Kia Carens vs Toyota Innova Crysta For Families: Top Variant in Rs 18-20 Lakh Range

Written By: Kshitij Bisen
Published: April 24, 2024 at 12:15 AMUpdated: Updated: April 24, 2024 at 12:15 AM
 review

Family is an important factor when purchasing a vehicle. People consider only the best, or top family cars when deciding on which one to buy. Let’s look at the Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta to find out what makes them family-friendly car models in India, and which of their top-end variants will be the best for you.

In this article, we will share

  • What family-focused buyers look for in a car
  • Kia Carens vs Toyota Innova Crysta – a detailed analysis of their features, space, and safety
  • How to pick the right car for you

So, are these perfect cars for a small family, or can they accommodate large families, too? And which of these is the right car for a family man? Read on.

What a Family-focused car buyer looks for in a car

Here’s what a family-focused buyer should look for in car:

  • Safety – A car must have essential safety features, and a good safety rating
  • Space and comfort – The car must have ample space to accommodate all family members, and must include convenience features like rear AC vents
  • Ride and handling – The car’s ride and handling need to be good so that journeys are not only smooth, but also less tiresome

Family-focused car buyers prioritize safety, comfort, and practicality when choosing a vehicle. They look for cars with ample seating space, a spacious boot for luggage, and a smooth ride quality. Safety features like airbags, ABS, and stability control are crucial.

Comfort features such as rear AC vents, a premium audio system, and a user-friendly infotainment system are also important. Family-focused buyers prefer cars with good fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs. They value reliability and a strong brand reputation. Ultimately, they seek a car that offers a balance of safety, comfort, and value for their family’s needs.

Why Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta are popular

The Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta have gained popularity among family-focused car buyers due to their impressive blend of safety, comfort, and practicality. Both MPVs offer spacious cabins with ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for all passengers. The Carens and Innova Crysta also boast a large boot capacity, making them ideal for family trips and grocery runs.

Safety is a top priority for both MPVs. The Innova Crysta has a 5-star GNCAP rating, while the Carens has a 3-star rating. Both vehicles come equipped with essential safety features like airbags, ABS, and hill-hold assist. The Carens also offers electronic stability control (ESC) in higher variants, providing added peace of mind for family-focused buyers.

In terms of comfort, both MPVs offer a smooth and stable ride, thanks to their well-tuned suspension systems. The Carens and Innova Crysta feature rear AC vents, ensuring that all passengers stay comfortable even on long journeys. The Carens’ higher variants come with a premium Bose audio system, while the Innova Crysta offers a user-friendly infotainment system with navigation in select variants.

Family-focused buyers also appreciate the fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs of these MPVs. The Carens offers a range of petrol and diesel engine options, while the Innova Crysta comes with a reliable and efficient diesel engine. Both Kia and Toyota have a strong brand reputation and extensive service networks, providing peace of mind for family-focused buyers.

Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta variants shortlist in Rs 18-20 lakh range

For Toyota Innova Crysta, we have:

VariantPrice (INR) as on 23 April 2024
2.4 GX 7 STR₹1,999,900
2.4 GX 8 STR₹1,999,900

For Kia Carens, we have:

VariantPrice (INR) as on 23 April 2024
Luxury Plus DCT₹1,860,000
X-Line DCT 6 STR₹1,895,000
Luxury Plus Diesel AT₹1,895,000

Toyota Innova Crysta 2.4 GX 7 STR

This variant offers a spacious 7-seater configuration with captain seats in the second row. It comes with essential features like power windows, rear AC vents, and a glove box cooler. The 2.4L diesel engine delivers a robust performance, making it a practical choice for family-focused buyers who prioritize space and reliability.

Toyota Innova Crysta 2.4 GX 8 STR

The GX 8 STR variant offers a more versatile 8-seater configuration, making it ideal for larger families. It shares the same features and engine as the GX 7 STR variant, providing a comfortable and efficient ride for all passengers. If you enjoy long drives, you can read our comparison of the Innova Crysta with Mahindra Scorpio-N.

Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT

Powered by a 1.5L turbo petrol engine and a 7-speed DCT transmission, this variant offers a perfect blend of performance and comfort. The Bose audio system, 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and ventilated seats create a premium and enjoyable in-cabin experience for the family. If you’re a gadget lover, you can check out our comparison of the Carens with Toyota Rumion.

