A proper head-to-head in South Africa — compare price, performance,
fuel economy or electric range, safety and the details that shape long-term ownership.
Carens and GR Corolla are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Carens starts ZAR 416,505 cheaperCarens from ZAR 399,995 · GR Corolla from ZAR 816,500
Five key differences
Exact selected derivatives
Swipe sideways to compare every column
Specification
Carens
GR Corolla
Maximum Power
Carens85 kW @ 4000 rpm
GR Corolla224 kW
Maximum Torque
Carens250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
GR Corolla390 Nm
Engine Size
Carens1493 cc
GR Corolla1618 cc
Combined Fuel Economy
Carens18.9 km/l
GR Corolla11.2 km/l
Ground Clearance
Carens180 mm
GR Corolla155 mm
Strongest published figure in that row; no road-test winner is implied.
Independent editorial assessment
Hagalu editorial ratings
When a variant is selected, its rating out of five applies only to that exact derivative; a model-range review is not inherited. Editorial ratings are separate from the Specification Evidence Index out of 100 and are not customer ratings.
KIA Carens
1.5D SX Auto
Hagalu editorial rating
4.4/5★★★★★★★★★★
Desk research · Exact variant
Hagalu Editorial Team ·
Editorial assessment, not a customer rating. Not road-tested for this review.
Not yet rated means a complete review is not published; it does not mean the vehicle scored zero. Read the rating methodology.
What Each Car Gets Right (and Wrong)
Carens
Strengths
Better fuel efficiency
Stronger published practicality figures
Stronger published ownership cover
Weak Spots
Less powerful engine setup
Fewer listed safety features
Best suited to:Published EfficiencyPublished Practicality
Specification evidence leader
GR Corolla
Strengths
More powerful engine output
Stronger listed safety equipment
Weak Spots
Lower fuel efficiency
Lower published practicality figures
Lower published ownership cover
Best suited to:Published Performance
Which One's Right for You?
Carens
Buyers prioritising the lower published fuel or energy use
Buyers prioritising the stronger published space and capacity figures
Buyers prioritising the stronger published warranty or service cover
GR Corolla
Buyers prioritising the stronger published powertrain figures
Buyers prioritising the more complete listed safety equipment
Full Specs, Side by Side
Open a category, then swipe sideways to compare every column
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Intercooler
Yes
-
Rev Matching
No
-
Performance Data Logger
No
-
Engine Start Stop
Yes
Standard
Engine Start Stop Button
Yes
Standard
Engine Start Button Illumination
Yes
Standard
Engine Check Warning
Yes
-
Drag Coefficient
0.34
-
Roof Load
50 kg
-
Boot Space Seats Folded
1660 l
217 l
Stabilizer Bar
Yes
Front and Rear
Steering Response
Normal
-
Skid Plates
No
Not Available
Side Steps
No
-
Spare Wheel
Temporary Spare
Not Available
Tyre Repair Kit
No
-
Seatbelt Pre Tensioner
Yes
-
Hill Start Assist
Yes
Standard
Speed Limiter
Yes
-
Speed Alert System
Yes
-
Impact Sensing Door Unlock
Yes
-
Surround View Monitor
Yes
Not Available
Adaptive Dampers
No
-
Wireless Charging
Yes
Standard
Voice Command
Yes
Standard
Voice Command Support
Yes
Standard
Digital Speedometer
Yes
Standard
Driver Display
Digital Cluster
-
Heads Up Display
Yes
-
Tachometer
Yes
-
Trip Computer
Yes
-
Multi Function Steering
Yes
-
Steering Mounted Controls
Yes
-
Air Conditioning
Yes
Dual-Zone Auto AC
Climate Control
Yes
Dual-Zone Auto AC
Climate Zones
2
Dual-Zone Auto AC
Rear Air Conditioning
Yes
-
Glovebox Cooling
No
-
Seat Type
Leather Seats
Morizo Edition Suede / Alcantara
Driver Seat Height Adjustment
Yes
-
Rear Seat Split
Yes
Standard
Headrest Adjustable
Yes
-
Front Armrest
Yes
Standard
Vanity Mirror
Yes
-
12V Accessory Socket
Yes
-
Front Power Outlet
Yes
-
Rear Reading Lamps
Yes
-
Keyless Entry
Yes
Standard
Push Button Start
Yes
Standard
Push Button Start
Yes
Standard
Remote Engine Start
No
-
Remote Start
No
-
Remote Central Locking
Yes
Standard
Door Ajar Warning
Yes
-
Fuel Lid Opener
Remote
-
Boot Opener
Remote
-
Power Windows
Yes
All Doors
Power Mirrors
Yes
All Doors
Heated Mirrors
Yes
-
Electric Folding Mirrors
