2013-2016 Kia Carens
History
If there is one vehicle that have to beat, it is the Toyota Innova. Throughout the years, competitors from various parts of the world have competed but had failed to topple the class leader. What is weird is that older models in which the Innova's predecessor sold better. With that description in mind, enter competitor number four, the Kia Carens since we have covered rivals from Japan (Mitsubishi Fuzion and Nissan Grand Livina) and America (Chevrolet Orlando) on this site before.
The third generation Carens under the RP chassis code first debuted at the Paris Motor Show in 2012, which may giveaway some cues for its intended market with sales commenced a year later. Two gasoline (1.6 and 2.0) and a solo diesel (1.7) were made options and these are all new to the vehicle.
Unlike rivals, this vehicle saw a second generation model for the Philippine market in 2013. Only a diesel option was offered, which is a good thing since the gasoline variant received poor sales. It was silently discontinued in 2016, with two variants being offered throughout selling life.
Value and Costs
Unlike a seven year old Innova or Crosswind, the Kia Carens suffers from low resale values which benefits second hand buyers like you. With the cheapest example you can find is P520,000 plus Kia's five year warranty, it is one bargain especially with a car like driving dynamics and stellar diesel engine. Except for a two row LX model launched in 2015, there are virtually no changes done to the vehicle.
Maintaining one is somewhat on the higher side compared to the Japanese competition. Parts are available in parts specialist shops catering to Korean brands. Fuel consumption is similar to diesel counterparts, which is a plus point.
Exterior and Interior
Thanks to the efforts of Peter Schreyer, the Carens is one stylish MPV which you wouldn't feel ashamed driving of. EX models gain daytime running lamps and a panoramic sun roof, while the lower models don't.
Do not let the smallish size fool you, especially that it can fit seven people in three rows of seats (except the last two people should be smaller ones) and fold the last one, you'll be treated to more space for cargoes. If you own a Hyundai-Kia vehicle, the Carens' interior will give you a feeling of familiarity with the layout of the dash coupled with a high quality interior.
Engine
While a diesel engine is the sole option, it is a new powerplant that has seen life in this vehicle. A 1.7 CRDI diesel with 134hp at 4,000rpm and 320Nm (for automatics) or 330Nm (standard among manuals) at 2,500rpm is the only choice and you wouldn't be disappointed. While powerful, it has improved in terms of refinement and smoothness.
Driving Impressions
You would think that you were driving a sedan, albeit with three rows of seats. It is easy to drive yet retains its car-like handling.
Verdict
The Innova is one car to beat but no matter how smooth the rival's ride are or drives well, but what is important is they had tried hard. One achievement of the Carens is it had reached its second generation model despite popular models surrounding it.
The Good:
- Looks good
- Drives well
- Easy to bring around
The Bad:
- Ain't that spacious
- Basic interior
- Expensive when brand new
The Pick: 1.7 EX
Engine: 1,685cc D4FD I4 diesel
Power: 134hp @ 4,000rpm
Torque: 320Nm (A/T) or 330Nm (M/T) @ 2,500rpm
Fuel Consumption: 8-10km/L (city), 11-13km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Suspension: Front McPherson strut, rear torsion beam
MORE INFO
Price (New): P1,200,000-P1,500,000
Price (Now): P520,000-P815,000
On Sale: 2013-2016
Rivals: Chevrolet Orlando, Mitsubishi Fuzion, Nissan Grand Livina, Toyota Innova
Resources:
http://www.kia-forums.com/kia-carens-rondo-forum/
Contacts:
Kia Pasay - (02) 852-1490
