Kia’s Carens (known to us as the Rondo) will be receiving some key upgrades as it goes into the 2017 model year and will be available across Europe following its official debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, with other regions and markets to follow shortly.
Kia has, for the most part, left the third-generation Carens’ exterior design intact from its all-new debut back in 2013. However, some alterations have taken place to bring it in line with the Korean marque’s most recent corporate face. Additionally, they’ve also focused on improving he in-cabin experience as well as introducing more advanced safety and connectivity features.
Starting with the new Carens’ exterior, we find new front and rear bumpers matched to a new face that integrates the ‘tiger-nose’ grille and fog lamp and illumination array. New wheels are also on offer regardless of whether the 16-inch, 17-inch, or 18-inch varieties are specified.
The interior has been given new upholstery with either knit cloth or leather material both having new patterns and textures for both black or beige options. New metallic and gloss-black accents give it added premium look and feel as well that, rather strangely, are paired with a new carbon-effect dashboard trim.
For the first time, the Carens is now included with standard active safety features such as Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert as well as speed limiter for highway cruising. Also new is an upgraded infotainment and multimedia package, pairing either a 7 or 8-inch touchscreen with in-built satellite navigation and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
A rear view parking camera is also included as part of the Park Assist feature and displays via the central infotainment display. Buyers can also opt for the premium JBL audio system to be fitted which features an external amplifier, four main drivers, and a subwoofer.
Under the bonnet, Kia has re-engineered the 1.7-litre four-cylinder diesel engine. It produces 85kW but is augmented for improved fuel economy via the Idle Stop/Go function, a set of Michelin low rolling resistance tyres, and revised gear ratios. These are part of a suite that Kia is calling the Eco Pack.
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