Kia Carens CNG launched in India at Rs 12.12 lakh — Price, engine and boot space explained
- 1It is offered exclusively on the Carens' Premium (O) trim
- 2CNG-MT variant costs Rs 1 lakh more than the equivalent petrol-MT trim
- 360-litre CNG tank under the boot floor cuts luggage space from 216L to 116L
Kia has launched the factory-fitted CNG version of the Carens in India at Rs 12.12 lakh, ex-showroom. The CNG version was first showcased alongside the Sorento during its India debut. With this launch, Kia has entered the factory-fitted CNG space with the Carens.
Earlier, buyers looking for a CNG-powered Carens had to rely on dealer-fitted kits. The new version comes directly from the factory, with changes to the engine, suspension and braking system made by Kia.
Kia Carens CNG price and variant
The Carens CNG is available only in the Premium (O) trim and is priced at Rs 12.12 lakh, ex-showroom. This is Rs 1 lakh more than the petrol-MT version of the same trim, which is priced at Rs 11.12 lakh. Kia has not added the CNG option to any other Carens variant for now.
Compared with its rivals, the Carens CNG is around Rs 43,000 more expensive than the Toyota Rumion CNG, while it is Rs 49,000 cheaper than the Maruti XL6 CNG. The Maruti Ertiga CNG has the lowest starting price in this comparison, ranging from Rs 10.94 lakh to Rs 12 lakh. This puts the Carens CNG towards the higher end of the segment, but it still costs less than the XL6 CNG.
Kia Carens CNG engine and performance
The Carens CNG gets a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine tuned to run on CNG. It produces 96hp and 123Nm, which is 19hp and 21Nm less than the petrol version of the same engine. The engine comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox. However, Kia has not yet announced the certified fuel-efficiency figure for the Carens CNG. Early estimates suggest a mileage of around 22-25 km per kg.
Kia Carens CNG boot space and other changes
The factory-fitted CNG tank is placed under the boot floor. The 60-litre tank reduces boot space from 216 litres to 116 litres. However, Kia has managed to retain the spare wheel in its original underbody position. This means buyers do not have to give up the spare wheel to accommodate the CNG tank.
The company has also retuned the suspension and upgraded the front disc brakes to handle the additional weight of the CNG system. The engine has been recalibrated for CNG use as well. Apart from these changes, the Carens CNG remains similar to the petrol Premium (O) variant in terms of features, dimensions and cabin layout.
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