The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDI (141 hp) ISG 7-Seat, produced primarily for the European market from January 2016, represents a significant iteration of Kia’s multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) offering. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient family vehicle, this variant aimed to balance affordability with a generous level of standard equipment and seating capacity. It falls within the third generation of the Carens (UN series), which debuted in 2013, offering a more refined and spacious interior compared to its predecessors. 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 particular engine and trim level served as a mid-range option, bridging the gap between the base models and the more powerful diesel variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Kia |
| Model | Carens |
| Generation | Carens III |
| Type | 1.7 CRDI (141 Hp) ISG 7 Seat |
| Start of production | January, 2016 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 7 |
| 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 | 10.8 kg/Hp, 93 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.3 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 | 1516-1641 kg (3342.21 – 3617.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2250 kg (4960.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 609-734 kg (1342.62 – 1618.19 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 492 l (17.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1650 l (58.27 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 is the U II / D4FD engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Kia/Hyundai’s U-series diesel engines, known for their relatively compact size and efficiency. It utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, enhancing power output and torque. The intercooler cools the compressed air from the turbocharger, increasing its density and further improving performance. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to efficient gas exchange. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a balance between fuel economy and driver control. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque output, providing adequate acceleration for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 141 hp 1.7 CRDI engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.9 seconds, making it suitable for typical commuting and highway driving. The engine’s peak torque of 340 Nm (250.77 lb-ft) available from 1750-2500 rpm meant that the vehicle felt responsive in most driving situations, particularly when overtaking. Compared to the higher-output diesel variants (like the 1.7 CRDI with 136 hp), this version offered slightly less power but a more economical fuel consumption. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver engagement, but the gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The ISG system contributed to improved fuel economy in urban environments by automatically shutting off the engine during stops.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CRDI ISG 7-Seat trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric front and rear windows, a radio with USB connectivity, and Bluetooth. Safety features included ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, rear parking sensors, and climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. The 7-seat configuration provided flexibility for families, although the third-row seats were best suited for children or shorter journeys.
Chassis & Braking
The Carens III utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. Front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while rear brakes were solid discs. The electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s weight, ranging from 1516-1641 kg (3342.21 – 3617.79 lbs.), influenced its handling characteristics, making it feel stable but not particularly sporty.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDI ISG 7-Seat was generally well-received by automotive critics for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and value for money. It was often praised for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. Compared to competitors like the Renault Scenic or Citroen C4 Picasso, the Carens offered a competitive price point and a generous warranty. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with combined fuel consumption figures around 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The Kia Carens III 1.7 CRDI ISG 7-Seat remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for families seeking an affordable and practical MPV. The U II / D4FD engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance, including DPF regeneration, is crucial. The availability of spare parts is generally good, and the vehicle’s relatively simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy to maintain. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 1.7 CRDI variant offers a good balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability, making it a sensible choice for those seeking a versatile family vehicle.
