Kia has officially revealed specifications for the CNG-powered Carens and Carens Clavis, confirming both MPVs will get a factory-fitted CNG kit. The announcement came alongside the Sorento launch, marking Kia’s long-awaited entry into India’s CNG segment. Both models will use a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a 60-litre CNG tank positioned under the boot floor. Kia is expected to reveal prices by the end of September or early October.
Engine & Performance
The CNG version of the 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine produces 93HP and 123NM of torque, a drop of 22HP and 21NM compared to the petrol-only counterpart. Kia has not confirmed an exact fuel efficiency figure yet, but the company estimates it will fall between 22-25KM/KG. Additionally, Kia states that the engine calibration avoids a heavy compromise on everyday performance despite the reduced output.
Boot Space & Chassis Changes
Boot space drops to 116 litres on the CNG models, down from 216 litres on the petrol versions, since the 60-litre tank sits under the boot floor. To compensate for the added weight, Kia has retuned the suspension and upgraded the front disc brakes. Despite these changes, both MPVs retain their underbody spare wheel, so practicality takes only a moderate hit.
Trim & Variant Details
Kia will offer the CNG kit on the HTE and HTE (O) trims of the Carens Clavis, while the older Carens gets it exclusively on the Premium trim. Both models will pair their CNG versions with 16-inch wheels only. Notably, the previous-generation Carens already had a CNG option, but that came strictly as a dealer-level fitment rather than a factory setup.
Prices In India
Kia has not announced prices for the CNG-equipped Carens and Carens Clavis yet. The company has confirmed that pricing will arrive by the end of September or early October. Once revealed, the CNG variants are expected to carry a premium over their equivalent petrol counterparts due to the added tank and retuned hardware.
Market Context
Kia’s CNG entry comes at a time when the fuel type has grown rapidly across India. CNG accounted for 22 percent of all passenger vehicle sales in FY2026, making it the second most popular fuel after petrol during the same period. Maruti Suzuki currently leads this space, followed by Tata Motors and Hyundai, while Renault and Nissan are also preparing factory-fitted CNG models soon.
Launch Summary
With the Carens and Carens Clavis, Kia finally enters India’s booming CNG segment through a factory-fitted solution rather than a dealer add-on. The setup brings a detuned 93HP engine, a 60-litre tank, retuned suspension and upgraded brakes, all while retaining the spare wheel. Prices arrive by early October, and Kia will look to challenge established players as CNG demand continues to rise across the country.
