Inside, the Kia Carens Clavis has a spacious cabin with more goodies than before. The room is plentiful front and rear, with the third row also able to accommodate average-sized adults. The new features extend to more than just the larger dual 12.25-inch screens and dual-pane panoramic sunroof. The Carens Clavis can be operated with an NFC-based digital key, enabling access via smartphone even for third parties. There is a new two-spoke steering wheel. It still packs a cool eight-speaker Bose premium audio system. The voice controls now support several commands in both English and Hindi with regional language support also on the cards via an over-the-air (OTA) update. The seats have a new pattern and feature plush cushioning and leatherette upholstery. The front seats are ventilated as before and feature power sliding and recline for the driver’s seat. The front passenger seat also has a handle to operate it from the second row seat. Behind the driver seat-back is the air purifier, as before. The second row offers good space, too, but, unlike the Syros, lacks the ventilation option even in this top-spec six-seat specification. Puzzling. But it’s not a deal-breaker.
The third row is a 50:50 split, too. And the second row provides easy access via a one-yank tumble. There are blower controls and air-vents in the roof, making it easier to reach and control the speed and direction of the air-flow. Behind the third row, it still has a large enough boot volume of 216 litres. For most families that need more space, both the seven- and six-seat options will work just fine with the third row folded down, providing plentiful cargo room. The key can also be used to lower the windows and air out the car, even start the engine and prepare the cabin on a warm day. Overall, the Carens Clavis retains its smart and sensible layout with plenty of comfort and convenience.
As for safety, with level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) comprising multiple cameras and radar sensors, it packs everything from adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane keep assist, steering assist, collision warning and avoidance, even incorporating oncoming collision mitigation, and rear cross traffic alerts and autonomous braking. The blind-spot warning system is augmented by the blind-view monitor, which activates in the driver info-display dial when the indicator stalk is used. The additions also include a 360° camera with surround view as well as a 3D image of the car, making it easy to negotiate tight spaces.
The Carens Clavis rides beautifully. The weight distribution feels sorted. The grip level is good, even in tight bends. Though body-roll announces itself quite clearly, the Clavis stays true to its line and gets the job done. The sound deadening is even better than before and the cabin is quiet and calm. The engine noise, too, barely filters through inside. The suspension set-up is excellent, holding the road close while dealing with undulations and bad bits of road with ease, soaking up the punishment and going on unperturbed. The steering feels sure and, though it requires more turning, the changes of direction are quick and reassuring. The brakes, too, do a great job of shedding speed, with this version employing discs front and rear.
All said and done, the Carens Clavis is a newer, more modern, and smartly improved version of the Carens, a car which I hold in high regard. It may not have the flamboyance or the desirability of a Lamborghini Revuelto or the off-road prowess of a Jeep Wrangler, but it seats occupants in comfort, has a load of safety and entertainment kit, and offers great space and flexibility. And that is what the modern family seeks to travel together on the daily. It works well everywhere and every day and caters to everyone. And that, I believe, is what many want from a new-age car. Job done.
Need to Know – Kia Carens Clavis TGDI HTX+ DCT 6-seater
Price: Rs 21.50 lakh (ex-showroom)
Engine: 1482-cc, in-line four, turbo-petrol, direct-injection
Max Power: 160 hp @ 5500 rpm
Max Torque: 253 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed, dual-clutch automatic, front-wheel drive
Suspension: MacPherson strut front, torsion beam rear
Weight: 1650 kg (estimated)
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
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