Yes
All Doors
Electric Mirror Folding
Yes
-
Remote Side Mirror
Yes
-
Auto Dimming Irvm
No
-
Auto Dimming Mirror
No
-
Rain Sensing Wipers
Yes
Standard
Rear Window Defroster
Yes
-
Rear Defogger
Yes
-
Follow Me Home Headlamps
Yes
-
Tail Lamps
Yes
-
Automatic Headlamps
Yes
Standard
Headlamp Height Adjust
Yes
-
Headlamp Washer
No
-
Panoramic Roof
No
Not Available
Roof Antenna
Yes
-
Rear Wing
Yes
Standard
Aero Kit
No
-
Chrome Grille
Yes
-
Chrome Exterior Highlights
No
-
Ride Mode Selection
Yes
-
Electric Tailgate
No
Not Available
Powered Tailgate
No
Not Available
Service Reminder
Yes
-
Trim Level
flagship
flagship
Variant Role
Flagship / premium derivative
Flagship / premium derivative
Accelerator 0 100
11.5 sec
4.6 sec
Common Rail Injection
Common Rail Direct Injection
Direct Injection
Diff Lock
No
-
Difflock
No
-
Vdc
Yes
Standard
TPMS
Yes
Standard
Sonar
Yes
Rear
Automatic High Beam
Yes
-
Steering Column Adjustment
Tilt and Telescopic
Tilt and Telescopic
Tilt Steering
Tilt and Telescopic
Tilt and Telescopic
Telescopic Steering
Tilt and Telescopic
Tilt and Telescopic
Bottle Holders
4
-
Glove Box
Yes
-
Manual Aircon
Yes
Dual-Zone Auto AC
Intelligent Keyless Entry
Yes
Standard
Passive Entry Start
Yes
Standard
Wireless Charger
Yes
Standard
Lift Gate
No
Not Available
Electric Fold Indicator Mirrors
Yes
-
Power Socket 12v
Yes
-
Sound System
8
6
Roof Rack Compatibility
Yes
Not Available
Mirror
Electric
All Doors
Stabilizer Bar Front
Yes
Front and Rear
Stabilizer Bar Rear
Yes
-
Sub Frame
Unibody
-
Vehicle To Grid
Not Available
Not Available
Vehicle To Load
Not Available
Not Available
One Pedal Driving
Not Available
Not Available
Regenerative Braking Levels
Not Available
Not Available
Rear Electric Motor
Not Available
Not Available
Battery Preconditioning
Not Available
Not Available
Load Bed Cover
Not Available
Not Available
Tailgate Lock
Not Available
Not Available
Sports Bar
Not Available
Not Available
Canopy Fitment
Not Available
Not Available
Bed Extender
Not Available
Not Available
Source Model Column
carens
gr-corolla
Intelligent Battery System
Not Available
Not Available
Front Diff Lock
Not Available
-
Rear Diff Lock
Not Available
-
Loadbox Depth Mm
Not Available
Not Available
Load Bed Light
Not Available
Not Available
Load Bed Steps
Not Available
Not Available
Loadbox Rope Hooks
Not Available
Not Available
Loadbox Tiedown Brackets
Not Available
Not Available
Tailgate Damper
Not Available
Not Available
Tow Bar Type
Not Available
Not Available
Sport Plus Mode
Not Available
-
Unlocking
Yes
Standard
Walk Away Lock
Yes
Standard
Walk Away Auto Door Lock
Yes
Standard
Rear LED Combination Taillights
Yes
-
Front Wiper
Yes
-
Front Wipers Type
Yes
-
Rearview Mirror Inside
No
-
Vanity Mirror Illuminated
Yes
-
Reading Lights Rear
Yes
-
Centre Console
Centre Armrest
Standard
Side Impact Bars
Yes
-
Boot Space Seats Folded
1660 l
217 l
Load Bed Length
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Load Bed Width
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Loadbox Length Mm
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Loadbox Width Mm
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Fuel Consumption Combined
5.3
9.5
AC Type
Yes
Dual-Zone Auto AC
Sunroof
No
Not Available
Engine Warranty
5 Years / Unlimited km
5 Years / 150,000 km
Rim Size
215/55 R17
Standard
Trailer Stability Assist
-
Confirmed 4WD derivative
Trailer Sway Control
-
Confirmed 4WD derivative
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Fuel Octane Requirement
B7 Diesel
Petrol
Variable Valve Timing
No
-
Particulate Filter
DPF
Not Available
Fuel Evaporation Control
No
-
Green NCAP Rating
4
-
Start Stop System
Yes
-
Euro Emission Standard
Euro 6
Euro 6
Noise Level
67 dB
-
Hybrid System Type
Not Available
Not Available
Idle CO2 Output
139
222
CO2 Emissions
139 g/km
222 g/km
CO2 Emissions G Km
139
222
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
AdBlue Tank Capacity
No
Not Applicable
Real-world Mileage
18.9 km/l
11.2 km/l
Auto Start Stop
Yes
Not Applicable
Emission Standard
Euro 6
Euro 6
Low Fuel Warning
Yes
-
Charging Port Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Electric Consumption
