2025 Kia Carens Clavis vs Maruti XL6

If you’re in the market for a premium MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) in 2025, two standout options are the Kia Carens Clavis and the Maruti Suzuki XL6. Both aim to deliver practicality, comfort, and value for Indian families. However, these two MPVs take different approaches when it comes to design, features, engine options, technology, and pricing. In this detailed comparison, we’ll explore how the Kia Carens Clavis stacks up against the Maruti XL6 to help you decide which premium MPV best suits your needs.

2025 Kia Carens Clavis vs Maruti XL6: Price Comparison

Dimensions: Size and Road Presence

Powertrain Options: Versatility vs Efficiency

Kia Carens Clavis:

• 1.5L Turbo-Petrol: 160 PS, 253 Nm (6MT, iMT, 7DCT)

• 1.5L Diesel: 116 PS, 250 Nm (6MT, 6AT)

• 1.5L NA Petrol: 115 PS, 144 Nm (6MT only)

Maruti XL6:

• 1.5L NA Petrol: 103 PS, 136 Nm (5MT, 6AT)

• 1.5L Petrol + CNG: 88 PS, 121.5 Nm (5MT)

Verdict: The Carens Clavis clearly wins in powertrain diversity, offering both turbo-petrol and diesel options, which are absent in the XL6. However, the XL6 holds its ground with a fuel-efficient CNG option and a tried-and-tested petrol engine with automatic transmission.

Features and Technology: Modern Meets Practical

Interior Features

Kia Carens Clavis:

• Dual-tone beige & navy blue cabin (black in lower trims)

• Dual 12.3-inch digital driver display and infotainment

• Bose 8-speaker sound system

• 64-color ambient lighting

• Panoramic sunroof (except diesel)

• Retractable seatback tables

• Ventilated front seats

• Electrically adjustable driver’s seat

• 6- and 7-seater configurations

Maruti XL6:

• Black theme with faux wood accents

• 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay

• Arkamys 6-speaker sound system

• Captain seats in the second row (standard)

• Manual driver’s seat

• Footwell lighting

Verdict: The Clavis outshines with premium features like a panoramic sunroof, dual 12.3-inch displays, Bose audio, ambient lighting, and powered front seats. However, the XL6 keeps things practical and functional with wireless smartphone integration and a clean dashboard layout.

Safety Comparison: Next-Gen vs Conventional

Kia Carens Clavis Safety Highlights:

• 6 airbags (standard)

• Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

• 360-degree camera with blind-spot monitoring

• Front & rear parking sensors

• Electronic stability control (ESC)

• Electronic parking brake with auto-hold

• Dual-camera dashcam

• Disc brakes on all four wheels

Maruti XL6 Safety Highlights:

• 4 airbags (2 standard)

• Rear parking sensors

• ESC and hill hold assist

• 360-degree camera

• TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)

Verdict: The Clavis scores high on safety with advanced driver aids and comprehensive sensor coverage, making it a future-ready MPV. The XL6 covers the basics, but falls short in terms of modern active safety tech.

Infotainment and Connectivity

• Clavis: 12.3-inch touchscreen (lower trims get 8-inch), wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (wireless in lower variants)

• XL6: 7-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Verdict: While the XL6 offers wireless connectivity out of the box, the Clavis delivers a more immersive tech experience with its large display and superior audio setup.

Mileage and Fuel Efficiency

• XL6 CNG Mileage (claimed): 26.32 km/kg

• Clavis Diesel Mileage (estimated): ~20-21 km/l (based on typical diesel figures)

• XL6 Petrol Mileage (claimed): ~20.97 km/l (AT), ~21.4 km/l (MT)

Verdict: The XL6 is the better choice if fuel economy, especially with CNG, is a top priority. The Clavis, while offering diesel, prioritizes performance and features over economy.

Which MPV Should You Buy in 2025?

• Buy the Kia Carens Clavis if:
  You want a premium, future-ready MPV with cutting-edge tech, safety features, multiple engine choices (turbo-petrol and diesel), and an upscale cabin. Perfect for those prioritizing luxury, performance, and safety.

• Buy the Maruti XL6 if:
  You need a dependable, value-for-money family MPV with CNG efficiency, decent features, and a significantly lower price. Ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want practicality over luxury.

FAQs:

Q1: Which MPV offers better engine options – Kia Carens Clavis or Maruti XL6?

A: The Kia Carens Clavis offers better engine diversity, including turbo-petrol and diesel engines, whereas the Maruti XL6 offers only petrol and CNG options.

Q2: Does the Kia Carens Clavis have a CNG option like the XL6?

A: No, the Carens Clavis does not offer a CNG variant. Only the Maruti XL6 comes with a petrol-CNG dual fuel option.

Q3: Which MPV is better for safety?

A: The Kia Carens Clavis is safer with 6 airbags, ADAS, 360-degree camera with blind-spot monitoring, and disc brakes on all four wheels.

Q4: Is the Maruti XL6 more fuel efficient?

A: Yes, especially in its CNG version, the XL6 offers superior fuel economy at a claimed 26.32 km/kg.

Q5: Which MPV offers better value for money?

A: The XL6 offers excellent value with its lower pricing, while the Carens Clavis offers more premium features for those willing to spend more.