First look: Kia uncovers Carens

FIRST came the sketch, now comes the official photograph of Kia’s new-generation Carens mini-MPV, ahead of its premiere at the Madrid motor show on May 25.

Under consideration for Australia, the vehicle (known as the Rondo in North America) is 4.54 metres long, will seat up to seven people and be available with diesel and petrol engines.

Longer, wider and taller than the current six-seater model, whose life cut short here after just 18 months in December 2001, the all-new Carens is under consideration for Oz and was previewed by the Multi-S concept at last September's Frankfurt motor show.

Dubbed a next-generation Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV), the Multi-S is claimed to blend the MPV, SUV and crossover trends.

Riding on a 2700mm wheelbase and at 4545mm long, it’s closer to Kia’s full-size Carnival people-mover in length and will boast boast "best in class" occupant protection systems, including motor driven power steering (MDPS), an electronic stability program (ESP), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), adaptive front light system (AFS), full-length side curtain airbags and active head restraints.

Featuring seven seats and air-conditioning for all three rows, the Multi-S concept was powered by a 2.7-litre petrol V6 mated to a five-speed auto, but Kia says its engine bay is also designed to accept a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel.