The Kia Carens III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2016, represented a significant step forward for the Korean automaker in the European and Asian MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) market. Offered between 2016 and 2019, the 2.0 GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) variant with a six-speed automatic transmission and seven-seat configuration was a mid-range offering, positioned above the base 1.6L models and below the diesel-powered options. This version aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for families seeking a versatile vehicle. The Carens III, built on the platform shared with the Hyundai i30 and Kia cee’d, sought to challenge established players like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso with its competitive pricing and generous standard equipment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Carens |
| Generation | Carens III (facelift 2016) |
| Type | 2.0 GDI (166 Hp) Automatic 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 166 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83 Hp/l |
| Torque | 213 Nm @ 4700 rpm (157.1 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | G4NC |
| Engine displacement | 1999 cm3 (121.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1469-1589 kg (3238.59 – 3503.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 611-731 kg (1347.02 – 1611.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 103 l (3.64 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1650 l (58.27 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4525 mm (178.15 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1563-1573 mm (61.54 – 61.93 in.) |
| Rear track | 1576-1586 mm (62.05 – 62.44 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 835 mm (32.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 284 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 91V; 225/45 R17 91V; 225/45 R18 95V |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 ET48.5; 7.0J x 17 ET50.5; 7.5J x 18 ET53.5 |
INTRODUCTION
The Kia Carens III facelift, launched in 2016, represented a mid-cycle refresh of the third-generation Carens, which debuted in 2013. This update brought revised styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features. The 2.0 GDI Automatic 7-seat model was a key variant, targeting families who needed space and practicality but didn’t necessarily require the higher running costs or complexity of a diesel engine. It slotted into the middle of the Carens range, offering a step up in performance from the 1.6L gasoline engines while remaining more affordable than the 1.7 CRDi diesel options. The facelifted Carens aimed to improve upon the original’s value proposition, offering a more refined and competitive package in the crowded MPV segment.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Carens variant is the Kia-Hyundai G4NC 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct injection (GDI) technology, which improves fuel efficiency and power output compared to traditional port fuel injection. The G4NC is an inline-four cylinder engine with a displacement of 1999cc, producing 166 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 213 Nm (157 lb-ft) of torque at 4700 rpm. The engine features a dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for improved performance and efficiency across the rev range. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission is a conventional torque converter automatic, known for its reliability and relatively smooth operation. While not the most technologically advanced transmission, it was well-suited to the engine’s characteristics and the intended use case of the vehicle.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 GDI automatic Carens offers a reasonably refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.3 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The automatic transmission is generally smooth, although it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration or when attempting to overtake. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and comfort rather than outright performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in ease of use, especially in urban traffic. Compared to the diesel variants, the 2.0 GDI offers a smoother, quieter engine note and a more linear power delivery, but lacks the low-end torque of the diesel engines. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well, making it suitable for long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 GDI Automatic 7-seat Carens typically came well-equipped, even in base trim. Standard features often included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. Safety features included ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags. The interior design was functional and practical, with a focus on durability and ease of use. The seven-seat configuration offered flexibility for families, although the third-row seats were best suited for children or shorter adults.
Chassis & Braking
The Carens III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The steering is electrically assisted, offering light and easy steering feel. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and agility. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Carens III facelift was generally well-received by critics, who praised its spacious interior, competitive pricing, and generous standard equipment. The 2.0 GDI Automatic variant was seen as a good all-rounder, offering a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Compared to the diesel models, the 2.0 GDI offered lower running costs in terms of fuel, but higher fuel consumption overall. The automatic transmission was also criticized by some for its lack of responsiveness. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Carens III facelift proved to be a popular choice for families seeking a versatile and affordable MPV.
Legacy
The Kia Carens III, including the 2.0 GDI Automatic variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The G4NC engine is known for its durability, and the six-speed automatic transmission is generally trouble-free. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and occasional problems with the infotainment system. However, these are typically minor and relatively inexpensive to repair. Today, the Carens III represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious and practical MPV at an affordable price. Its blend of practicality, reliability, and reasonable running costs continues to make it a popular choice in the used car market.
