Kia Carens CNG: Kia India has finally joined the growing CNG vehicle market with the launch of the Kia Carens CNG, offering a more economical option for large families and fleet operators. Unlike factory-fitted setups seen in rivals, Kia has chosen a dealer-level CNG installation, making this MPV both versatile and affordable. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this new CNG-powered version of the Carens.
Kia Carens CNG: Price and Variant Details
- Base variant: Premium (O) trim
- Ex-showroom price (petrol): ₹10.99 lakh
- Additional cost for CNG kit: ₹77,900
- Effective starting price (CNG): ₹11.77 lakh (ex-showroom)
The CNG kit is supplied by Lovato, a well-known Italian brand specializing in alternative fuel systems. It’s a dealer-level fitment, installed at authorised Kia outlets, and is backed by a 3-year/1,00,000 km third-party warranty.
Kia Carens CNG: Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Kia Carens CNG retains the same 1.5-litre naturally aspirated Smartstream petrol engine used in the standard model.
- Engine displacement: 1.5L, 4-cylinder, Smartstream petrol
- Power (petrol mode): 115 PS
- Estimated power (CNG mode): 95–100 PS (dealer-sourced figures)
- Torque (petrol mode): 144 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox
Although Kia hasn’t revealed the official performance or mileage figures for the CNG variant, it’s expected to offer 20+ km/kg fuel efficiency, positioning it competitively among other large CNG MPVs in India.
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Kia Carens CNG: Interior and Features of the Carens Premium (O) CNG
The Premium (O) variant is positioned as a well-equipped entry-level trim that balances comfort and practicality.
Key Interior Features:
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Semi-leatherette upholstery
- Roof-mounted AC vents for the second and third rows
- One-touch electric tumble for second-row seats
- Electrically adjustable ORVMs
- Shark fin antenna and keyless entry
- Rear-view camera
- 216-litre boot (may reduce slightly due to CNG cylinder)
The Carens continues to impress with clever packaging and space utilization, offering a comfortable cabin even for seven passengers.
Kia Carens CNG Safety Features
Kia hasn’t compromised on safety with the CNG variant. The Carens Premium (O) includes a comprehensive list of safety tech:
- Six airbags (standard across all variants)
- ABS with EBD
- Traction control and brake assist
- Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
- Hill-start assist and downhill brake control
- All-wheel disc brakes
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Rear parking sensors
The Carens also holds a 3-star Global NCAP safety rating, which enhances buyer confidence in family use.
Dealer-Level Fitment: What It Means
Unlike Hyundai’s factory-installed dual-cylinder setups, Kia’s CNG configuration is installed post-production by dealers.
Here’s what that means for buyers:
- Certified by government authorities and installed only at authorised Kia dealerships.
- Warranty protection: 3 years / 1,00,000 km (third-party supported).
- Lovato CNG kit ensures reliability and easy service availability.
- Non-homologated: Since it’s not a factory unit, it hasn’t been officially tested under ARAI.
Despite that, the kit adheres to safety and emission standards, and Kia’s backing gives it credibility and confidence.
Positioning: Why Kia Carens CNG Makes Sense
Kia’s decision to offer a dealer-level CNG variant is a strategic move to expand its reach among budget-conscious family buyers and fleet operators.
- The Carens is already popular for its space, comfort, and features.
- Adding a CNG option makes it more fuel-efficient and cost-effective for long-term users.
- It also allows Kia to compete with Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG and Hyundai Alcazar petrol variants in terms of affordability.
With fuel prices rising, this CNG variant gives buyers a greener, more economical alternative without compromising on the Carens’ practicality or reliability.
Competitors with Dealer-Level CNG Kits
Kia joins a small but growing list of brands offering dealer-installed CNG options in India. Others include:
- Honda Amaze and Elevate
- Renault Kwid, Triber, and Kiger
- Citroen C3 and C3 Aircross
- Nissan Magnite
This trend reflects how automakers are adapting to demand for affordable, efficient alternatives to petrol and diesel without investing in full-scale factory CNG setups.
Final Verdict
The Kia Carens CNG smartly combines space, comfort, and affordability for Indian buyers seeking a practical family MPV with lower running costs. Despite not being a factory-fitted setup, the Lovato dealer-installed kit backed by a 3-year/1,00,000 km warranty ensures peace of mind and reliability. While it may not match Hyundai’s factory dual-cylinder systems, the Carens CNG offers impressive fuel savings, strong feature list, and solid safety package — making it a great option for both private owners and fleet users.
