Kia Carens Compact MPV Revealed as the New Rondo: 2012 Paris Motor Show Preview
Kia has revealed its all-new Carens model ahead of its premiere at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, giving us a glimpse of what the Korean automaker calls a compact MPV.
Essentially replacing what was known as the Rondo in the United States, the Carens features signature Kia styling while offering seating up to seven. Unfortunately most of the details on the multi-purpose vehicle will be kept under wraps until the auto show in France, but the automaker did say that it will be on sale in Europe starting next spring.
Kia did not, however, release any information on what other markets it will make an appearance in. Originally sold throughout North America, it was dropped from the brand’s US lineup while sales continued North of the border in Canada. We expect more information to come when it officially premieres are the 2012 Paris Motor Show.
“The new Carens builds on the family-friendly versatility and functionality of its predecessor, and features more athletic and visually dynamic design,” says Hyoung-Keun Lee, Vice Chairman and CEO of Kia. “This marks a dramatic shift forward for our MPV contender and brings the model in line with Kia’s distinctive current design direction.”
GALLERY: 2013 Kia Carens
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Very happy with my 2008 model hope the new 2014 styling comes to Canada will be in line to buy one