2013-2015 Kia Carens III 1.7 16V CRDi (136 Hp) HPE Automatic

The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDi HPE Automatic, produced between May 2013 and December 2015, represents a significant offering in the compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. Positioned as a mid-range trim within the third-generation Carens (UN) lineup – internally designated the 1HX – this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability for families. The Carens III, designed primarily for the European and Asian markets, offered a seven-seat configuration in a relatively compact footprint, making it a popular choice for urban and suburban families. This specific 1.7-liter diesel automatic combination was intended to appeal to buyers prioritizing ease of driving and lower running costs over outright performance.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Carens III 1.7 CRDi HPE Automatic is the U II / D4FD engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at just 1750 rpm. This relatively low-end torque peak is a characteristic of diesel engines and contributes to the Carens’ usability in everyday driving. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 17:1. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth shifts and enhance driving comfort. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it offers a reasonable level of responsiveness for typical driving scenarios.

Driving Characteristics

The 1.7 CRDi Automatic Carens delivers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t known for rapid gear changes. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.4 seconds, and 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12 seconds. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter petrol or diesel variants, the 1.7 CRDi feels noticeably less energetic, especially when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. However, the abundant low-end torque makes it well-suited for overtaking maneuvers on the highway and provides ample power for everyday driving. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, prioritizing economy over outright performance. The steering is light and easy, making it maneuverable in urban environments, but lacks significant feedback.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The “HPE” trim level, as offered in the European market, represented a mid-range specification for the Carens III. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, central locking, a radio/CD player with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras often included a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, rear parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system with navigation. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a dark color scheme. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetic flair.

Chassis & Braking

The Carens III utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering system is an electric power steering rack and pinion, providing light and easy steering assistance. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDi Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable family vehicle. Its fuel economy – around 38.6 US mpg combined – was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than petrol. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter diesel variants, the 1.7 CRDi offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The automatic transmission was praised for its smoothness, but some reviewers noted its lack of responsiveness compared to manual transmissions or more advanced automatic gearboxes. Reliability was generally considered good, with few major issues reported.

Legacy

The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDi HPE Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The U II / D4FD engine, while not without its potential issues (such as diesel particulate filter clogging), is generally considered robust when properly maintained. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, filter replacements, and occasional attention to the diesel particulate filter. Today, these vehicles represent a cost-effective option for families seeking a spacious and economical MPV. Their relatively low purchase price and good fuel economy continue to make them an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers.