Kia has officially unveiled the 2025 Carens Clavis, a premium iteration of the popular Carens MPV. Slated to launch in India on May 23, 2025, the Clavis introduces a refined styling approach, additional features, and three engine options. However, one specific limitation stands out—the diesel-automatic combination is available only in a single mid-level HTK Plus variant.
If you’re eyeing a diesel-automatic Carens Clavis, your choices are limited. This article provides an in-depth look at what the HTK Plus diesel-automatic offers, what it lacks, and how it compares to other variants and rivals in the segment.

Kia Carens Clavis: Variant Breakdown
The 2025 Kia Carens Clavis is offered in seven main trims:
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HTE
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HTE (O)
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HTK
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HTK Plus
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HTK Plus (O)
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HTX
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HTX Plus
Among these, only the HTK Plus gets the diesel-automatic transmission option, restricting feature and configuration flexibility for diesel-auto buyers.
What the HTK Plus Diesel-Automatic Offers
Exterior Features
Despite being a mid-spec trim, the HTK Plus comes with a respectable set of exterior features, including:
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Halogen headlamps with LED DRLs
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Connected LED tail-lamps
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Electrically foldable and adjustable ORVMs with integrated turn signals
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16-inch stylized steel wheels
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Rear wiper, washer, and defogger
Interior Highlights
The cabin of the Clavis HTK Plus maintains a premium dual-tone black and beige theme, along with:
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Semi-leatherette seat upholstery
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60:40 split foldable and reclining second-row seats
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Reclinable third-row seats
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Second and third-row AC vents
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Sunshades for rear passengers
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Rear seatback pockets
These features aim to balance comfort and functionality, particularly for larger families.
Infotainment and Convenience
For tech-savvy users, the HTK Plus doesn’t disappoint:
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8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
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4.2-inch semi-digital MID
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Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
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Keyless entry with push-button start/stop
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Cruise control
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Remote engine start
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Drive modes
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Power windows with one-touch auto up/down (driver)
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6-speaker audio system
Safety Features
Kia ensures that the HTK Plus variant prioritizes safety with:
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6 airbags
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Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
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Hill-start assist and hill descent control
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ISOFIX child seat mounts
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Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
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All-wheel disc brakes
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Rearview camera
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Electronic parking brake with auto-hold
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3-point seat belts for all occupants
What the HTK Plus Diesel-Automatic Misses
While it includes many essentials, it lacks some premium features offered in higher trims like HTK Plus (O), HTX, and HTX Plus.
Exterior Omissions
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LED headlamps
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17-inch alloy wheels
Interior and Tech Exclusions
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64-color ambient lighting
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Full leatherette upholstery
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Dual 12.3-inch digital displays (infotainment + instrument cluster)
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Ventilated front seats
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4-way power-adjustable driver’s seat
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Wireless phone charging
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Panoramic sunroof
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Connected car technology
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Retractable tray tables with cupholders
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Paddle shifters
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8-speaker premium Bose sound system
Missing Advanced Safety Features
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360-degree camera
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Blind-view monitor
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Level-2 ADAS features
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Dual-camera dashcam
Engine and Transmission Options
The Kia Carens Clavis offers three engine options, giving customers a range of performance choices.
Engine Type | Power | Torque | Transmission Options |
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1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol | 115 PS | 144 Nm | 6-speed Manual |
1.5L Turbo-Petrol | 160 PS | 253 Nm | 6-speed Manual, 6-speed iMT*, 7-speed DCT^ |
1.5L Diesel | 116 PS | 250 Nm | 6-speed Manual, 6-speed Automatic |
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iMT = Clutchless Manual Transmission
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^DCT = Dual-Clutch Transmission
The HTK Plus diesel-automatic is not the only diesel variant—it also comes with a manual transmission. Meanwhile, those wanting more features alongside an automatic gearbox can explore turbo-petrol variants.
Expected Price and Market Positioning
The 2025 Kia Carens Clavis is set to launch on May 23, 2025, with prices likely starting at Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom). The HTK Plus diesel-auto variant will be competitively priced in the mid-range.
Rivals in the Market
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Maruti Suzuki Ertiga
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Maruti XL6
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Toyota Rumion
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Toyota Innova Crysta (as a premium alternative)
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Maruti Invicto
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Toyota Innova Hycross
While the Clavis targets the mid-size MPV segment, it positions itself as a feature-rich, premium-yet-affordable option.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: When will the 2025 Kia Carens Clavis launch in India?
A: The Kia Carens Clavis will be officially launched in India on May 23, 2025.
Q2: Which variant of the Carens Clavis offers diesel-automatic transmission?
A: Only the HTK Plus variant offers the diesel-automatic option.
Q3: What safety features are available in the Carens Clavis HTK Plus?
A: It includes six airbags, ESC, hill assist, TPMS, electronic parking brake, and rear camera, among others.
Q4: Does the HTK Plus variant come with a sunroof or LED headlamps?
A: No, it does not. Those features are reserved for higher variants like HTX and HTX Plus.
Q5: What are the engine options available in the Kia Carens Clavis?
A: The Clavis comes with 1.5L NA petrol, 1.5L turbo-petrol, and 1.5L diesel engines with various manual and automatic options.