New Kia Carens arrives next week

The new 2013 Kia Carens will arrive in Irish showrooms next week.

Powered by the economical 1.7D engine that powers its Sportage stable mate, the Carens comes in a choice of three trim levels, TX, EX and Platinum, with a starting price of €26,490 and has an annual road tax of €270.

Standard equipment for the entry level model includes alloy wheels, rear spoiler, LED daytime running lights, cornering lights, front and rear electric windows, luggage cargo screen, remote audio controls and voice activated Bluetooth.

The EX model, priced at €27,790, adds auto light controls, LED rear lights, rear privacy glass, folding mirrors with puddle lamps, seat back tables, dual zone air conditioning, rear parking sensors and rear view camera. The top of the range Platinum, at €31,790, adds luxury features like leather upholstery with heated front seats, 10-way power driver's seat, a panoramic sunroof, HID type lights, front parking sensors and a supervision instrument cluster.

The new car is shorter, narrower and lower than the previous generation model, but still comes with generous cabin space due to the new mode's increased wheelbase and cab-forward design which places the base of the A-pillar above the front wheel centre line.

All models come with six airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management and Emergency Stop Signal. Kia expect the new Carens to earn a top 5-Star rating in Euro NCAP crash safety tests.