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Like the rest of the Kia range, the Carens is a very capable machine

Good stuff

Cheap, good looking, lots of space, and, err, cheap

Bad stuff

S-Max is the better drive, interior is drab, meek petrol version

Overview

What is it?

It’s an important milestone for Kia, that’s what. Yes, it’s a seven-seat MPV, but it’s also the last of the company’s range to benefit from Peter Schreyer’s now famous ‘Tiger-nose’ design philosophy. And as a result, doesn’t it look like a handsome thing? Sure, it’s no Ferrari 488, but it’s certainly better looking than before, making it less likely to be used as a projectile for bored millionaires.

Naturally, it’s grown in stature, but in a pleasing way: it’s lower, longer and narrower than before with lots of room to spare on the inside. Space in an MPV is considered a good trait, we think.

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Our choice from the range

What's the verdict?

It’s handsome, well-built and pleasant, with Kia’s monster warranty an added draw.

The Rivals

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