Kia Carens Diesel iMT Could Launch in India Soon

Kia India is planning to give the best-selling Carens a major engine update. Reportedly, the company is expected to launch the Carens in a diesel iMT (intelligent manual shifting) trim soon. Furthermore, Kia is also preparing to introduce a new five-seat version of the Carens, which will be positioned below the current entry-level Premium option in the Carens' line-up. As of now, the Kia Carens is available only as a 6- or 7-seater car. That's not all, the company will also expectedly replace the older 1.4-litre turbo-petrol engine with a new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit before the RDE (Real Driving Emissions) norms come into effect from April 1 this year. 

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The Kia Carens diesel iMT trim will likely use the same 1.5-litre engine, which delivers 113bhp of maximum power and 250Nm of peak torque. After the Seltos, the Carens will be the second unit in the Kia line-up to get this iMT or clutchless gearbox. Presently, the Carens diesel is offered only with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission options. 

When launched, the entry-level Kia Carens will be available in only two engine options – a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. According to the company, both engines will be RDE and E20 compliant.

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The new 5-seat trim will reportedly make the Kia Carens the only MPV in its class with an option of a 5-seat configuration. The Kia Carens currently costs Rs 10.19 lakh (ex-showroom) and competes with the likes of the Maruti Suzuki XL6 and Ertiga. 

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