Kia Carens facelift snapped testing ahead of 2025 launch

A prototype of the Kia Carens facelift has been spied on test in India for the first time, hinting that the launch of the MPV is inching closer. While the test mule is fully wrapped in camouflage, some changes to the rear section are visible.

Only the rear-end of the upcoming Carens facelift has been spotted this time around. While the car is completely covered, the tail-lamps are left uncovered, revealing an updated design. A previous test mule spotted in South Korea was spied with the tail-lamps turned on, revealing the new LED pattern.

Other expected changes include new front and rear bumpers, updated alloy wheels, a new grille at the front as well as revised headlights. It will be interesting to see if Kia brings dynamic changes to the upcoming Carens facelift’s cabin layout to put it in line with the relatively fresher siblings like the Sonet compact SUV and the Seltos midsize SUV. The Carens facelift will likely be equipped with a few new features, asd it is also expected to get first-in-segment ADAS safety technology.

No changes to 1.5-litre powertrains
No changes are expected to be made to the 115hp, 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, 160hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol or 116hp, 1.5-litre diesel powertrains. Gearbox options currently on offer include a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT, a 6-speed torque converter automatic and a 7-speed dual-clutch auto.

The Kia Carens is currently priced from Rs 10.52 lakh to Rs 19.67 lakh (ex-showroom), but the facelift is expected get a slight price hike owing to the changes. A launch is only expected to take place next year. The Carens will continue to rival the Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Mahindra Marazzo, while also face competition from the Maruti Ertiga, Toyota Rumion and even the Toyota Innova Crysta.

Kia Carens EV coming up
A Carens-based EV (codenamed KY-EV) is also in the pipeline and is expected to launch in the second half of 2025. It will likely be equipped with a similar battery size and motor as the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV.
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