Kia has released its first factory-fitted Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) engine model in the Indian market. This concerns the Kia Carens and Carens Clavis CNG models. The brand had previously announced these vehicles, and they were presented along with the launch of the Sorento model.
The company has now announced the prices for these vehicles. They represent a good option for buyers who were looking for a seven-seater vehicle with the capability to use compressed natural gas (CNG). Previously, the choice in this segment was limited to models such as the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, XL-6, and Toyota Rumion. Now, consumers have two new options available.
The Kia Carens CNG model was launched at a price of 12.12 lakh rupees. The Kia Carens Clavis CNG is available for 12.39 lakh rupees. It is important to note that the Carens CNG will only be available in the premium configuration (O).
The Clavis CNG model can be purchased in the mid-level configurations HTE and HTE (O). All three configurations cost 100 thousand rupees more than their petrol counterparts. The cost of the Carens Clavis HTE (O) CNG version is 13.35 lakh rupees.
For comparison, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG costs between 10.94 and 12 lakh rupees. The Toyota Rumion CNG is priced at 11.69 lakh rupees with an exterior charge. And the Maruti Suzuki XL6 costs 12.61 lakh rupees with an exterior charge.
The Carens and Clavis CNG are equipped with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine that generates 96 hp and 123 Nm of torque. The car is fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission. Although Kia has not disclosed fuel economy data, it is expected that these vehicles in the CNG version can achieve a consumption of 22 to 25 kilometers per kilogram of gas.
After installing the factory CNG tank, the car's trunk capacity is 116 liters. Spare tires are also provided in the CNG variants. Kia reported that it has modified the suspension and updated the front disc brakes. The design and main characteristics of the car remain the same as the petrol version.
