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KIA Clavis MPV Review: What Makes This New Family Ride Stand Out in 2025

The KIA Clavis MPV takes the familiar practicality of the KIA Carens and raises the bar with a more premium feel and upgraded tech. It’s designed for families who want comfort, space, and smart features all in one stylish package. With seven seats, advanced safety systems, and a refreshed SUV-inspired look, the Clavis fits perfectly between an MPV and an SUV.

This new model focuses on convenience and safety, offering multiple powertrain options and user-friendly tech like digital displays and driver assistance. If you’re in the market for a roomy family ride that doesn’t compromise on style or modern comforts, the KIA Clavis has you covered.

Design and Exterior Features

The KIA Clavis MPV builds on the strong foundation of the Carens but steps up its game with a sharper, more modern design. Every angle reflects KIA’s current design language, merging the smart functionality of an MPV with sporty, SUV-inspired touches that help it stand out on the road. Let’s explore the key exterior highlights that make the Clavis both practical and visually striking.

Front and Rear Design Details

At first glance, the Clavis makes a bold statement thanks to its refreshed front fascia. The triangular LED daytime running lights are cleverly integrated within a three-pod headlamp design, creating a crisp, signature look. These LEDs flow seamlessly into the inverted L-shaped DRLs, adding precision and a sense of movement even when the vehicle is still.

The grille has evolved into a clean, eye-catching “Digital Tiger Face” pattern with a diamond finish trim, lending a premium touch unlike the traditional grille on the Carens. Below, the angular bumpers with contrasting silver bash plates give the Clavis a tougher, off-road-ready vibe without overdoing it. This silver detailing continues at the rear, complementing the connected LED tail lamps.

Those connected LED tail lamps stretch across the width, linked by a bold light bar that enhances the vehicle’s width visually. The bumper matches the front with its angular styling and silver skid plate insert, completing a cohesive, muscular look. These upgrades bring a fresh, confident style compared to the previous generation, balancing elegance with rugged appeal.

Exterior Color Options and Wheels

The Clavis offers a rich palette of six distinctive monotone exterior colors, allowing you to pick one that truly fits your personality and style. These hues range from elegant neutrals like Ivory Silver Gloss and Glacier White Pearl to more daring shades like Pewter Olive and Imperial Blue.

Visually grounding the design are the dual-tone 17-inch alloy wheels featuring a star-inspired pattern. These wheels not only contribute to the car’s sturdy stance but also add a dynamic flair that catches the eye from every angle. The dark and bright contrast on the alloys complements the dual-tone theme seen in other elements like the roof rails and side cladding.

Other subtle upgrades for presence include body-colored door handles and sharp side creases that refine the profile, giving the Clavis more road presence without making it flashy. Optional features like the panoramic sunroof elevate the exterior experience, filling the cabin with light and enhancing the premium feel.

By focusing on these well-thought-out details, the Clavis successfully blends practicality with a modern, confident look that suits a family SUV perfectly.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the KIA Clavis MPV, and you’ll quickly see how it’s built to make family trips smooth and enjoyable. The interior balances space, comfort, and smart tech without feeling cluttered. It’s a blend of thoughtful design and practical features that cater to everyday family life, whether you’re running errands or heading out on a weekend getaway.

Seating and Cabin Space

The Clavis offers flexibility with 6- and 7-seat layouts, accommodating different family needs. You can go for the seven-seat version for maximum capacity or choose the six-seat option with captain seats in the second row. These captain seats provide more space and comfort, giving passengers plenty of room to stretch out and enjoy the ride.

Materials inside the cabin lean toward premium, giving a sense of quality without overdoing it. Depending on your trim level, you’ll find soft-touch upholstery and leatherette options that add a touch of elegance. Plus, the seats are designed for longer drives, offering good support and comfort.

Families will appreciate the practical aspects too: the third-row seats fold flat easily to create a larger cargo area when you need it. There’s also a clever use of cup holders, storage spaces, and well-placed air vents to keep every passenger comfortable. The cabin doesn’t feel cramped, even when fully loaded, thanks to smart cabin space management.

Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity

When it comes to tech, the Clavis doesn’t hold back. Right in front of you, a pair of dual 10.25-inch screens form the centerpiece of the dashboard. One serves as the fully digital instrument cluster displaying key vehicle information, while the other is a crisp touchscreen for infotainment controls.

The system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, making it easy to sync your phone without fumbling with cables. Navigation feels intuitive and sharp, helping you get where you need with clear directions.

If you value sound quality, the Clavis includes an 8-speaker Bose audio setup on higher trims, delivering rich and immersive sound to keep everyone entertained. The vehicle also supports over-the-air updates via Kia Connect 2.0, so your system stays current without the hassle of dealership visits.

With this setup, connected features like vehicle status checks, remote climate control, and even live traffic updates are just a few taps away on your smartphone. This keeps you in control and informed, making every journey easier and more enjoyable.