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Charging Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Combined Driving Range
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Range Real World Highway
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Range Real World Mixed
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Claimed Mileage
18.9 km/l
11.2 km/l
City Mileage
15.3 km/l
9.2 km/l
Highway Mileage
22.1 km/l
10.0 km/l
Fuel Tank Capacity
45 l
50 l
Fuel Tank Litres
45
50
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Engine Position
Front Transverse
-
Number of Gears
6
6
Gear Shift Type
Automatic
6-Speed Manual
Gear Shift Indicator
No
Not Applicable
Clutch Type
Dry Dual Clutch
Not Applicable
Paddle Shifters
Yes
No
Final Drive Ratio
3.63
Not Applicable
Drivetrain
FWD
AWD GR-FOUR/
Drivetrain Layout
FWD
AWD
Differential Lock
No
Not Applicable
LSD Available
No
Front and Rear Torsen LSD
Steering Turns Lock to Lock
15.1:1
-
Transmission Speeds
6
6
Axle Layout
FWD
AWD
Automatic Shift Paddles
Yes
No
4WD Engagement
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
4WD Hi Range
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
4WD Lo Range
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Transfer Case
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Transfer Case Guard
Not Available
-
Low Range
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Low Range Ratio
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Front Differential Lock
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Rear Differential Lock
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
4WD Selector
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Differential Type Front
Not Available
-
Differential Type Rear
Not Available
-
Gearbox
6-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Manual
Transmission Type
Automatic Transmission
Manual
Gearbox Type
6-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Manual
Drive Mode Selector
-
4WD/off-road drive mode support
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Engine Immobiliser
Yes
Standard
Engine Immobiliser
Yes
Standard
Brake Override System
Yes
Not Available
Tyre Pressure Monitor
Yes
Standard
Driver Airbag
Yes
8
Passenger Airbag
Yes
8
Side Airbags
Yes
Not Available
Curtain Airbags
Yes
Not Available
Side Impact Beams
Yes
-
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Yes
Not Available
Seatbelt Reminder
Yes
Not Available
Seatbelt Warning All Seats
Yes
Not Available
Whiplash Protection
Yes
-
ABS
Yes
Standard
BA
Yes
Standard
EBD
Yes
Standard
Brake Assist
Yes
Standard
Electronic Stability Control
Yes
Standard
Stability Control
Yes
Standard
TCS
Yes
Standard
Traction Control
Yes
Standard
Hill Hold
Yes
Standard
Hill Start Assist
Yes
Standard
Hill Descent Control
Not Available
Not Available
AEB
Yes
Standard
Pedestrian Detection AEB
Yes
-
Lane Change Warning
Yes
-
Blind Spot Monitoring
Yes
Standard
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Yes
Not Available
Fatigue Detection
Yes
-
Speed Alert System
Yes
-
Child Safety Lock
Yes
Standard
Safety Rating
5
-
ISOFIX Mounts
Yes
Standard
Front Parking Sensors
Yes
Not Available
Central Locking
Yes
Standard
Alarm System
Yes
Standard
ABS EBD
Yes
Standard
ESC With Traction Control
Yes
Standard
Anti Theft Alarm
Yes
Standard
Airbags
6
8
Knee Airbag
No
Not Available
Driver Front Passenger Airbags
6
8
Driver Passenger Airbags
6
8
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Alternator
Yes
-
Engine Oil Capacity
4.5 l
-
Engine Oil Change Interval
15000
-
Service Plan
3 Years / 45,000 km
3 Years / 45,000 km
Service Plan Duration
3 Years / 45,000 km
3 Years / 45,000 km
Service Plan Distance
3 Years / 45,000 km
3 Years / 45,000 km
Maintenance Plan
3 Years / 45,000 km
3 Years / 45,000 km
Service Interval
15000
-
First Service At
15000
-
Approx Service Cost
R3,800 per service
-
Anti-Rust Treatment
Yes
-
Service Intervals
15000
-
Battery Warranty
-
5 Years / 150,000 km
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Real-world City Mileage Min
12.5 l/100km
10 l/100km
Real-world City Mileage Max
16.2 l/100km
13 l/100km
Real-world Highway Mileage Min
