Kia Carens, Carens Clavis CNG pre-bookings open: Prices to be announced soon

Kia has opened pre-bookings for the Carens and Carens Clavis CNG, its first factory-fitted CNG models, with prices set to be announced by early October.

Kia India has opened pre-bookings for the Carens CNG and Carens Clavis CNG, marking the first time the Korean carmaker will offer a factory-fitted CNG powertrain in its India lineup. Prices for both MPVs are expected to be announced by the end of September or early October 2026.

The CNG versions of the two MPVs were showcased alongside the India launch of the Kia Sorento. While the older Carens was previously available with a CNG kit, it was offered through dealer-level fitment. The upcoming models will get a factory-fitted CNG system.

Kia Carens, Carens Clavis CNG: Engine and specifications

Both the Carens and Carens Clavis CNG will be powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine adapted to run on CNG. In CNG mode, the engine produces 96hp and 123Nm of torque. Kia is yet to reveal the certified fuel-efficiency figure for the CNG versions.

Compared with the petrol-powered version, the CNG setup results in a reduction in power, while torque output is lower as well. Kia says the engine has received CNG-specific calibration to minimise the impact on performance.

The MPVs also get a dedicated fuel-change switch, along with revisions to the suspension and front disc brakes to account for the additional weight of the CNG system. Both CNG variants will run on 16-inch wheels.

60-litre CNG tank reduces boot space

The biggest change to the Carens and Carens Clavis CNG is the addition of a 60-litre CNG tank beneath the boot floor. The placement allows Kia to retain the spare wheel in its usual underbody position, but results in a significant reduction in luggage capacity.

With all three rows in use, the CNG versions offer 116 litres of boot space, compared with 216 litres in their petrol-powered counterparts.

Kia has also modified the third-row seat-back frame, allowing for a better recline angle and improved passenger comfort. The suspension has been retuned and the front disc brakes upgraded to handle the added weight of the CNG hardware.

Kia Carens Clavis CNG gets two variants

The factory-fitted CNG system will be available on the Carens Clavis in the HTE and HTE (O) variants. The older Carens will get the CNG option exclusively with the Premium trim.

Kia's entry into the factory-fitted CNG passenger vehicle market comes at a time when CNG models are gaining popularity in India, particularly among buyers looking for lower running costs. The segment is currently dominated by Maruti Suzuki, while Tata Motors and Hyundai also offer factory-fitted CNG options.

With the Carens and Carens Clavis CNG, Kia will now offer buyers a factory-backed alternative to the petrol versions, with pre-bookings already underway and prices set to be revealed shortly.

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