Kia Carens
The Carens is a practical, seven-seat compact people carrier designed to compete with the Vauxhall Zafira and Toyota Verso. But while its basic appeal means it's practical, fuss-free transport for large families, it doesn’t offer much more than that. In many respects it feels a step behind more recent Kias, such as the Cee’d and the Soul. The cabin is bland and fashioned from hard grey plastics, and the driving position lacks adjustment. It is well priced, however.
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Pros:
- Improved design
- Comfort and refinement
- Practical seven-seat layout
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Cons:
- Getting expensive
- Rear seats only for occasional use
- Not the best driver’s MPV
The Kia Carens is the latest and last Kia to feature the firm's up-to-date design, technology and engineering to allow it compete with Europe's best. However, it now comes with a price tag to match. The new car replaces both the previous Carens and the larger Sedona and is now only available with seven seats.
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Pros:
- Cabin space and large boot
- Inexpensive compared to rivals
- Seven-year warranty
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Cons:
- Body roll in corners
- Bland styling and cheap plastics
- Tall drivers won't like driving position
Basic versions of the Kia Carens only get five seats, while mid and high-spec models get seven. The extra chairs are small and take up boot space, although they’re easily folded if not needed. Changes in 2010 simplified the line-up, giving buyers two engines (a 1.6 petrol and 1.6 diesel) and three trims (called 1, 2 and 3) to choose from. All have lots of space and equipment, but the Carens nonetheless feels dated compared to rivals.
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