The all-new third generation Kia Carens is now available to order from dealerships across the UK, writes Philip Shoulder.

The new Carens sports a rakish sleek profile, yet has a large glass area to assist with side visibility.

The front end is dominated by the familiar ‘tiger-nose’ grille with a chrome edge and either black or high-gloss black mesh.

Three trim and equipment packages are available, badged 1, 2 and 3. All variants feature: cornering lights and LED daytime running lamps, alloy wheels, seven seats, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, air conditioning, steering wheel-mounted controls, front and rear electric windows, cruise control, a six-speaker audio system with iPod/ MP3connectivity and Bluetooth.

Safety features include Brake Assist,Vehicle Stability Management and Electronic Stability Control.

The 1.6-litre Gamma GDi direct-injection petrol unit produces 133bhp and 165Nm of torque and a combined fuel economy of 44.1mpg.

The 1.7-litre CRDi manual transmission turbodiesel engine is available with either 114bhp and 260Nm of torque or 134bhp and 330Nm.

Combined cycle fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 60.1mpg and 124g/km and 56.4mpg and 132g/km respectively. Kia’s Intelligent Stop & Go (ISG) engine stop-start system is standard on all manual-gearbox models.

Despite a shorter and lower body, Kia has also raised its game with interior space, thanks to a 50mm increase in wheelbase and lower seat positions.

Inside three individual sliding and reclining centre-row seats replace the previous split bench, with two separate seats in the rear folding flat to maximize cargo space.

A luggage area coupled with an underfloor compartment, further adds to the practicality on offer.

There’s improved storage too, thanks to a cooled glovebox, a centre console box, and extra large door pockets.

As with all new Kia models, Carens comes with a seven year /100,000 mile warranty (unlimited mileage in the first three years).

Prices start from £17,895 OTR for the Grade ‘1’ 1.6 GDi 133bhp 6-speed manual ISG 7-seat.