Kia India has released the first teaser of its upcoming MPV, the Clavis, offering a glimpse into what’s expected to be a more premium version of the Carens. With its launch scheduled for May 8, the Clavis is set to bring in fresh styling and new features while retaining the familiar underpinnings of its sibling.
Design
From the teaser, it’s clear that Kia has given the Clavis a more upmarket and distinctive look. Up front, the MPV gets a redesigned fascia with sharper LED Daytime Running Lights that follow Kia’s latest design philosophy. These lights are sleeker and more futuristic, setting a bold tone for the vehicle.
Adding to this is a set of uniquely styled LED headlamps featuring a triple-pod setup, something we haven’t seen on the Carens. These subtle but noticeable changes suggest a clear intention to make the Clavis stand apart visually and appeal to buyers looking for a more premium presence on the road.
Expect new bumpers at both ends and fresh alloy wheel designs, which further hint at its upscale positioning. While the teaser doesn’t show the full car, the design cues point toward a modern, sophisticated MPV that doesn’t stray too far from Kia’s core identity.
Features
One key highlight in the teaser is a peek at a digital instrument cluster. This could mean that the Clavis will come equipped with more advanced features, including a potential ADAS suite (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). If true, this would place the Clavis among the very few MPVs in India offering such modern driver aids.
ADAS features like lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot detection could be on the cards — a major selling point for families prioritising safety and convenience.
Powertrain
Despite its cosmetic and tech upgrades, the Clavis is expected to retain the engine and transmission lineup from the current Carens. This includes:
- 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol
- 1.5-litre turbo-petrol
- 1.5-litre diesel
These engines are likely to be offered with the same mix of manual, iMT, and automatic transmission options. While this may seem like a missed opportunity for performance upgrades, it ensures proven reliability and keeps running costs in check.
Positioning
Kia has made it clear that the Clavis will not replace the Carens. Instead, it will be positioned above it in the lineup. This is a smart move that allows the brand to cater to two distinct customer groups — one that values value-for-money practicality (Carens) and another that’s willing to pay more for premium looks and added tech (Clavis).
With this approach, Kia can expand its MPV portfolio without cannibalising existing sales, giving buyers more choice within the same segment.
Expectations
More details about the Clavis will likely be revealed closer to the May 8 launch, but here’s a quick summary of what to expect so far:
| Feature | Kia Carens | Kia Clavis (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| LED DRLs | Standard | Redesigned Signature Design |
| Headlamp Design | Dual-Pod | Triple-Pod LED |
| Instrument Cluster | Analog/Digital Combo | Fully Digital (Teased) |
| ADAS Suite | Not Available | Likely Included |
| Alloy Wheels | Standard Design | New Premium Design |
| Powertrain | Petrol/Diesel Options | Same as Carens |
| Launch Date | Already on sale | 8 May 2025 |
The Clavis seems to be shaping up as a smart evolution of the Carens — one that looks sharper, feels more modern, and adds an extra layer of tech and safety. With the MPV market heating up in India, Kia’s latest move could further strengthen its position among family-focused buyers.
FAQs
What is the Kia Clavis?
It’s a premium MPV based on the Kia Carens platform.
When is Kia Clavis launching?
The Clavis will be launched on 8 May 2025.
Will Clavis have ADAS?
It is expected to feature an ADAS safety suite.
What engines will the Clavis use?
Same engines as the Carens – petrol and diesel.
Is Clavis replacing the Carens?
No, it will be sold alongside and positioned above the Carens.
