Tech Desk: Kia has officially plunged into India’s booming CNG segment, announcing the factory-fitted CNG specifications for its popular Carens and Carens Clavis MPVs. This long-awaited move marks Kia’s strategic entry into a market where CNG vehicles are rapidly gaining traction, accounting for 22% of passenger vehicle sales last fiscal year.

Both the Carens and Carens Clavis will feature a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine paired with a 60-litre CNG tank cleverly tucked under the boot floor. While the CNG spec engine produces 93hp and 123Nm of torque – a slight reduction from its petrol counterpart – Kia assures drivers that performance compromise will be minimal. Fuel efficiency is estimated to be a competitive 22-25km/kg, offering significant savings for buyers.

A key detail for potential owners is the boot space, which adjusts to 116 litres with the CNG tank, down from 216 litres in the petrol versions. To compensate for the added weight, Kia has meticulously retuned the suspension and upgraded the front disc brakes, ensuring safety and optimal driving dynamics. Importantly, the underbody spare wheel remains accessible.

The CNG kit will be available on the HTE and HTE (O) trims for the Carens Clavis, and on the Premium trim for the older Carens, both exclusively with 16-inch wheels. With prices expected by late September or early October, Kia is set to challenge market leaders like Maruti Suzuki and Tata Motors in India’s vibrant CNG landscape.