KIA CARENS

The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine adds a dash of sportiness to the well-rounded package

- SANEET DSILVA

The Kia Carens has been an impressive allrounder MPV with its blend of styling, comfort, and features as well as an efficient powertrain. A blend that helped it win Kia India's maiden ICOTY award. It now gets sportier, thanks to a new 1.5-litre T-GDi turbo-petrol powertrain that replaces the 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine. Does this new motor add a sportier facet to the Carens? We tested it extensively in the city as well as had an intercity round trip to see how it fares.

As far as looks go, the Kia Carens is one goodlooking MPV. It sports a traditional MPV design with a modern front end that showcases Kia's signature Tiger Face, complemented by distinctive LED headlamps. Based on the Kia Seltos' platform, the Carens gets an extended wheelbase which allows for a spacious rear, offering easy access to the second and third rows. Stylish 16-inch alloy wheels complement the exterior design well.