Along with the launch of the much anticipated Sorento, Kia India has also shared details about two new CNG models. The Carens and Carens Clavis will soon be available with a factory-fitted CNG setup. This is an important move for Kia, as the brand has so far not offered a factory CNG option in its passenger car range.
Both MPVs will use the familiar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The CNG system gets a 60-litre tank placed under the boot floor. Kia is expected to announce prices by the end of September or early October.
1.5-litre engine with CNG
Both MPVs will use the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a CNG system. On CNG, the engine makes 93hp and 123Nm.
The petrol version makes 115hp and 144Nm, so there is a drop in output when using CNG. Kia says the engine has been calibrated for usable performance in everyday driving.
The CNG models are expected to use a 6-speed manual gearbox. Kia has not confirmed an automatic option yet.
| Kia CNG MPVs | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol |
| CNG output | 93hp |
| Torque | 123Nm |
| CNG tank | 60 litres |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual expected |
| Estimated mileage | 22-25km/kg |
| Boot space | 116 litres |
| Spare wheel | Retained under the vehicle |
Boot space takes a hit
The 60-litre CNG tank is placed under the boot floor. This reduces luggage space from 216 litres in the petrol models to 116 litres in the CNG versions.
There is one useful point here. Kia has managed to keep the spare wheel below the vehicle. This means owners do not have to give up the spare wheel to make room for the CNG system.
The official mileage figure has not been released yet. Estimates suggest it could be around 22-25km/kg.
Suspension and brakes get changes
Kia has made a few mechanical changes to handle the extra weight of the CNG hardware.
- Suspension has been retuned
- Front disc brakes have been upgraded
- 16-inch wheels will be used on the CNG versions
- Spare wheel is still available underneath
These changes should help the MPVs handle the added weight of the CNG tank.
Which variants get CNG?
The CNG option will not be offered across the full range. For the Carens Clavis, CNG will be available on:
- HTE
- HTE (O)
The older Carens will get the CNG option on the Premium trim.
Kia enters the factory CNG market
Kia has previously offered a dealer-fitted CNG kit for the Carens in some places. The new versions are different because the CNG system will be fitted at the factory.
This should make the option more convenient for buyers who want lower fuel costs without going for an aftermarket conversion.
The CNG versions will add another choice to the Carens and Carens Clavis range, which already has petrol, turbo-petrol, diesel and electric options across the two MPVs.
Launch and price
Kia has not announced the prices of the Carens and Carens Clavis CNG yet. The Carens Clavis currently starts at Rs 11.27 lakh (ex-showroom), but the CNG versions are expected to cost more.
For buyers who drive long distances every month, the new CNG versions could be an interesting option. The final price, mileage and launch date will decide how strong the package is.