Skip advert
Advertisement

Used buyer's guide: Kia Carens

Kia has recently launched a new version of its practical MPV, making the old MkII model look even better value

When the MkII Carens made its debut in 2006, we said: “It’s fantastic value, a massive step forward from the car it replaces and a serious contender in the compact MPV sector.” Seven years later, the Kia is still a fine choice for families – and although the new version has made another big step forward, this outgoing model is still a lot of car for the money. Even better if you can buy a post-January 2010 example, because these came with a seven-year warranty rather than the five-year deal on earlier cars.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The people carrier is losing its appeal on the new car market as motorists switch to crossovers. But this is great news for used MPV buyers, as it means there are some brilliant bargains – and few cars can rival the second-generation Kia Carens for value, especially as it’s just been replaced.

When new, the five or seven-seater offered a lot for the money, and steep depreciation means you get even more bang for your buck second-hand. Look beyond the awkward styling, and you’ll find a comfy car with plenty of space.

History

The original Carens went on sale in the UK in 2000, with this MkII car arriving in autumn 2006. From the outset, there were 2.0-litre petrol or diesel engines, with five or six-speed manual gearboxes respectively.

However, the diesels had the option of a four-speed automatic, too, and from March 2008 this box was also offered on the newly introduced 2.0 LS. The only other developments during the Carens’ seven-year lifespan were the introduction of a 1.6 petrol engine in February 2009 and the launch of a 126bhp 1.6 CRDi diesel in January 2010.

Alternatives

The Carens competes against some talented cars, not least the Vauxhall Zafira. This versatile, well equipped seven-seater is cheap and in plentiful supply, and ideal for the budget conscious. Buyers wanting a sportier drive will love the Ford S-MAX, which is spacious and readily available.

However, it’s a big car and can be expensive to run. The Toyota Verso and VW Tiguan are more costly than the Kia, but they’re solidly built and come with some strong engines. If your focus is on value, check out the Renault Scenic and Grand Scenic, plus the Citroen C4 Picasso, which offer great versatility at a tempting price.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,155Avg. savings £2,019 off RRP*Used from £15,299
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,405Avg. savings £2,749 off RRP*Used from £12,220
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £15,940Avg. savings £2,827 off RRP*Used from £9,000
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,540Avg. savings £3,974 off RRP*Used from £15,633
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Renault Clio to shun electric power and stick with petrol and hybrid options
Renault Clio design render - front

New Renault Clio to shun electric power and stick with petrol and hybrid options

Renault’s sixth-generation Clio hatchback will get a clean look and hi-tech kit, and our exclusive images show what it could look like
News
12 Feb 2025
The small petrol car lives! Pint-sized Fiat Pandina due in 2027
Fiat Panda Cross - front static

The small petrol car lives! Pint-sized Fiat Pandina due in 2027

Fiat will build a new city-sized Pandina based on the new 500 platform, bringing a proper, petrol powered A-segment city car to market as early as 202…
News
12 Feb 2025
Car Deal of the Day: retro Renault 5 for £232 per month, plus four years to enjoy it
Renault 5 - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: retro Renault 5 for £232 per month, plus four years to enjoy it

The reborn Renault 5 is one of the most feverishly anticipated cars in a long time, and at such a low price, our Deal of the Day for 8 February is a p…
News
8 Feb 2025