2025 Kia Carens Launches on May 8: To Get ADAS And Design Refresh

Kia is set to unveil the updated 2025 Carens on 8th May, marking the first major update to the MPV since its debut in 2022. The refreshed Carens is expected to bring in smarter safety features, revised styling, and premium cabin upgrades—without straying from its core strength as a practical, family-oriented vehicle. This new version will be sold alongside the existing Carens, giving buyers more choice depending on their budget and feature requirements.

Price and Positioning: A Two-Pronged Strategy

Prices for the 2025 Carens are expected to start around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it slightly above the current lineup, which ranges from ₹10.45 lakh to ₹19.45 lakh. Kia’s move to offer both versions simultaneously allows it to cater to a wider set of buyers—from those eyeing the Maruti Ertiga and XL6, to customers comparing it with more premium rivals like the Hyundai Alcazar.

A Sharper Look with Subtle Updates

The refreshed Carens will adopt Kia’s latest global design language, making it look more modern without radically changing its silhouette. The front fascia will get a bolder update with vertically stacked LED headlamps and L-shaped daytime running lights, replacing the split-headlamp setup of the outgoing model. A revised bumper with diamond-pattern grilles and sleeker fog lamp housings will add to the visual appeal.

At the rear, connected LED tail lamps and a new chrome-accented bumper should lend to a more premium feel. New 16-inch alloy wheels could complete the exterior upgrade. These changes may not be dramatic, but they should do just enough to keep the Carens looking fresh in a segment that’s becoming increasingly design-conscious.

Inside the Cabin: Technology Meets Comfort

Step inside, and the updates will become more evident. The 2025 Carens is likely to come with dual 12.3-inch displays—one for infotainment, the other for the digital instrument cluster—similar to what we’ve seen in the new Seltos and Sonet. A panoramic sunroof, available for the first time on the Carens, should add an airy feel to the cabin.

Kia could also extended ventilated seats to the second row in top-end variants, improving comfort for family use. Rumours hint at rear-seat entertainment screens in the 6-seater configuration, though this hasn’t been officially confirmed. Existing strengths like the spacious third row and one-touch folding second-row seats will be retained, keeping the Carens’ practical focus intact.

ADAS Brings a Safety-First Approach

The biggest update is the introduction of Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), making the Carens the first MPV under ₹20 lakh to offer this technology. The suite includes forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. These features are bundled with six airbags and a 360-degree camera, raising the safety quotient significantly.

While not as refined as in more expensive cars, Kia’s ADAS suite represents a big step forward for the segment. It responds to a growing demand from Indian buyers for modern safety technology—even in mass-market cars.

Tried-and-Tested Engines To Continue

Mechanically, the 2025 Carens will continue with the same powertrains. Buyers can choose between:

• A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with 115 PS, aimed at budget-conscious users

• A 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 160 PS, mated to a smooth-shifting 7-speed DCT, suited for those who prioritise performance

• A 1.5-litre diesel engine with 116 PS, still a favourite among long-distance drivers for its efficiency and low-end torque

The turbo-petrol remains the most enjoyable to drive, while the diesel continues to be a practical choice for those clocking high kilometres.

Verdict: A Smart Evolution of a Segment Staple

With its 2025 refresh, the Kia Carens becomes even more relevant in a market that’s demanding more safety, more tech, and a little more style. The design changes keep it visually updated, the new features raise its appeal, and the addition of ADAS sets a new benchmark in the MPV segment.

The real test will be whether buyers are willing to pay a premium for these updates. But considering the Carens' strong track record for space, comfort, and feature-loaded value, the facelift could strengthen Kia’s grip on India’s affordable MPV market.