Kia Carens Returns to South Africa After 13 Years as Exclusive Diesel Seven-Seater

Key facts

• Fourth-generation Kia Carens launched in South Africa after 13-year hiatus.
• Exclusively powered by a 1.5L four-cylinder turbo diesel engine producing 85kW and 250Nm.
• Four models priced between R399,995 and R599,995.
• Vehicle dimensions: 4,500mm long, 1,800mm wide, 1,734mm high with 2,780mm wheelbase.
• Cargo space: 216 litres with all seats up, over 600 litres with third row folded, over 1,000 litres with all rear rows folded.
• Fuel consumption claimed at 5.3L/100km with a 900km range from a 45L tank.
• Sold with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assistance, plus a three-year/45,000km service plan.
• Kia plans to launch six models in South Africa by end of 2024, including the Tasman bakkie and an EV.

A Return After More Than a Decade

The fourth-generation Kia Carens has arrived in South African showrooms this week, ending a 13-year absence for the nameplate. First introduced in 1999 as a five-seater, the new model is built in India and now offers seven seats in a larger, more coherent package. Kia SA CEO Paul Turnbull confirmed the decision to offer only diesel powertrains, a move aimed at creating a unique position in the competitive seven-seater segment.

Pricing and Lineup Details

The Carens range starts at R399,995 for the entry-level LS and rises to R599,995 for the top-spec SX. The mid-range EX model, which Kia provided for initial test drives, features an electric driver's seat and full artificial leather upholstery. All models are front-wheel drive, with the LS equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and 16-inch wheels, while the LX, EX, and SX get a six-speed automatic and 17-inch wheels.

Design and Interior Features

The Carens adopts design cues from Kia's electric vehicle range, giving it a digital-inspired look. Inside, the cabin offers generous space for first- and second-row passengers, though third-row legroom is less ample. The top trims feature a 12.3-inch infotainment display and a 12-inch digital cluster, while the LS uses a 4.2-inch TFT LCD cluster. A two-tone steering wheel is standard, and the EX and above get a charging pad, Bluetooth, and USB ports. Multi-zone climate control is not available across the range.

Performance and Driving Impressions

The 1.5L turbo diesel engine delivers 85kW and 250Nm, providing adequate punch for daily driving, though it is not athletic. Initial driving impressions indicate a well-built MPV that feels steady at speed with no squeaks or rattles on rough surfaces. However, the steering response is tighter than ideal for urban use, and the suspension is firmer than expected. Kia claims average fuel consumption of 5.3L/100km, yielding a range of approximately 900km from the 45-litre fuel tank.

Safety and Warranty

All Carens models come standard with ABS brakes, stability control, and six airbags. Front park distance control and a reversing camera are fitted across the range, while the SX adds a surround-view monitor, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot view monitor, lane-keeping assist, and an electro-mechanical parking brake. Cruise control is available from the LX trim upward. The vehicle is backed by a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assistance, plus a three-year/45,000km service plan.

Kia's Broader South African Plans

The Carens launch is part of a six-model rollout Kia has planned for South Africa through the end of 2024. The Tasman bakkie debuted last month, and a new model is expected in June, with speculation pointing to the second-generation Seltos. Kia also confirmed it will introduce its first electric vehicle in the country later this year. The company stated that petrol options for the Carens could be offered if demand warrants, but for now the range remains exclusively diesel.

The bottom line

• Kia Carens returns to South Africa after 13 years as a seven-seater MPV with exclusive diesel power.
• Pricing starts at R399,995 and tops out at R599,995, with four trim levels available.
• The 1.5L turbo diesel engine produces 85kW and 250Nm, with claimed fuel consumption of 5.3L/100km.
• Cargo space ranges from 216 litres with all seats up to over 1,000 litres with rear rows folded.
• Safety features include six airbags, stability control, and advanced driver aids on the top SX model.
• Kia plans to launch six models in South Africa by end of 2024, including its first EV.