Kia has officially announced specifications for the CNG-powered Carens and Carens Clavis MPVs on the sidelines of the Sorento launch. Both MPVs will be available with a factory-fitted CNG kit with the 1.5-litre, naturally aspirated engine, and will be offered with a 60-litre CNG tank positioned in the boot. Kia has long expressed its intent to enter India’s growing CNG segment, and this officially marks their entry into this space. So far, the Carens was offered with a CNG kit, but as a dealer-level fitment. Prices for the Carens and Carens Clavis with factory-fitted CNG kit can be expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
In CNG spec, the 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine will produce 93hp and 123Nm of torque – that’s 22hp and 21Nm less than the petrol-powered counterpart. Kia hasn’t revealed a fuel-efficiency figure yet, but says the engine has been calibrated to not compromise on performance. Kia has also retuned the suspension and upgraded the front disc brakes to account for the additional tank weight. Kia has also managed to retain the spare wheel positioned under the car.