Kia Carens Clavis CNG Spotted Testing, Launch Likely Before Diwali

Kia India appears to be preparing the Kia Carens Clavis CNG for launch, as a test mule has been spotted on the Pune Mumbai Expressway. The latest spy shots suggest the MPV could receive a factory fitted CNG kit before Diwali 2026.

If launched, it would become Kia's first premium CNG offering in India. The move could attract buyers seeking lower running costs. It could also strengthen the Carens Clavis against factory fitted CNG rivals in the MPV segment.

Factory Fitted CNG Under Testing 

The latest test mule was spotted by automotive enthusiast Shashank Nair during road testing. The vehicle carried an "ON TEST" sticker on the front windshield.

Kia had earlier tested a CNG version of the older Carens with its 1.4 litre turbo petrol engine. However, that model never reached production.

The latest spy shots indicate that Kia has restarted work on a factory fitted CNG version. The launch is expected before Diwali 2026.

Carens Clavis CNG Could Target Value Focused Buyers

Factory fitted CNG options appeal to buyers looking for lower fuel expenses and easier ownership. The Kia Carens Clavis CNG could also attract commercial operators seeking lower running costs.

The spy images do not confirm whether Kia car will use a single cylinder or dual cylinder CNG setup.

If the company chooses a single cylinder setup, boot space could be reduced. An underfloor layout may preserve luggage space but could replace the spare wheel.

A dual cylinder setup would balance usable boot space while retaining a spare wheel.

Expected Engine and Features

The test vehicle features projector headlamps instead of the triple ice cube LED units offered on higher trims. This suggests the CNG version may be limited to lower and mid spec variants.

The updated 2026 Carens Clavis seen during testing also features fog lamps.

The CNG version is expected to use the 1.5 litre naturally aspirated petrol engine instead of the 1.5 litre turbo petrol engine. A manual gearbox is likely to be the only transmission option.

Once launched, the Clavis CNG will directly challenge the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga CNG and Maruti Suzuki XL6 CNG. Buyers looking for a spacious MPV with lower fuel costs will have another factory fitted CNG option to consider.

Curious about Kia's market momentum? Check out the Kia India July 2026 sales report.