A car’s performance is as much a matter of necessity as it is of the thrill it provides. So, what are some of the best performance cars, or top sports cars in India? What goes into making a high-performance car model? Let us compare Kia Carens’ petrol automatics, and see how its DCT and iMT gearboxes perform..
In this article, we will share
- What a performance enthusiast should look for in a car
- Kia Carens – a comprehensive analysis of its petrol automatic variants, performance and features
- How to pick the right car for you
What a Performance Enthusiast Looks for in a Car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a performance enthusiast:
- Acceleration and Speed – How quickly a car accelerates, what is its top speed
- Power – How it pulls weight, how is its high speed stability, does it feel strained while going up the hills, or with AC on
- Agility – How it behaves while turning at speeds
- Driving Experience/Handling – Is the gearbox smooth and responsive, how is its steering/braking performance
Performance enthusiasts prioritize driving dynamics, engine performance, and handling when choosing a car. They seek vehicles with powerful and responsive engines that deliver quick acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. A well-tuned suspension system that minimizes body roll and provides precise handling is essential.
Performance enthusiasts also appreciate advanced transmission options, such as dual-clutch or automatic transmissions, for seamless gear changes. They value features like sport mode, paddle shifters, and steering-mounted controls that enhance the driving experience. Additionally, performance enthusiasts look for cars with a sporty and aggressive design, premium interior materials, and advanced infotainment systems that complement the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
Why Kia Carens is popular
The Kia Carens has gained popularity among performance enthusiasts due to its impressive engine options and driving dynamics. The Carens offers a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine that delivers 157.81 BHP and 253 Nm of torque, providing quick acceleration and a thrilling driving experience. The advanced DCT transmission ensures smooth and fast gear changes, enhancing the overall performance.
The Carens’ well-tuned suspension system offers a stable ride and minimal body roll, allowing for precise handling and cornering. The car’s agility and responsive steering make it enjoyable to drive on winding roads and highways alike.
Performance enthusiasts also appreciate the Carens’ sporty and modern design, which features sculpted body lines and futuristic elements. The premium interior materials, advanced infotainment system, and Bose audio system in select variants further enhance the driving experience.
With its combination of powerful engine, advanced transmission, and dynamic handling, the Kia Carens has become a popular choice among performance enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating driving experience in a stylish and feature-packed package.
Petrol automatic (DCT, iMT) variants shortlist for Kia Carens
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 23 April 2024 |
| Luxury iMT | ₹1,635,000 |
| Luxury Opt DCT | ₹1,715,000 |
| Luxury Plus iMT 6 STR | ₹1,765,000 |
| Luxury Plus iMT | ₹1,770,000 |
| Luxury Plus DCT | ₹1,860,000 |
| X-Line DCT 6 STR | ₹1,895,000 |
Kia Carens Luxury iMT
This variant is an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts who prefer a manual transmission. The iMT (intelligent Manual Transmission) system offers a smooth and engaging driving experience, allowing for greater control over the car’s performance. The 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine delivers quick acceleration and linear power delivery, making it a joy to drive. If you’re buying your first car, you can read our guide to the best Carens variants for you.
Kia Carens Luxury Opt DCT
The Luxury Opt DCT variant is perfect for performance enthusiasts who desire the convenience of an automatic transmission without compromising on performance. The advanced DCT transmission offers fast and seamless gear changes, enhancing the driving experience. The Bose audio system and premium interior features add to the overall appeal of this variant. If you’re looking for a family car, you can read our comparison of the Carens with Mahindra XUV700 2024.
Kia Carens Luxury Plus iMT 6 STR
This variant combines the engaging driving experience of the iMT system with the added comfort of a 6-seater configuration. The captain seats in the second row provide a more premium and spacious feel, making it ideal for performance enthusiasts who frequently travel with family or friends. If you’re a gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Carens with Toyota Rumion.
Kia Carens Luxury Plus iMT
The Luxury Plus iMT variant offers all the benefits of the iMT system, along with additional features such as wireless charging and a panoramic sunroof. These features enhance the overall driving experience and add a touch of luxury to the car.
Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT
This variant is the perfect combination of performance and convenience. The advanced DCT transmission ensures quick and smooth gear changes, while the Bose audio system and premium interior features create a luxurious and immersive driving experience.
Kia Carens X-Line DCT 6 STR
The X-Line DCT 6 STR variant is the top-of-the-line option for performance enthusiasts. It offers all the benefits of the DCT transmission, along with a sportier exterior design and exclusive interior features. The 6-seater configuration with captain seats adds to the overall comfort and premium feel of the car.
Our Pick for the Best Kia Carens Petrol Automatic Variant for Performance Enthusiasts
After carefully analyzing the shortlisted variants, we recommend the Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT as the best option for performance enthusiasts. This variant offers the perfect combination of performance, comfort, and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience.
The Luxury Plus DCT variant is powered by a 1.5-liter turbo petrol engine that delivers an impressive 157.81 BHP and 253 Nm of torque. The engine’s quick responsiveness and linear power delivery ensure a thrilling driving experience, whether navigating city streets or cruising on highways. The advanced DCT transmission offers fast and seamless gear changes, enhancing the overall performance and driving pleasure.
The Carens Luxury Plus DCT also comes equipped with a range of premium features that elevate the driving experience. The Bose audio system provides an immersive sound experience, while the wireless charging and panoramic sunroof add convenience and luxury. The well-designed interior, with premium materials and advanced infotainment system, creates a comfortable and engaging environment for the driver and passengers alike.
The car’s stable ride, minimal body roll, and agile handling make it a joy to drive on winding roads and highways. The responsive steering and advanced safety features, such as ESC and traction control, instill confidence in the driver and ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
The Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT offers the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and convenience, making it the best variant for performance enthusiasts who desire a thrilling and luxurious driving experience.
The Top 3 choices
- Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT
- Kia Carens X-Line DCT 6 STR
- Kia Carens Luxury Opt DCT
| Attributes | Luxury Plus DCT | X-Line DCT 6 STR | Luxury Opt DCT |
| Turbocharging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Transmission – Auto Type | DCT | DCT | DCT |
| Transmission – # of gears | 7 | 7 | 6 |
| Wireless charging | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audio System (Brand) | Bose | Bose | Bose |
| Sunroof (panoramic, standard) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ventilated seats | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT stands out for its perfect blend of performance and luxury. The advanced DCT transmission, powerful turbo petrol engine, and premium features like the Bose audio system and panoramic sunroof make it an attractive choice for performance enthusiasts who desire a high-end driving experience.
- The Kia Carens X-Line DCT 6 STR is a close second, offering similar performance and features as the Luxury Plus DCT. The 6-seater configuration with captain seats adds a touch of exclusivity and comfort, making it ideal for performance enthusiasts who frequently travel with family or friends.
- The Kia Carens Luxury Opt DCT is another excellent option, providing the benefits of the DCT transmission and premium features like the Bose audio system and ventilated seats. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the top two variants, it still offers a thrilling and comfortable driving experience.
All three variants offer a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and comfort. Performance enthusiasts can choose the variant that best suits their specific needs and preferences, knowing that they will enjoy an exhilarating and feature-packed driving experience.
If you’re interested in reading more such guides to popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
