Kia India has officially introduced the Carens Clavis, a more premium offering positioned above the regular Carens — much like how the Maruti XL6 serves as a more upmarket version of the Ertiga. With prices ranging from ₹11.50 lakh to ₹21.50 lakh (ex-showroom), the Clavis brings more features, engine choices, and cabin flexibility. But how does it stack up against key rivals like the Maruti Ertiga, Toyota Rumion, and Maruti XL6 in terms of value and performance?
Price Comparison: Entry to Top-End Variants
| Model | Starting Price | Top Variant Price |
|---|---|---|
| Maruti Ertiga | ₹8.96 lakh | ₹13.25 lakh |
| Toyota Rumion | ₹10.54 lakh | ₹13.73 lakh |
| Kia Carens | ₹11.41 lakh | ₹18.94 lakh |
| Kia Clavis | ₹11.50 lakh | ₹21.50 lakh |
| Maruti XL6 | ₹11.83 lakh | ₹14.93 lakh |
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Most Affordable: The Ertiga is the most budget-friendly petrol and CNG MPV on this list, followed by the Rumion.
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Most Premium: The Clavis commands the highest top-end price, thanks to its broader engine options and tech-laden trims.
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6-Seater vs 7-Seater: The XL6, offered only as a 6-seater with captain seats, is priced lower than the Clavis but lacks the Clavis’ versatility, which includes both 6- and 7-seat layouts.
CNG-Friendly or Performance-Oriented?
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If CNG efficiency is your priority, the Ertiga remains the most cost-effective, starting at around ₹11 lakh.
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On the performance front, the Clavis turbo-petrol DCT stands out, starting at ₹16.90 lakh, delivering spirited driving and smooth gear shifts.
Powertrain Comparison: Kia vs Japanese Trio
| MPV | Engine Options | Max Power (hp) | Max Torque (Nm) | Gearbox Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clavis | 1.5 NA petrol / 1.5 turbo-petrol / 1.5 diesel | 115 / 160 / 116 | 144 / 253 / 250 | 6MT, iMT, 7DCT, 6AT |
| Carens | 1.5 petrol / 1.5 diesel | 115 / 116 | 144 / 250 | 6MT, 6AT |
| XL6 | 1.5 petrol / 1.5 CNG | 103 / 88 (CNG mode) | 137 / 121 (CNG mode) | 5MT, 6AT (Petrol) / 5MT (CNG) |
| Ertiga | 1.5 petrol / 1.5 CNG | 103 / 88 | 137 / 121 | 5MT, 6AT (Petrol) / 5MT (CNG) |
| Rumion | 1.5 petrol / 1.5 CNG | 103 / 88 | 137 / 121 | 5MT, 6AT (Petrol) / 5MT (CNG) |
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Diesel Option: Only Kia offers diesel across the Carens and Clavis models — an advantage for long-distance users.
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Highest Output: The Clavis’ turbo-petrol delivers a segment-leading 160 hp and 253 Nm, making it the most powerful among its peers.
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Transmission Variety: The Clavis also offers the most gearbox options, including a 7-speed DCT and iMT, giving buyers more flexibility.
Fuel Efficiency & Tank Capacity
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Fuel Tank Size: All models offer a 45-litre tank for petrol and diesel; CNG variants use 60-litre water-equivalent tanks.
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Efficiency Leaders: The CNG variants of the Ertiga, Rumion, and XL6 claim up to 26.32 km/kg, significantly higher than the Clavis diesel’s 19.54 km/l.
Verdict: Which MPV for Whom?
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Budget-Conscious Families: The Ertiga and Rumion make the most sense, offering 7 seats, CNG options, and low entry prices.
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Feature-Rich Comfort Seekers: The XL6 offers plush captain seats and a premium feel at a competitive price.
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Performance and Versatility Enthusiasts: The Kia Clavis is the clear winner in terms of powertrain diversity, tech, and seating flexibility — ideal for those who want more than just utility in an MPV.
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