[tl:gallery size=460×289]
THE KIA CARENS MPV has scored the maximum five stars in the latest round of Euro NCAP safety tests.
As well as a top score for the Carens, Euro NCAP also awarded five stars to the Qoros 3 Sedan. It’s the first time a car developed in China has scored the maximum score in NCAP tests.
Michiel van Ratingen, the secretary general of Euro NCAP, said: “It is pleasing
to see that a new manufacturer like Qoros should place a high emphasis
on safety and perform well in our tests. Manufacturers know that
consumers are used to the highest levels of protection and that new cars
will be scrutinised if they are put on sale in Europe.”
It’s the Kia’s strong score which is likely to be of most interest to caravanners, however. Through cars like the Sorento, Sportage and Sedona, Kia has a strong following in tow car circles and we look forward to towing with a Carens soon.
The diesel range starts from £19,295, although the more powerful 134bhp version of the 1.7-litre diesel engine looks better suited for towing than the entry-level 114bhp model. The 134bhp car has kerbweights starting from 1591kg, which gives an 85% match figure of 1352kg. The legal towing limit is 1500kg and the noseweight maximum is 75kg.
