Kia Carens wagon gets petrol power and competitive pricing

Kia has re-launched the multi-purpose Carens as a spacious station wagon, featuring a powerful 2-litre petrol engine and very competitive pricing - $4000 lower than the previous diesel 7-seat model.

The move has been prompted by strong demand for traditional 5-seater wagons in the mid-size segment and Kia Motors believes the new Carens Wagon is set to score with New Zealand buyers by providing the largest cargo carrying ability in its class.

With the rear seats folded, the new Carens Wagon offers an impressive 2105 litres of space, thanks to its tall cabin, which makes it capable of swallowing tall and bulky objects that would be difficult or even impossible to fit inside competing vehicles.

And by matching the extra cargo space with the strong performing 106kW 2-litre petrol engine and sequential shift automatic transmission, while most others in its class are powered by smaller engines, the Kia Carens Wagon further increases its appeal to both private buyers and fleet customers.

'Station wagons have always been popular in New Zealand, but there has been a noticeable trend towards mid-size models, so we have tailored Carens to suit the requirements of people looking for a spacious yet still-compact wagon,' says Todd McDonald, General Manager, Kia Motors New Zealand.

'There is also a strong preference among buyers of mid-size station wagons for petrol power and the 2-litre engine/auto transmission package we have selected for the Carens Wagon has been well proven in the Magentis range.'

In addition to providing good all-round performance, the 2-litre engine is economical and in the Carens Wagon it is rated to deliver 8.6L/100km average fuel consumption, assisted by the fitment of low rolling resistant Michelin tyres.

Like all Kia models, the Carens Wagon is very well equipped with safety and convenience features, including ESP electronic stability programme with ABS anti-lock brakes, as well as front, side and curtain airbags and active front seat head restraints to prevent whiplash.

Also standard is front and rear fog lamps, power/heated door mirrors, heated front seats, air conditioning, MP3 compatible sound system, remote locking with an anti-theft alarm, power windows with driver's auto down, rear centre arm-rest, 60/40 split rear seats, retractable bag hook and a luggage net to keep items from sliding around in the cargo area.

The new Kia Carens Wagon goes on sale in New Zealand this month (March) at an RRP of $35,990, which includes Kia's 5-year/100,000km warranty programme, all on road costs, such as fuel, Warrant of Fitness and registration, plus a free tank of fuel, the first 1500km service and 24-hour emergency roadside assistance.

by Kia