The Kia Carens Clavis EV has certainly generated excitement, promising a practical 7-seater electric option. While it offers many appealing features, it’s crucial to look at the full picture before making a decision. Like any vehicle, especially in a rapidly evolving segment like EVs, it comes with certain trade-offs and limitations.
My goal is to provide a balanced perspective, so you can make an informed choice that truly fits your needs. Let’s delve into the Top 5 Reasons to AVOID the Kia Carens Clavis EV, highlighting potential drawbacks you should be aware of.
1. No 5G Connectivity
In an era where 5G networks are expanding rapidly, the Kia Carens Clavis EV remains limited to 4G connectivity.
- Slower Speeds: While 4G is still functional, 5G offers significantly faster data speeds and lower latency, which can impact streaming quality, online gaming, and overall internet experience, especially as network demands grow.
- Lack of Future-Proofing: If you plan to keep your vehicle for several years, a 4G-only car might feel outdated sooner. This could affect its resale value or your satisfaction as 5G becomes the standard.
2. Firm Ride Quality
Due to the added weight of the battery pack, the Carens Clavis EV’s suspension has been stiffened, impacting ride comfort.
- Bumpy Experience: While necessary to manage the vehicle’s weight, this stiffer setup means you will feel bumps and road imperfections more prominently, especially on less-than-perfect roads.
- Less Compliant: Compared to its gasoline-powered counterpart, or even some other EVs, the ride might feel less plush and compliant, which could be a concern for passengers on longer journeys or daily commutes over uneven surfaces.
3. Wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto on Top Trims
Despite being a modern EV launched in 2025, the top-end variants of the Carens Clavis EV surprisingly lack wireless smartphone connectivity.
- Inconvenient Connectivity: You’ll need to physically plug in your phone via a USB-A port to use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. In a world increasingly moving towards wireless convenience, this feels like a step backward.
- Cluttered Cabin: This can lead to cables cluttering the center console, detracting from the otherwise clean interior design. It’s an unexpected omission for a vehicle in this price range and segment.
4. Prominent Body Roll & Limited Handling Feedback
While the Carens Clavis EV offers brisk acceleration, its handling dynamics might not satisfy all drivers, especially when pushed.
- Noticeable Body Roll: Due to its MPV body type and increased weight, the vehicle exhibits prominent body roll, particularly during quick lane changes or when taking corners aggressively. This can make passengers sway.
- Light Steering: The steering, while light for city driving, lacks sufficient feedback and feel, which can reduce driver confidence and engagement on highways or winding roads.
5. Charging Port Location & Underbody Battery Pack
While the front charging port is convenient, its placement and the battery pack’s underbody location present some considerations.
- Front Collision Vulnerability: Placing the charging port at the very front of the vehicle means it could be susceptible to damage in the event of a minor front-end collision, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Battery Pack Exposure: The battery pack hangs from below the vehicle, which, while common for EV conversions, could be a concern for some regarding potential damage from road debris or uneven terrain, despite the decent ground clearance.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective is Key
The Kia Carens Clavis EV is an appealing option for families seeking a spacious electric vehicle, offering strong value, brisk performance, and practical features. However, it’s crucial to consider these potential drawbacks: the lack of 5G, a firm ride, wired-only smartphone connectivity on top trims, noticeable body roll, and the charging port’s front location.
Ultimately, your decision should align with your priorities. If these limitations are significant for your driving style or connectivity needs, you might want to explore other options. Understanding these points will help you make the best choice for your electric journey.
About the Author: Faisal Khan My name is Faisal Khan and I am the founder of MotorBeam, FK-R, and CarAdvice. I hold an MBA in Finance and am an entrepreneur by profession. Cars and motorcycles are my passion, and on this channel, I show you a real-world experience of driving a vehicle via my POV vlogs. I also show you the BTS of my shoots, travel, and office.
Source: Kia Carens Clavis EV – Practical & Feature Loaded 7-Seater MPV
