The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDi (115 hp) ISG represents a significant iteration in Kia’s multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) lineup, produced primarily for the European market between 2016 and 2016. Positioned as an entry-to-mid-range offering within the third-generation Carens (UN) series – internally designated the 1HX – this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability for families. The “ISG” designation denotes the inclusion of Kia’s Idle Stop & Go system, a fuel-saving technology that automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. This model competed directly with other compact MPVs like the Renault Scenic, Citroën C4 Picasso, and Opel Zafira.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Carens |
| Generation | Carens III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 16V CRDi (115 Hp) ISG |
| Start of production | January, 2016 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp, 77.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1250-2750 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1250-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | U II / D4FD |
| Engine displacement | 1685 cm3 (102.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.2 mm (3.04 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1482-1607 kg (3267.25 – 3542.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 503-628 kg (1108.93 – 1384.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 536 l (18.93 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1694 l (59.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4525 mm (178.15 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm (108.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1563-1573 mm (61.54 – 61.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1576-1586 mm (62.05 – 62.44 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 835 mm (32.87 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J 16; 7.0J 17; 7.5J 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Carens III 1.7 CRDi is the U II / D4FD engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Kia/Hyundai’s U-series, known for its relatively compact size and efficiency. It utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder. The high compression ratio of 15.7:1 contributes to the engine’s thermal efficiency. The ISG system, standard on this variant, automatically cuts engine power when idling, such as at traffic lights, and restarts it instantly when the driver depresses the clutch or brake pedal. This feature significantly improves fuel economy in urban driving conditions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 hp output of the 1.7 CRDi, coupled with 260 Nm of torque, provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the Carens III. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.4 seconds, and top speed is approximately 119.92 mph. The engine’s peak torque is available from a low 1250 rpm, providing good responsiveness for everyday driving situations. However, compared to higher-powered variants like the 1.6 GDI petrol engine or the 2.0 CRDi diesel, this version feels less potent, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The six-speed manual transmission offers a reasonable spread of gear ratios, but the engine can feel strained at higher speeds. The ISG system is generally seamless in operation, but some drivers may notice a slight delay during engine restart.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CRDi ISG typically came equipped as a mid-range trim level, offering a balance of features and affordability. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a radio/CD player with USB connectivity, central locking, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials. Safety features included multiple airbags and stability control.
Chassis & Braking
The Carens III utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than handling precision, making it well-suited for family transportation.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDi ISG was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offered a compelling value proposition compared to some of its more expensive rivals. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power, and the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some competitors. Compared to the petrol-powered versions, the 1.7 CRDi offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritized running costs. The 2.0 CRDi offered more performance but at a higher price point and with slightly increased running costs.
Legacy
The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDi ISG has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the used car market. The U II engine is known for its durability, and the ISG system has generally been trouble-free. However, as with any diesel engine, it’s important to ensure regular maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements. The Carens III remains a popular choice for families seeking an affordable and practical MPV, and the 1.7 CRDi variant continues to offer a good balance of fuel efficiency and usability.
