has been one of the most notable volume generators in the country’s premium B and C segment SUVs and MPVs. The company currently offers Petrol and Diesel engine options across its portfolio and has ventured into EV world with Carens Clavis EV. We have seen test mules of Kia Carens CNG variant on road tests too.
While Carens CNG spied in 2022 did not launch as a factory-fitted option, something new seems to be cooking based on the Carens Clavis. Given the direction India’s energy and automotive sector is heading, one could connect the dots and speculate that this Carens Clavis test mule might be Kia’s first E85 Flex Fuel vehicle.
Kia Clavis Flex Fuel
While Kia India has not confirmed that they are diversifying their interests away from Hybrids into Flex Fuel technology, there is a good probability of this test mule being a Flex Fuel vehicle. This test mule in question was spotted by automotive enthusiast Vinay who saw it around Kia’s manufacturing facility near Penukonda Mandal, Andhra Pradesh state.
As seen in the spy shots, this Kia Carens Clavis test mule is fully draped in opaque fabric camouflage. It looks like the colour is Imperial Blue and the trim could be either GTX or GTX+, because of these wheels and Lime Green brake calipers. Also, this particular test mule is based on the newer 2026 model, which brings some visual changes with it too.
With E85 flex fuel compatibility, Kia India will establish a future-ready model when higher blends of ethanol in domestic fuel will be the norm. Flex Fuel vehicles come with significantly overhauled fuel storage, fuel supply and fuel injection systems because Ethanol has a higher tendency of holding moisture leading to corrosion in non-compatible vehicles.
2026 Kia Carens Clavis
It has to be noted that the flex fuel test mule (not confirmed) was based on the new 2026 Kia Carens Clavis and it gets a few new elements, similar to the update given to and . As part of the new Model Year 2026 update, Kia Carens Clavis gets a new fascia with revised front bumpers.
It has to be noted that Clavis ICE did not get fog lights and the latest 2026 update brings fog lights for the first time. The newer model also gets new wheel designs for higher-spec GT Line variants too, which is what this particular test mule was based upon. Right now, Kia has invested into Strong Hybrid technology and is expected to launch in India around 2027.
