The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDI (141 hp) ISG represents a significant iteration in Kia’s multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) lineup, produced primarily for the European and Asian markets from 2016. This variant, equipped with a 1.7-liter diesel engine and a six-speed manual transmission, aimed to balance fuel efficiency with practical family transport. 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. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Carens III series, it slotted between the lower-powered diesel options and the more expensive petrol variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Carens |
| Generation | Carens III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CRDI (141 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) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 227.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 141 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 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 | 1492-1617 kg (3289.3 – 3564.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 493-618 kg (1086.88 – 1362.46 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) | 11.0 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 x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Carens III 1.7 CRDI ISG is the U II / D4FD engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a 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 features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its efficiency. The compression ratio of 15.7:1 is typical for modern diesel engines, maximizing energy extraction from the fuel. The six-speed manual transmission provides a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The ISG system, a key feature, automatically cuts engine power when idling, reducing fuel consumption and emissions in stop-and-go traffic.
Driving Characteristics
The 141 hp output and 340 Nm of torque provide adequate performance for everyday driving. While not a particularly sporty vehicle, the Carens III 1.7 CRDI offers sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking. The manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, and the engine’s torque curve delivers strong pull from relatively low RPMs. Compared to the higher-powered petrol versions, this diesel variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright acceleration. The six-speed gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing comfortable cruising speeds without excessive engine noise. Compared to automatic transmission options available on other Carens trims, the manual offers a more engaging driving experience and typically better fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CRDI ISG trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features included ABS, airbags, and stability control. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over luxury.
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, suitable for family transportation. Front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while rear brakes are solid discs. The electric power steering provides light and easy steering, making it maneuverable in urban environments. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDI ISG was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and value for money. It offered a compelling alternative to more expensive European MPVs. Compared to the petrol variants, the diesel version provided significantly better fuel economy, making it a popular choice for high-mileage drivers. The manual transmission was praised for its responsiveness, although some reviewers noted that the gearshift could feel slightly notchy. Reliability reports suggest that the U II / D4FD engine is generally robust, although regular maintenance is crucial for long-term durability.
Legacy
The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDI ISG remains a relatively common sight on used car markets. The U II / D4FD engine has proven to be reasonably reliable, provided it receives regular servicing, including oil changes and filter replacements. The ISG system, while beneficial for fuel economy, can sometimes require maintenance or replacement over time. Overall, this variant represents a practical and economical choice for families seeking a spacious and fuel-efficient MPV. Its blend of affordability, practicality, and reasonable running costs continues to make it an attractive option in the used car market.
