As the popularity of the SUV continues unabated, the segment continues to define itself with specific trends, one of which is the availability of a third row. This has become so prominent that it has moved from being an option to an entire line of vehicles, all with seven seats as standard. The Carens is Kia’s entry into this space.

EXTERIOR

Ultimately, these vehicles are for families looking to maximise their transportation situation. It needs to carry as much as possible, human or otherwise, and as such always falls to form following function. To do this, a box is generally the best shape, and the Carens does its best to avoid the lack of visual diversity associated with the design.

Yes, it’s long, narrow, and tall to ensure a sizeable interior volume, but there are some light lines to break up the square-ness. Where the designers have put their mark is the front fascia and the rear, with a unique thin lighting signature at both ends. Nothing outwardly offensive, but enough to stand apart in the shopping centre parking lot.

INTERIOR

The benefits of the choice to go boxy are felt immediately on the inside. The cabin feels exceptionally spacious, due to the plentiful headroom and large viewing angles from the amount of glass around. Interior design is much like exterior, form following function again, so there’s an abundance of storage solutions around the vehicle for the family that doesn’t pack light. For example, there are eight cup holders in the front, six in the middle row, and two for the third row passengers.

Speaking of the third row, when down, the trunk space expands to cavernous. The third set of seats fold out of the trunk floor for ease of use. Access is a one-button press from the second row. Adults can be comfortable for short jaunts sharing climate control with the second row and having their own USB-C ports, as does everyone in the Carens. For longer trips, children, young adults, and adults below the median physical parameters will be more than fine.

Nice extras include picnic tables built into the back of the front seats for the convenience of the second row occupants. The infotainment is clear to operate, and does so smoothly, as is the digital instrumentation.

Kia has made sure there isn’t enough technology to distract during driving or dealing with family issues inside the vehicle. Overall design and quality put the Carens near the top of the list against class rivals.

ON THE ROAD

The Carens isn’t going to win any drag races, but it’s not designed to. This is pure family settings. Competence, safety, and efficiency are the core elements at this end of the SUV market, and the Kia has all of these in droves. It never drives in a manner that generates worry. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder under the bonnet has the power it needs to move the Carens at speeds sufficient for its target demographic. For those who might attempt to push past those levels, the electronic nannies and natural self-preservation will rein that in. Work with the Carens and a relaxed comfortable ride, with high fuel economy numbers is the reward.