The inner cabin lighting adds subtle luxury with ambient lighting options, setting the right mood whether it’s a daytime school run or an evening drive.

In all, the KIA Clavis combines roomy comfort with modern technology that’s designed for families who want practical convenience without sacrificing style or ease of use.

Performance and Powertrain Options

When it comes to performance, the KIA Clavis MPV gives you solid choices that balance power, efficiency, and smooth driving. Whether you’re handling city traffic or cruising on the highway with your family, there’s an engine and transmission combo designed to fit your needs. Let’s break down the key options you’ll find under the hood and how they influence the drive.

Engine Specifications and Transmission

The Clavis offers three primary 1.5-liter engine variants, each with distinct strengths:

1.5L Naturally Aspirated Petrol (NA Petrol)
This engine produces around 115 PS (horsepower) and 144 Nm of torque. It’s built for steady and reliable everyday driving, perfect if you want decent power with good fuel economy. Ideal for city commutes and family rides, it keeps things simple and efficient.
1.5L Turbocharged Petrol
This is where the Clavis steps up its performance game. With a punchy 160 PS and 253 Nm of torque, it delivers a more dynamic and responsive driving experience. Turbocharging means you get more power without burning excess fuel, so it feels lively whether you’re overtaking or climbing hills.
1.5L Diesel Engine
The diesel option offers 116 PS and a robust 250 Nm of torque. This engine focuses on torque over outright speed, making it great for hauling full loads and longer journeys, especially with the seven-seat setup. Diesel engines also tend to offer better fuel efficiency on highways.

Alongside these engines, KIA gives you several transmission options to match your driving style:

6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Perfect if you enjoy full control and a hands-on feel. It’s available with both the naturally aspirated and diesel engines.
6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT)
This clutchless manual gearbox offers the engagement of a manual transmission but with smoother gear changes and less effort. It helps improve fuel efficiency and comfort during stop-and-go traffic.
7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)
Designed for the turbo petrol engine, the DCT offers quick, crisp shifts and a sportier feel. It combines the efficiency of a manual with the ease of an automatic, keeping the ride engaging yet relaxed. Higher trims with turbo petrol exclusively feature this gearbox.
6-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
Available with selected variants, this traditional automatic focuses on smoothness and ease, ideal for stress-free urban driving.

You’ll find that the turbo petrol engine paired with the DCT offers extra features like paddle shifters and selectable drive modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport). This lets you tailor the vehicle’s behavior whether you’re aiming for fuel-saving or a livelier ride.

Fuel efficiency? The naturally aspirated petrol engine balances power with economy well, while the turbo petrol offers spirited performance with decent mileage. The diesel option generally provides the best fuel economy on highways, making it a practical choice for those who often drive long distances with passengers.

In summary, the KIA Clavis MPV gives you the flexibility to prioritize what matters most: fuel savings, power, or driving ease. Each engine and transmission combination is thoughtfully tuned to keep your family trips comfortable and confident.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

When it comes to family vehicles, feeling safe on the road is a must. The KIA Clavis MPV steps up with a strong focus on safety and driver support. It doesn’t just rely on solid build quality but packs a full suite of active and passive safety features. This means you get real-time help behind the wheel plus protection if things go wrong. Here’s a detailed look at how the Clavis keeps you and your family protected.

Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The KIA Clavis comes with a Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) that brings over 20 autonomous functions to your fingertips. These features work together to reduce the stress of driving and react faster than human reflexes when needed.

Key highlights include:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Automatically adjusts your speed to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, handy on highways or stop-and-go traffic.
Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA): Detects vehicles or pedestrians and can brake automatically to avoid or reduce the severity of a crash.
Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Gently steers the vehicle back into your lane if you start to drift without signaling.
Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW): Monitors your blind spots and alerts you if a vehicle is present when changing lanes.
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning: Alerts you to crossing traffic when reversing out of parking spots.
Driver Attention Warning (DAW): Monitors driver behavior and suggests breaks if signs of fatigue or distraction appear.
Traffic Sign Recognition: Reads speed limits and other road signs, displaying them on the instrument cluster.
Automatic High Beam Assist: Switches your high beams on and off automatically depending on oncoming traffic or lighting conditions.
Parking Assist: Includes front and rear sensors and a 360-degree camera system providing a clear view around the car, reducing parking stress.

With these 20 autonomous functions, the Clavis isn’t just protecting you from possible accidents — it’s actively helping you avoid them. It’s like having a second set of eyes and a safety co-pilot while on the road.

Passive Safety and Build Quality

Beyond the smart tech, the Clavis is built to stand firm in a crash. Its safety structure uses reinforced zones designed to absorb and divert collision forces away from occupants. This body frame strength is the first line of defense.

Inside, you get six airbags placed strategically around the cabin — front, side, and curtain airbags — to cushion you and your passengers in various types of impact. This comprehensive coverage ensures protection for everyone, from front passengers to those in the third row.

