Kia RondoCarens MPV

Kia RondoCarens MPV has pulled the wraps off its all-new Carens today, showing the new MPV before its official unveiling next week at the Paris Motor Show. Kia Carens Front Never heard of the Kia Carens? You probably know it as the Rondo, which is what Kia sold it as in the U.S. from 2007 to 2010. Despite efficiently packaging three rows of seating in a compact people mover, the Rondo never caught on in the States and left the compact MPV market to the Mazda5. Kia has yet to detail much about the new Carens, but we do know that it will move onto a new platform.

Kia RondoCarens MPV

Kia RondoCarens MPV

 Kia RondoCarens MPV

Kia RondoCarens MPV

Kia RondoCarens MPV

Autocar reports that the platform is actually the one that debuted under the new C'eed hatchback earlier this year, which would make sense given the Carens' C-segment size. Kia Carens Interior The outgoing Carens was also the only remaining model in Kia's lineup that hadn't been touched by head designer Peter Schreyer. The new Carens falls right in line with the rest of Kia's lineup, complete with the so-called tiger grille, aggressive headlights, and sharp character line. The cabin has made a giant leap forward, too - gone are the cheap-looking plastics, replaced by slick-looking piano-black trim, bright gauges, and a raft of newly available technology like Bluetooth and navigation. Kia will again offer the Carens with up to seven seats. Kia Carens Rear The new Carens will also serve as a replacement for the recently departed Sedona minivan, reports suggest. We couldn't reach Kia for comment as to whether the Carens would fill the spot of the Sedona, and whether we might receive a new Rondo on our shores. Expect the new Kia Carens to go head-to-head with the Mazda5, Ford Grand C-Max, and Toyota Verso when it goes on sale in Europe. The new Carens will make its debut next week at the Paris Motor Show alongside the new Pro_C'eed hatchback and face-lifted Sorento SUV.