| Overall Rating |
 |
| Description |
| Not recommended. Another unmemorable mini-MPV, the Carens offers reasonable space but lacks much in the way of versatility. Solidly constructed but completely unmemorable. |
| Handling |
|
| Comfort |
|
| Quality & Reliability |
 |
| Performance |
|
| Roominess |
|
| Running Costs |
 |
| Value for Money |
|
| Stereo/Sat Nav |
 |
| Best Models |
| 1.8SE is the least bad, rather than the best |
| Worst Models |
| All others |
| Replacement |
| 2007 |
|
 |
| Road Test |
| Kia's big problem is the number of talented compact people-carriers on the market, a fact which serves to make its insipid offering appear even more dull and unattractive. The cabin is spacious and light, but the interior plastics and trim feel very low quality. Dynamic prowess doesn't feature on the menu, the Carens suffering from a sometimes lumpy ride and poor cornering. 1.6 petrol engine offers a reasonable performance, although fuel consumption is some way off class standards. The diesel engine is loud but effective. Pricing undercuts mainstream compact MPV rivals but it's hard not to conclude that even the European 'people vans' (such as the Citroen Berlingo) offer a better deal. |
| Positive Points |
- Cheap for its size, especially when bought used
- Lots of equipment for the money
- Smooth ride, spacious interior
|
| Negative Points |
- Bland looks, cheap interior finish
- Heavier depreciation than most family MPVs
- Refinement deteriorates rapidly at speed
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