kia carens

[michael_374324390]

Has anyone owned one of these to tow with. 2.0crdi, 138bhp@4000 max torque 305@1800-2500 and 1657kg kerbweight for £13000 new seems to good to be true,what are downsides?

 

[Geist]

I've driven the Carens for a couple of days and my lasting memory is that of the best gear change I've ever experienced on a car - every gear 'snicks' into place with a slight 'click', it's almost like an old 'H' gate shift.

engine-wise, the Carans is identical to the Sportage 2.0 CRDi (which I own) and that has proved to be a really excellent tow car.

Suffice it to say that it out-performs our previous 140 bhp diesel Sharan, and allows easy cruising at 60-70mph in 6th gear pulling a 1500 kg van, car fully loaded with 4 people, roof box, generator, ice box, etc, etc, etc.

As for gradients - we sailed (laden as above) up the long winding 20% hill from Ottery St Mary without breaking a sweat, not bad, especially considering that the road was awash with rain water and mud.

Personally, I'd go for the Sportage - but the Carens should be a terrific tow car withing the constraints of its kerbweight.

 

[Alex_374296729]

I've driven the Carens for a couple of days and my lasting memory is that of the best gear change I've ever experienced on a car - every gear 'snicks' into place with a slight 'click', it's almost like an old 'H' gate shift.

engine-wise, the Carans is identical to the Sportage 2.0 CRDi (which I own) and that has proved to be a really excellent tow car.

Suffice it to say that it out-performs our previous 140 bhp diesel Sharan, and allows easy cruising at 60-70mph in 6th gear pulling a 1500 kg van, car fully loaded with 4 people, roof box, generator, ice box, etc, etc, etc.

As for gradients - we sailed (laden as above) up the long winding 20% hill from Ottery St Mary without breaking a sweat, not bad, especially considering that the road was awash with rain water and mud.

Personally, I'd go for the Sportage - but the Carens should be a terrific tow car withing the constraints of its kerbweight.

I agree with Geist.

I have a Sportage and it ticks all the boxes. Had a Freelander before TD4, very good in all areas of country but in Cornwall struggled on hills with van at a standing start. The Sportage is not as good on fuel, but then it is a lot cheaper. Tax is just in the

 

[Philip_374242473]

I've just purchased a new Carens 2.0 SR CRDi 7 seater. Pick it up Monday. I tow a 1300kg '94 Swift Conqueror, will let you know what it tows like.

 

[Dustydog]

Hi Michael

father in Law has a 2.00litre diesel Carens and tugs his Bailey Pageant Monarch with ease. he did 3000mls touring the Highlands of Scotland this year, effortlessly.

The only I did for him was to add Grayston rear spring assisters just to beef up the rear. He takes the kitchen sink etc.

I have an 05 Kia Sorento and generally find Kia's reliable plus th bonus of price and long guarantees.

Cheers

Alan