Kia has just added a new variant to its Carens range, called the Carens Clavis. This additional variant is positioned as a more premium and feature rich version of the regular Carens. The Carens Clavis features more aggressive styling, a more premium interior, and additional engine choices, competing aggressively to change the style of a modern MPV. So how does the Carens Clavis actually compare against its sibling? We will now look through the main differences and help you determine which car would suit your needs the best.
Exterior Design – Bold vs. Sophisticated
The Carens Clavis follows the new EV-inspired design language from Kia, and actually appears to take some inspiration from the Kia EV5. The exterior has a much more modern and aggressive look, with triangular headlamp designs, 3-pod design for the lighting, and a large inverted L-shaped connected LED DRL that spans the full front end of the car. The bumpers are newer, featuring a tidier satin silver finish instead of chrome. The alloy wheels are bigger, as they are now 17 inches, rather than 16 inches of the Carens. In the back of the car is also a more aggressive appearance with improved LED detailing and a joined LED light bar, adding some extra premium look. The standard Carens is more conventional with its exterior design, with contrasting black trims and less flashy detailing.
Interior and Features – Luxury Meets Technology
The Clavis adds a more premium touch with a floating, connected screen setup, including a 12.3-inch infotainment display, as opposed to the 10.25-inch unit on the regular Carens. The dashboard is new, with a matte texture instead of a gloss finish as the Carens. Also notable is the panoramic sunroof which is a first for the Carens, replacing the single-pane that is found on the Carens. Kia is also offering a 4-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat and the ADAS suite, including adaptive cruise control, front collision assist, and lane keep assist. The Clavis and Carens both have similar features such as ventilated front seats, 360-degree camera, Bose sound system and wireless charging. But, the Clavis adds to the features such as improved ambient lighting, a new HVAC control panel, and upgraded seat upholstery.
Powertrain Offerings – More Options, Less Restriction
Under the bonnet, Clavis and Carens are motivated by three engines:
- 1.5-litre petrol (115hp)
- 1.5 diesel (116hp)
- 1.5-litre turbo-petrol (160hp)
And the big things that have changed are the transmissions. Meanwhile, the Clavis adds a 6-speed manual for its turbo-petrol, in addition to the 6-speech iMT, and 7-speed DCT that is offered on the standard Carens. Furthermore, Kia has announced that an all-electric version of the Clavis is on the way, further enhancing its appeal over the regular model.
Technology and Safety – Contemporary Features and Enhanced Safety
The Clavis comes with a number of segment-firsts including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that has adaptive cruise control, front collision assist and lane keep assist. It also has four-way power adjustable driver’s seat, which is missing on the Carens.Other features that are exclusive here are the power one-touch double-folding second-row seat and Bose sound system and an electric tumble function for the second-row. Both models shares dual dashcam, ventilated front seats 360 degree camera and connected tech.
Infotainment and Connectivity – Bigger and Better Screens
Clavis In terms of both aesthetics and functionality, the appearance date 12.3 inch, floating connected screen that has been installed in the Clavis looks much more modern. This is complemented with Kia’s newest UI for effortless navigation and in-car entertainment. Siblings The standard Carens comes with an inch smaller, 10.25-inch touchscreen that is functional if unexciting compared to its sibling.
Seating Configuration and Comfort – More Premium Experience
Both models are available in 6-seater and 7-seater configurations, but the Clavis elevates the experience with new seat upholstery, improved ambient lighting, and a more refined interior. The 4-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat and the panoramic sunroof further enhance cabin comfort in the Clavis.
Pricing and Positioning – A Class Above
The Kia Carens Clavis will be a more premium offering and is likely to be at a minor premium to the standard Carens. While the Carens starts at ₹10.6 lakh and goes up to ₹19.7 lakh (ex-showroom), the Clavis is expected to start at ₹11 lakh and can go upto ₹21 lakh (ex-showroom). The two cars will compete with the Toyota Rumion, Maruti Ertiga, and Maruti XL6 in the mid-size MPV space.
Final Verdict – Elevate Your Drive or Embrace Practical Excellence?
Picking between the Kia Carens Clavis and the regular Kia Carens really comes down to what type of driving experience and owner satisfaction you crave. The Clavis isn’t merely an upgrade, it’s a declaration. With its innovative design drawing on Kia’s electric car range, additional comfort amenities such as the panoramic sunroof and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment, and an all-electric model to come, the Clavis is designed for those looking to make a statement on the road and revel in every drive in luxurious style.
On the other hand, the regular Carens remains an extremely well-proportioned MPV with great value for money, helpful features, and a comfortable ride perfect for families and regular commuters. It does not skimp on anything but keeps things uncomplicated and dependable and keeps costs low, making it the perfect buy for buyers seeking a dependable, capable car without spending too much.
Essentially, if you are innovation-driven, luxury-oriented, and tech-savvy for the future, the Carens Clavis is all set to revolutionize your driving experience and redefine family transportation with refinement. However, if you desire tested practicality in a well-known, useful package with an impressive feature list, the Kia Carens remains a smart and reasonable option.
Whatever your route, Kia’s Carens range delivers versatility, design, and comfort that suits different lifestyles—so both models win on their own merits. Your choice is up to you: Do you want to get with the next generation of MPVs, or are you looking for a proven friend that balances functionality and price perfectly? Kia has both your bases covered.