Kia Carens CNG Launched: Brand’s First CNG Model Targets Affordable MPV Market

Kia Carens CNG: Kia’s First Step Into the CNG Segment

Kia India has officially stepped into the CNG segment with the Carens CNG, marking a significant move towards affordable and efficient mobility solutions. The Carens CNG is available in a single Premium (O) variant, with the CNG kit offered as a dealer-level fitment for an additional ₹77,900 over the petrol model’s ex-showroom price of ₹10.99 lakh.

Unlike Hyundai’s factory-fitted twin-cylinder approach, Kia has opted for a third-party CNG kit supplied by Lovato, a well-known name in the aftermarket CNG space. The move makes Carens CNG an appealing option for cost-conscious buyers, particularly fleet operators seeking a dependable 7-seater with lower running costs.

Performance and Technical Details

Under the hood, the Carens CNG uses Kia’s 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which produces 115hp in its standard form. Power and torque figures in CNG mode haven’t been officially revealed, as the kit isn’t factory homologated. However, buyers can expect slightly reduced performance in exchange for substantially improved fuel efficiency.

The CNG kit comes with a 3-year/1,00,000 km third-party warranty, ensuring peace of mind for long-term owners. Since this is a dealer-fitted unit, installation will be carried out by authorised Kia dealers to maintain quality and safety standards.

Features and Equipment: Premium Yet Practical

The Premium (O) variant of the Carens remains feature-rich despite being the entry-level offering. It includes:

• 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• Roof-mounted AC vents for 2nd and 3rd rows
• One-touch electric tumble for 2nd-row seats
• Semi-leatherette upholstery
• Rear-view camera, electric ORVMs, and keyless entry
• Shark-fin antenna and rear parking sensors

In terms of safety, Kia continues to offer a strong package — with six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, vehicle stability management, all-wheel disc brakes, and ISOFIX mounts. The Carens also carries a three-star GNCAP safety rating, further reassuring buyers of its safety credentials.

Target Audience: Fleet Operators and Budget-Conscious Families

With the addition of a CNG option, Kia is clearly expanding the Carens’ appeal. While the newer Carens Clavis caters to premium private buyers, the Carens CNG focuses on value-seeking customers and fleet operators who prioritise low running costs and spacious interiors over top-end tech.

In cities like Delhi NCR, where CNG vehicles enjoy greater acceptance due to green regulations, the Carens CNG could quickly become a preferred choice for personal taxis and corporate fleets.

CNG Setup and Practical Considerations

The CNG cylinder is mounted in the boot, similar to other three-row CNG MPVs such as the Maruti Ertiga and XL6. While this reduces the available luggage space, the Carens continues to offer flexible seating and easy access to all rows, maintaining its reputation as one of the most practical family MPVs in the market.

Although Kia hasn’t disclosed the official mileage figures yet, real-world efficiency is expected to exceed 25 km/kg, significantly improving overall cost per kilometre compared to petrol or diesel versions.

Verdict: A Smart Step Towards Affordable, Greener Mobility

The launch of the Kia Carens CNG signals the brand’s first foray into India’s growing CNG car market — a space where practicality, efficiency, and affordability are key. By offering a well-equipped 7-seater with a reliable CNG setup, Kia has opened new doors for customers who want to combine family comfort with economical running costs.

Whether for business or family use, the Carens CNG stands as an intelligent and timely move — making Kia’s versatile MPV lineup more accessible and future-ready.