Kia Carens Clavis vs Seltos Spec Comparison: What's Different?

The Kia Carens Clavis and Seltos cater to different buyer preferences despite sharing some design language and features. The Carens Clavis, based on the Carens MPV, blends SUV styling with MPV practicality. It offers both six- and seven-seat layouts, a more upright stance, and comes equipped with premium features like a twin-screen setup and Level 2 ADAS. Engine options include 1.5-litre petrol (NA and turbo) and diesel units. In contrast, the Seltos is a more traditional five-seater SUV with a sportier design, higher ground clearance, and a focus on performance. It offers similar engine choices but with a slightly more dynamic suspension setup. This comparison highlights their differences in seating, dimensions, features, and driving characteristics to guide potential buyers.

Kia Carens Clavis vs Seltos Spec Comparison: Powertrain

The Kia Carens Clavis retains the same engine options as the standard Carens, offering three choices: a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol, and a 1.5-litre diesel. It provides a wide selection of transmissions, including a 6-speed manual, 6-speed iMT (clutchless manual), 6-speed torque converter automatic, and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, catering to both comfort-focused users and performance-minded drivers.

Also Read: Kia Carens Clavis Vs Hyundai Alcazar Spec Comparison: What's Different?

The Kia Seltos, meanwhile, is offered with three engine options: a 1.5-litre petrol, a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel, and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol. The naturally aspirated petrol engine delivers 113bhp and 144Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual or CVT. The diesel produces 114.4bhp and 250Nm, available with either a 6-speed automatic or iMT. The turbo-petrol outputs 158bhp and 253Nm, mated to a 7-speed DCT or 6-speed iMT.

Kia Carens Clavis vs Seltos Spec Comparison: Price Expectations

Kia has begun accepting bookings for the Clavis, with a reservation amount of Rs 25,000. Serving as a more premium and feature-rich version of the standard Carens, the Clavis will be available in seven variants: HTE, HTE(O), HTK, HTK+, HTK+(O), HTX, and HTX+. It is anticipated to carry a starting price of around Rs 12 lakh, positioning it as a well-equipped and competitively priced model, offering multiple segment-first features.

The Kia Seltos range begins at Rs 11.19 lakh for the base HTE (O) variant. At the upper end, the fully loaded X-Line Turbo DCT commands a price of Rs 20.56 lakh, marking the highest point in the lineup. Prices are ex-showroom figures. 

Kia Carens Clavis vs Seltos Spec Comparison: Dimensions

The Kia Carens Clavis measures 4,550mm in length, 1,800mm in width, 1,708mm in height, and has a 2,780mm wheelbase.

The Seltos is 4,365mm long, 1,800mm wide, 1,645mm tall, with a 2,610mm wheelbase – making the Clavis longer, taller, and more spacious overall.

Kia Carens Clavis vs Seltos Spec Comparison: Exterior and Interior

The Kia Carens Clavis brings a bold and modern presence with its next-generation ‘Digital Tiger Face’ design, highlighted by a split-headlamp setup and a clean, contemporary profile. Key exterior elements include satin chrome skid plates at both ends, Starmap LED tail lamps joined by a connecting light bar, metal-painted side inserts, and striking 17-inch dual-tone crystal-cut alloy wheels.

Within the cabin, the Clavis is available in six- and seven-seat layouts, with the six-seater featuring a second-row bench. The interior exudes a premium feel with a dual-tone Triton Navy and Beige theme, complemented by rich leatherette upholstery. It also comes packed with high-end features such as a dual-camera dash cam with smartphone connectivity, a Bose audio system, an expansive 26.62-inch panoramic dual-screen setup, dual-zone automatic climate control, integrated navigation, ventilated front seats, and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof. Adding to passenger comfort is the Boss Mode, allowing rear occupants to adjust the front seat electronically.

Also Read: Kia Carens Clavis to Launch in India on May 23; Bookings Open

Meanwhile, the updated Kia Seltos features sleek LED headlamps integrated with DRLs, the brand’s signature tiger-nose grille, a sculpted bonnet, wraparound tail lamps, and stylish 18-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, it offers a dual 10.25-inch display setup, dual-zone climate control, Bose premium audio, an 8-inch head-up display, and a panoramic sunroof. Safety tech includes a 360-degree camera, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and an advanced Level 2 ADAS suite that incorporates adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist.