Category: Compact MPV 
Price Range: £11,495 to £16,995
Price, improved refinement and equipment, a thoroughly decent all-rounder.
Still not quite as sophisticated as some rivals.
Compact MPVs are never going to be trendy style statements, so you might as well buy one that gives good value, whatever its badge.
Refinement is much improved over the outgoing model, with better sound-proofing, suppression of engine vibrations and a smoother ride, though the Carens is still not quite as smooth and quiet as its European rivals. Not much in it now, though. The seats are supportive for long journeys, and the driver's seat has lumbar adjustment as standard. Air conditioning is standard too (climate control on SE models) and ventilation has been improved with rear ducts now fitted. With only the five seats, the Carens feels roomier than before, and there is generous luggage space and enough legroom for adults to travel happily in the rear. And yes, the rear seats do now split and fold properly, a large oversight in the last model's cabin, and you can now open the boot from the outside without using the key. Front legroom is a little limited though for tall passengers, and as the Carens is not as tall as some rivals and has quite a dark cabin, it doesn't feel particularly airy. The sunroof restricts headroom a bit, but does let in more light. Storage and stowage solutions are provided: an overhead console with sunglasses holder, centre console with double cupholder and underfloor storage with removable tray, so you can stash your oddments out of the way. A minimal stereo with six speakers and a radio/cassette is offered as standard; SE models gain an in-dash CD player. A six-CD stacker system is a £195 option, and is fitted under the driver's seat: this should give acceptable sound quality, though it may have a few initial operational glitches - the system tested swallowed our CDs and jammed. Satellite navigation is an additional £993 plus fitting costs: this is a useful turn-by-turn aid with a small screen, but not full colour mapping.
