the other Carens the X-Line derivative is a six-seater with captain’s chairs seats on the second row. It also gets a new Sage Green and black colour scheme with orange stitching on certain areas, front ventilated seats, a 10.25 touchscreen, a 10.1-inch infotainment display behind the front passenger, an 8-speaker Bose sound system and a panoramic sunroof.

Carens X-Line powertrains

Powering the Carens X-Line are a choice of two engines, namely a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The former develops 119 kW/253 Nm and is paired with a 7-speed DCT gearbox while the latter makes 86 kW and is paired with a 6-speed auto transmission.

 Availability

Kia imported two units for evaluation and homologation in 2022, however Kia SA said there are no plans to introduce the Carens in South Africa in the foreseeable future.