Kia Carens: Prices Of New Diesel Manual Variants Leaked Ahead Of Launch

Kia Carens just received significant update in India, with the reintroduction of a manual gearbox option for the diesel engine variant. The current model solely offers an iMT automatic transmission, which is soon to be phased out, in favour of the manual transmission versions. This transition brings about six different variants for the Carens, all featuring manual transmission instead of the iMT gearbox.

The pricing for the manual transmission variants remains competitive, with minimal differences compared to the iMT variants. The Carens diesel manual will be available across various trim levels, providing customers with more choices and flexibility. Currently, the Carens diesel comes with either the iMT or a torque converter. Notably, the iMT gearbox will be discontinued with this update.

Variant wise prices of Carens Diesel Manual are as follows –

• Premium – Priced at Rs. 12.67 lakhs, which is Rs. 2000 more than the iMT.

• Premium (Optional) – Priced at Rs. 12.90 lakhs, this is a new variant in the Carens lineup

• Prestige – Available at a price of Rs. 14 lakhs which is Rs. 5000 more than its iMT counterpart.

• Prestige Plus – Price increased by Rs. 2,000. The new price is Rs. 15.47 lakhs.

• Luxury – Priced at Rs. 17.15 lakhs, which is Rs. 20,000 more than the iMT.

• Luxury Plus – No price change for this variant. Available at a price of Rs. 18.15 lakhs.

On the other hand, the prices of Carens petrol start at Rs. 10.45 lakhs and goes up to Rs. 14.85 lakhs. Please note all the prices mentioned are ex-showroom. The decision to bring back the manual transmission is due to the market demand, particularly from cab operators and chauffeur-driven customers who prefer the familiarity and reliability of a manual gearbox.

Despite the efficiency and convenience of the iMT, the preference for manual transmission persists, prompting Kia to respond to customer feedback. For those who don’t know, iMT or intelligent manual transmission is the same as manual transmission but without the clutch. The driver can shift gears as he would in a manual transmission.

Powered by the same 1.5 liter engine as the Seltos, the Carens diesel variant delivers solid performance, generating 113 bhp of power and 250 Nm of torque. The introduction of the 6-speed manual transmission is expected to enhance fuel efficiency compared to its automatic counterpart, providing an appealing option for those seeking better mileage. The Carens also offers a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 158 hp and 253 Nm of torque. However, this engine has both manual and automatic options.

The Kia Carens has received a 3-star rating in the Global NCAP crash test. While not the best, it comes equipped with six airbags, ABS, EBD, and other safety features to provide occupants with some protection in case of a collision.

In the Indian market, Kia Carens competes with Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Mahindra Marazzo. The Ertiga and XL6 offer petrol engine paired with manual or automatic transmission while the Marazza offers diesel manual only.

With its versatile range of engine options, along with seating configurations for 6 or 7 passengers, the Carens caters to the needs of large families and utility-oriented consumers. The reintroduction of the manual transmission is likely to attract more chauffeur-driven customers and cab operators, further enhancing the Carens’ appeal in the Indian market.