Kia Carens X-Line DCT 6 STR

This variant combines the performance of the 1.5L turbo petrol engine and 7-speed DCT transmission with a sporty and stylish exterior. The 6-seater configuration with captain seats in the second row offers added comfort and convenience for family-focused buyers. If you’re a performance enthusiast, you can check out our comparison of the Carens with Kia Seltos 2023 and Hyundai Creta 2024.

Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT

This variant is an excellent choice for family-focused buyers who prefer a diesel engine. It is powered by a 1.5L diesel engine, producing 114.41 BHP and 250 Nm of torque. The 6-speed automatic transmission offers smooth and efficient performance, while the premium features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Bose audio system enhance the overall experience.

Our Pick for the Best variant among Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta for Family buyers

After carefully analyzing the shortlisted variants, we recommend the Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT as the best option for family-focused car buyers. This variant offers an excellent balance of comfort, safety, and features, making it an ideal choice for families.

The Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT is powered by a 1.5L diesel engine that delivers a healthy 114.41 BHP and 250 Nm of torque. The engine’s linear power delivery and minimal turbo lag ensure a smooth and effortless driving experience. The 6-speed automatic transmission offers seamless gear changes, making it easy to navigate city traffic and tackle highway cruising with ease.

In terms of comfort, the Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT excels with its spacious and well-appointed cabin. The MPV offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The rear AC vents and automatic climate control further enhance the cabin’s comfort. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with a Bose audio system keeps the family entertained and engaged during trips.

Safety is a top priority for family-focused buyers, and the Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT delivers in this aspect. It comes equipped with 6 airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and a host of other safety features. The MPV’s stable high-speed performance and moderate body roll instill confidence in the driver and ensure a safe ride for the family.

The Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT also offers a range of premium features that elevate the overall ownership experience. The wireless charging, ventilated seats, and sunroof add convenience and luxury to the cabin. The MPV’s striking and futuristic design, combined with its metallic paint finish and good fit and finish, make it a stylish choice for modern families.

Considering its comprehensive package of comfort, safety, and features, the Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT emerges as the best variant among the Kia Carens and Toyota Innova Crysta for family-focused car buyers.

The Top 3 choices

  1. Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT
  2. Toyota Innova Crysta 2.4 GX 8 STR
  3. Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT
AttributesKia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel ATToyota Innova Crysta 2.4 GX 8 STRKia Carens Luxury Plus DCT
Touchscreen NavigationYesYesYes
Rear Parking CameraYesNoYes
Knee/curtain airbagsYesYesYes
Glove box coolingNoYesNo
Internet ConnectivityNoNoNo
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYesYes
Ventilated seatsYesNoYes
Sunroof (panoramic, standard)YesNoYes
Wireless chargingYesNoYes

How to Pick the Right Car for You

  • The Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT stands out for its spacious and comfortable cabin, offering ample room for families. The 1.5L diesel engine delivers a smooth and efficient performance, while the 6-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear changes. The MPV’s premium features, such as the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bose audio system, and ventilated seats, provide a luxurious and enjoyable experience for all passengers.
  • The Toyota Innova Crysta 2.4 GX 8 STR is a close second, with its versatile 8-seater configuration and reliable performance. The 2.4L diesel engine offers ample power and torque, making it suitable for long family trips. The Innova Crysta’s spacious cabin, combined with essential features like rear AC vents and a glove box cooler, ensures a comfortable ride for all passengers.
  • The Kia Carens Luxury Plus DCT is another excellent option, powered by a 1.5L turbo petrol engine and a 7-speed DCT transmission. The MPV’s quick acceleration and smooth gear changes provide an engaging driving experience. The Carens Luxury Plus DCT offers a range of premium features, such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a Bose audio system, and ventilated seats, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining ride for the family.

All three variants offer a comprehensive package of safety features, including multiple airbags, ABS, and hill-hold assist. They also provide a range of comfort and convenience features, such as rear AC vents, touchscreen infotainment systems, and power-adjustable seats. The final decision will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the individual family, but these three variants offer a compelling blend of comfort, safety, and features that cater to the needs of family-focused car buyers.

If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.