Kia Carens 7-seater SUV unveiled; to rival Hyundai Alcazar

The Kia Carens will compete with the Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, Toyota Innova Crysta and the likes.

Kia has taken the wraps off the Carens 7-seater. The company claims that it combines the practicality of MPV with the bold stance of SUVs.

The styling of the Carens is based on Kia's latest design philosophy. It features a slim front grille with a chrome garnish and Y-shaped LED daytime running lights on either side. The LED headlamp pods are positioned below the DRL cluster. Also note, the 'Tiger Nose' now sits on the bumper. It is flanked by a set of LED fog lamps. At the rear, the Carens feature L-shaped tail lamps with a reflector stripe in the centre.

On the inside, the Kia Carens comes with a clean dashboard layout featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with an 8-speaker Bose audio system. The car has features like a digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, automatic climate control with an air purifier and retractable rear trays with cupholders; among others. 

Kia Carens feature highlights:

• 6 airbags (standard across all variants)
• Disc brakes on all four corners
• Drive modes - Sport, Eco, Normal
• Paddle shifters (AT variants)
• Ambient lighting
• Sunroof

The Kia Carens SUV shares its underpinnings with the Seltos. While the company hasn't revealed the powertrain options, the car is expected to be offered with the same engine and transmission options, including a 7-speed DCT and 6-speed automatic as the Seltos.

The Kia Carens will compete with the Hyundai Alcazar, MG Hector Plus, Toyota Innova Crysta and the likes when it goes on sale early next year.