The Kia Carens Clavis has quickly become a popular choice among Indian families, thanks to its spacious cabin, versatile seating, and feature-rich trims. In January 2026, Kia India introduced a new HTE (EX) trim to the Carens Clavis ICE portfolio, bringing a sunroof and several comfort upgrades to lower variants. This move is aimed at buyers who want premium features without stretching their budget to higher trims.
Key Highlights of the HTE (EX) Trim
- First-ever skylight electric sunroof in the entry-level G1.5 petrol Carens Clavis.
- Automatic climate control (FATC) for enhanced comfort.
- LED DRLs and LED cabin lamps for a modern touch.
- Auto power window function for convenience.
- Available across three powertrains:
- G1.5 petrol – ₹12.54 lakh
- G1.5 turbo-petrol – ₹13.41 lakh
- D1.5 diesel – ₹14.52 lakh (all ex-showroom).
- Offered exclusively in a seven-seater configuration, making it ideal for families.
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Design and Styling
The Carens Clavis HTE (EX) retains Kia’s signature design language with a bold front fascia, sleek LED DRLs, and a practical yet stylish silhouette. The addition of a sunroof elevates its appeal, especially for younger buyers who associate this feature with premium cars. Inside, the cabin benefits from LED lighting and improved ergonomics, ensuring a more upscale feel compared to the base HTE (O) trim.
Comfort and Convenience
Kia has focused on enhancing everyday usability in the HTE (EX):
- Automatic climate control ensures consistent cooling across all three rows.
- Sunroof adds natural light and ventilation, enhancing the cabin experience.
- LED cabin lamps improve visibility during night drives.
- Auto power windows simplify passenger convenience.
These upgrades make the HTE (EX) a practical choice for families who want comfort without overspending.
Positioning in the Lineup
The HTE (EX) sits above the HTE (O) trim and below mid-level trims like HTK and HTK+. By offering premium features at a relatively modest price increase, Kia has created a sweet spot for buyers who want more than the basics but don’t need the full suite of high-end tech.
This strategy mirrors Kia’s broader approach in India—providing feature-rich entry-level variants to attract value-conscious buyers.
Market Impact
The introduction of the HTE (EX) trim is significant for several reasons:
- Sunroof democratization: Once reserved for premium trims, Kia has now made it accessible at entry-level pricing.
- Competitive edge: Rivals like Hyundai Alcazar and Maruti XL6 do not offer sunroofs in their base trims, giving Kia a unique advantage.
- Family appeal: With seven seats and comfort upgrades, the Carens Clavis HTE (EX) is positioned as a family-friendly option in the ₹12–15 lakh segment.
Challenges and Considerations
While the HTE (EX) adds value, buyers should consider:
- Price jump: Compared to the HTE (O), the EX trim is costlier, though justified by added features.
- Limited customization: Offered only in seven-seater format, which may not suit smaller families.
- Competition: Rivals may respond with similar feature updates, narrowing Kia’s advantage.
Conclusion
The Kia Carens Clavis HTE (EX) is a smart addition to the lineup, offering a sunroof, automatic climate control, and LED lighting at an accessible price point. By blending affordability with premium features, Kia has strengthened its appeal among Indian families seeking comfort and style. Positioned strategically between entry-level and mid-range trims, the HTE (EX) is likely to become one of the most popular variants in the Carens Clavis portfolio.