Kia Carens Clavis: A Premium 7-Seater MPV Set to Redefine the Segment

The Indian automobile market is set to welcome an exciting addition in the 7-seater MPV segment — the Kia Carens Clavis. Expected to launch on May 23, 2025, this new variant from Kia aims to blend the practicality of a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with the rugged appeal and features of a premium SUV. Positioned above the standard Kia Carens, the Clavis offers advanced technologies, enhanced styling, and a feature-rich cabin.

This article explores everything you need to know about the Kia Carens Clavis, including its design, features, engine options, safety enhancements, and expected pricing.

A New Chapter in Kia’s MPV Lineup

Kia India has established itself as a strong player in the MPV and SUV markets, and the Carens has been one of its most successful offerings. The Carens Clavis is a more premium, technologically advanced alternative to the standard Carens, targeted at customers seeking a feature-loaded 7-seater with a touch of luxury and innovation.

Exterior Design: SUV-Inspired Sophistication

The Kia Carens Clavis sports a bold and modern exterior design that distinguishes it from the traditional Carens. The Clavis features:

• Triangular LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights (DRLs)
• A revised front grille and sculpted bumper for a more aggressive appearance
• Full-width LED light bar at the rear, enhancing visibility and style
• Satin silver skid plates and body cladding to add a rugged SUV appeal
• 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, an upgrade from the 16-inch wheels on the standard Carens

The Clavis adopts a more upright stance, bridging the gap between a family MPV and a modern SUV, which appeals to Indian buyers looking for versatility and style.

Interior and Cabin Experience: Premium Comforts and Space

Inside, the Kia Carens Clavis brings a significant upgrade in terms of layout, features, and materials. The dashboard is completely redesigned and incorporates:

• Dual 12.3-inch screens: One for the digital instrument cluster and another for infotainment
• A two-spoke steering wheel with integrated controls
• A panoramic sunroof, a first for the Carens lineup
• Ambient lighting with customizable colors
• Ventilated front seats and 4-way power-adjustable driver seat

The use of soft-touch materials, dual-tone upholstery, and refined design elements elevates the cabin experience. Available in both 6-seater (captain seats) and 7-seater (bench seat) configurations, the Clavis caters to varying customer needs.

Powertrain and Transmission Options

The Kia Carens Clavis retains the same powertrain options as the standard Carens but adds flexibility in transmission configurations:

Engine Options:

• 1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
  • Power: 115 PS
  • Torque: 144 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual / CVT
• 1.5L Turbocharged Petrol
  • Power: 160 PS
  • Torque: 253 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed iMT / 7-speed DCT
  • Clavis Exclusive: Also available with a 6-speed manual, not offered in the standard Carens
• 1.5L Diesel
  • Power: 116 PS
  • Torque: 250 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic

The HTX Plus variant of the Clavis is exclusively available with the turbo-petrol engine, emphasizing performance and premium driving dynamics.

Technology and Infotainment

Kia has equipped the Clavis with next-generation technology that enhances connectivity, convenience, and entertainment:

• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Premium Bose sound system
• Over-the-air (OTA) updates
• Connected car tech with Kia Connect features
• USB Type-C ports for all three rows
• Multiple drive modes for performance customization

The infotainment system supports voice commands and vehicle diagnostics, making the Clavis a smart companion for modern families.

Advanced Safety Features with Level-2 ADAS

One of the standout highlights of the Kia Carens Clavis is the inclusion of Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). Safety features include:

• Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA)
• Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist
• Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
• Electronic parking brake with auto-hold

These advanced systems provide a safer driving experience and set a new benchmark in the MPV segment. The Clavis also features six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard.

Variant Details and Differentiation

The Clavis will be available in multiple variants, with the HTX and HTX Plus expected to be the most feature-loaded trims. Key distinctions include:

• HTX Plus (Top Variant): Panoramic sunroof, captain seats, turbo-petrol engine, full ADAS suite
• HTX Variant: Available with diesel engine, standard sunroof, and essential tech features

These options allow buyers to choose between performance-focused or value-oriented configurations depending on budget and preference.

Pricing and Market Positioning

While Kia has not officially disclosed the pricing, the Carens Clavis is expected to start around ₹17.5 lakh, going up to ₹21 lakh for the top-spec variants (ex-showroom). This positions it slightly above the standard Carens, which ranges from ₹10.60 lakh to ₹19.70 lakh (ex-showroom, India).

The Clavis competes with premium variants of the Hyundai Alcazar, Maruti Suzuki XL6, and Toyota Rumion, offering more features and a sophisticated package.

Conclusion

The Kia Carens Clavis is set to redefine expectations in the 7-seater MPV segment by offering a balanced mix of premium features, advanced safety, bold design, and powerful performance. It retains the practicality of the standard Carens while appealing to buyers seeking an upscale, tech-rich experience.

With its launch scheduled for May 23, 2025, the Carens Clavis is poised to become a strong contender in the Indian market, especially for families who want more than just utility from their vehicle.

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