Stopping power is equally important, and the Clavis delivers with a robust braking system:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during sudden braking, helping maintain steering control.
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD): Distributes braking force to wheels based on load and conditions.
Brake Assist System (BAS): Detects emergency braking and applies maximum brake power faster.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is another key player here. ESC helps keep your vehicle steady when cornering or in slippery conditions, reducing the chance of skidding or losing control. Additionally, a Hill Assist Control feature prevents the vehicle from rolling backward on inclines, making hill starts safer and easier.

The KIA Clavis also includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which constantly checks your tires and warns you if pressure drops to unsafe levels. This keeps handling sharp and prevents blowouts.

All these features together earned the KIA Clavis strong safety ratings, showing it’s well-prepped to keep your family secure both in everyday driving and in emergencies. Knowing your car has a solid cage and an active safety network gives you confidence behind the wheel.

With its advanced Level 2 ADAS and a comprehensive passive safety package, the KIA Clavis offers peace of mind that every parent and family driver looks for. This MPV is ready to support your driving and protect your loved ones, mile after mile.

Market Positioning, Pricing, and Competitors

The KIA Clavis MPV enters the mid-to-premium family MPV segment with clear intent to stand out from the crowd. It’s designed for buyers who want more than just a basic people carrier — a vehicle that offers modern styling, advanced technology, and premium comfort features. To understand what you’re getting and how it stacks up, we’ll look at pricing, value, and where the Clavis fits against some familiar rivals. We’ll also cover launch details to keep you in the loop about when you can actually get behind the wheel.

Comparative Pricing and Value for Money

The Clavis starts at around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, positioning itself just above the entry-level MPVs but comfortably below many premium SUVs. This pricing places it competitively alongside models like the Maruti Suzuki XL6 and the Toyota Rumion, though it aims to offer more features and a fresher design. At the higher end, some top trims may push closer to ₹20 lakh but still avoid the steep costs of larger premium MPVs like the Toyota Innova Hycross.

What makes the Clavis appealing is how it blends price with what you actually get:

Premium design touches such as LED light signatures, dual-tone alloys, and a sleek silhouette.
A generous 12.3-inch digital instrument and infotainment display that beats the smaller screens found in rivals like the XL6.
Advanced safety tech including Level 2 ADAS, six airbags, and a 360-degree camera system, which are still rare in this price band.
Interior features such as captain seats, ambient lighting with 64 colors, panoramic sunroof, and a Bose 8-speaker audio system enhance the overall experience.
Flexible seating configurations with sliding second-row seats and easy third-row access add real-world convenience.

While the Maruti XL6 offers a solid package with efficient engines and lower starting prices, it falls short on premium creature comforts and advanced safety features. The Toyota Rumion is cheaper but more basic in tech and design appeal. The Hyundai Alcazar shares a similar target audience but is priced noticeably higher, making the Clavis an interesting middle ground.

In short, you’re paying slightly more than mainstream MPVs but getting a handsomely equipped, well-rounded family vehicle that delivers more value when you consider features and comfort.

Launch Information and Availability

If you’re eager to see the Clavis in person, here’s what to know about its arrival. Official bookings opened on May 9, 2025, with a token amount of ₹25,000 to lock in your spot. The official launch and full market rollout happened on May 23, 2025.

At launch, the Clavis targets urban families in India, where demand for spacious yet stylish MPVs with SUV-like flair is growing. Kia is focusing primarily on metropolitan regions and Tier-1/2 cities, where buyers look for a combination of space, tech, and safety without stepping up to a full-size SUV.

Dealership availability is expected nationwide through Kia’s expanding network. Since the Clavis sits above the standard Carens model, it will be marketed as a more premium choice, with dealerships trained to highlight its advanced features and flexible seating options.

The timing is smart for Kia. Launching before the peak summer travel season means families can consider the Clavis for immediate road trips and school runs. It also aligns well with rising demand for smart MPVs as more urban buyers seek alternatives to cramped hatchbacks or expensive SUVs.

You can expect test drives and display vehicles to appear steadily after the launch, making it easier to experience exactly what sets the Clavis apart before deciding.

This section gives you a clear picture of where the KIA Clavis fits in the market and what value you get. It’s priced to appeal to families who want more than basics but don’t want to break the bank. Plus, the upcoming availability means you won’t have to wait long to check it out for yourself.

Conclusion

The KIA Clavis MPV upgrades what you expect from a family vehicle by mixing smart design, roomy interiors, and strong safety features. It offers flexible seating, modern technology, and efficient engine choices that make daily drives and long trips comfortable and enjoyable. With its advanced Level 2 driver assistance and premium touches, the Clavis sets a high standard in its price range.

If you want a family MPV that balances style, space, and safety without stretching your budget too far, the Clavis deserves a serious look. Checking it out in person will help you see how it fits your needs. This model is clearly built to serve families who value both comfort and confidence on the road.

KIA Clavis MPV Review 2025: Features, Safety, Price & Why It’s the Best Family Car

KIA Clavis MPV Review: What Makes This New Family Ride Stand Out in 2025