What does it cost?
For Although this is the cheapest trim level, it still has air-conditioning, alloy wheels and the full safety specification.
Against There's no seven-seat option with this petrol engine. This trim is also the only one without remote central locking or an alarm.
What Car? says
The low price is attractive, but we think it's worth spending the extra on a diesel-engined model.
What Car? readers say
3.625
View the whole Kia Carens MPV range
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
Owning a Kia Carens should be a painless experience, thanks to the seven-year warranty that comes with every car. However, the results of the JD Power Customer Satisfaction Survey show up a number of problems with the old model.
The range is relatively straightforward, with just one petrol and one diesel engine. We’d take the diesel, for its superior economy and stronger performance when fully loaded. That said, the petrol is cheaper to buy and copes well enough around town.
Entry-level 1 trim is five-seat-only and comes with a modest list of standard kit, although at least you do get air-conditioning. It’s only available as a five-seater, whereas the more expensive 2 and 3 models can be bought with seven seats. We’d go for the 2 in preference to the pricier 3 to make the most of the Carens’ fine value for money.
Reader test team says:
Kia Carens MPV 2.0i GS 5st 5dr
6 months ago I started a new job. I was informed a hire car would arrive... My heart sank, not a Passatt, not an Insignia, not even a poxy Astra, but…
4
out of 5 stars
Kia Carens MPV 2.0i GS 5st 5dr
We have had our Carens now for 6 months, and couldn’t be happier with it. Despite what some "knowledgable" reviewers may tell you, the ride and…
5
out of 5 stars
Kia Carens MPV 2.0 CRDi LS 7st 5dr
I have now owned this car for a month, having previously owned an 03 Sedona Auto which we only ever had one problem with in 5 years but we decided the…
3
out of 5 stars
Kia Carens MPV 2.0 CRDi GS 7st 5dr
I collected this car new on 26/1/08 and have been completely delighted with it so far. It handles well, has tons of room and many interior extras.…
5
out of 5 stars
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Our pick of the range
Kia Carens MPV 1.6 CRDi 1 (5 seat) 5dr
It's dearer than the equivalent petrol-engined model, but worth the extra. And, as the cheapest diesel model, it's our favourite Carens.
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