Kia Carens, Carens Clavis to get factory-fitted CNG option: Know when you can buy one

Kia is set to introduce factory-fitted CNG versions of the Carens and Carens Clavis, with both MPVs getting a 60-litre tank, reduced boot space and prices expected by early October.Kia will soon enter India’s factory-fitted CNG passenger vehicle market with the Carens and Carens Clavis CNG. The company has confirmed key specifications for both MPVs and said their prices will be announced by the end of September or early October. The CNG versions were showcased alongside the India launch of the Kia Sorento.Both models will use a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated, four-cylinder petrol engine adapted to run on CNG. In this configuration, the engine develops 96hp and 123Nm. Kia is yet to announce the certified fuel-efficiency figure.60-litre CNG tank cuts boot spaceThe biggest mechanical change is the addition of a 60-litre CNG tank beneath the boot floor. This arrangement allows Kia to retain the spare wheel in its usual underbody location, but luggage capacity falls substantially. The CNG versions offer 116 litres of boot space, compared with 216 litres in the petrol-powered models.Kia has also made chassis-related changes to accommodate the additional weight. The suspension has been retuned, while the front disc brakes have been upgraded. Both CNG variants will run on 16-inch wheels. Carens Clavis CNG gets two variantsOn the Carens Clavis, the factory-fitted CNG system will be available with the HTE and HTE (O) variants. The older Carens, meanwhile, will get the CNG option exclusively with the Premium trim.The move also marks an important change for Kia’s existing MPV. While the Carens has previously been available with a CNG kit through dealer-level fitment, the upcoming version will be the company’s first passenger vehicle in India to receive a factory-fitted CNG system. Kia says the engine calibration has been carried out to minimise the impact on performance, while the revised suspension and braking hardware are intended to handle the added weight of the CNG system.With the Carens and Carens Clavis, Kia will enter a CNG market dominated by Maruti Suzuki, with Tata Motors and Hyundai also offering several factory-fitted CNG models. The company’s entry comes as CNG continues to gain popularity among Indian car buyers seeking lower running costs, particularly for vehicles used extensively in urban and intercity driving.Subscribe to Auto Today Magazine - EndsPublished On: Sep 4, 2026 17:49 IST