19.1 l/100km
7.5 l/100km
Real-world Highway Mileage Max
22.3 l/100km
9.5 l/100km
Owner Review Count
-
4
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
EV Mode
No
Not Available
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Yes
Standard
Forward Collision Warning
Yes
Not Available
Lane Departure Warning
Yes
Standard
Lane Keep Assist
Yes
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring
Yes
Standard
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Yes
Not Available
Driver Fatigue Alert
Yes
Not Available
Adaptive Cruise Control
Yes
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
Yes
Standard
Cruise Control
Yes
Standard
Traffic Sign Recognition
No
Not Available
Auto Highbeam
Yes
Not Available
Reversing Camera
Yes
Standard
Rear View Camera
Yes
Standard
Reverse Camera
Yes
Standard
Rear Parking Sensors
Yes
Rear
Parking Sensors
Yes
Rear
Park Assist
Yes
Not Available
360 Degree Camera
Yes
Not Available
Auto Wipers
Yes
Standard
Auto Lights
Yes
Standard
Eco Mode
Yes
-
Sport Mode
Yes
-
Blind Spot Warning
Yes
Standard
Emergency Braking
Yes
Standard
Pre-Collision System
Yes
Standard
Rear View Camera
Yes
Standard
Reverse Camera Type
Yes
Standard
Around View Monitor
Yes
Not Available
Surround View Camera
Yes
Not Available
Parking Distance Sensors
Yes
Rear
Parking Sensor
Yes
Rear
Front Camera
Yes
-
Automatic High Beam
Yes
-
Rain Sensor Wipers
Yes
Standard
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Locking Differential
No
Not Applicable
Approach Angle
16 deg
-
Departure Angle
18 deg
-
Ramp Breakover Angle
16 deg
-
Ramp-over Angle
14 deg
-
Recovery Hooks
No
-
Underbody Protection
No
Not Available
Hill Descent Control
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Modes
Not Available
Not Available
Ground Clearance Min
185 mm
155 mm
Ground Clearance Max
185 mm
155 mm
Off Road Descent Control
Not Available
Not Available
4WD System Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Terrain Response System
Not Available
-
Crawl Control
Not Available
-
Underbody Camera
Not Available
-
Energy Recovery Display
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Mode Mud
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Mode Normal
Not Available
-
Terrain Mode Rock
Not Available
-
Terrain Mode Sand
Not Available
Not Available
Terrain Mode Snow
Not Available
Not Available
Off Road Traction Assist
Not Available
Not Available
Skid Plates Transfer Case
Not Available
-
Skid Plates Fuel Tank
Not Available
-
Front Skid Plate Guard
Not Available
-
Rear Skid Plate Guard
Not Available
-
Approach Angle Deg
16 deg
-
Departure Angle Deg
18 deg
-
Breakover Angle
16 deg
Not Available
Wading Depth
Not Available
-
Wading Depth Mm
-
-
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Wheelbase
2780 mm
2640 mm
Doors
5 doors
5 doors
Seating Capacity
7 seats
5 seats
Ground Clearance (With Full Seating Load)
175 mm
125 mm
Payload Capacity
562 kg
400 kg
Towing Capacity
750 kg
1600 kg
Number of Rows
3 rows
2 rows
Length
4550 mm
4360 mm
Width
1800 mm
1850 mm
Height
1734 mm
1455 mm
Ground Clearance (Default)
180 mm
155 mm
Minimum Turning Radius
5.4 m
5.3 m
Kerb Weight
1488 kg
1370 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)
2050 kg
1770 kg
Front Headroom
1062 mm
991 mm
Rear Headroom
1045 mm
954 mm
Front Legroom
1031 mm
1034 mm
Rear Legroom
928 mm
882 mm
Boot/Cargo Space
216 l
217 l
Fuel Tank Capacity
45 l
50 l
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Body Type
MPV
Hatchback
Wing Mirror Type
Electric
-
Rear Wiper
Yes
-
Led Headlights
Yes
Standard
LED Headlamps
Yes
Standard
Daytime Running Lamps
Yes
Standard
DRL
Yes
Standard
Led Taillights
Yes
-
Fog Lights
Yes
Standard
Fog Lamps
Yes
Standard
Front Fog Lights
Yes
Standard
Rear Fog Lights
Yes
-
Roof Type
Standard
Not Available
Roof Rails
Yes
Not Available
Rear Spoiler
Yes
Standard
Body Cladding
No
-
Chrome Exterior Finish
No
Not Available
Door Handle Finish
Body Colour
-
Exterior Colour Options
Multiple
3
Exterior Colour Options
5
4
Exterior Mirror Electric
Yes
All Doors
Auto Headlights
Yes
Standard
Automatic Headlamps
Yes
Standard
Headlamps
Yes
Standard
Headlights
Yes
Standard
Headlight Type
Yes
Standard
Exterior Mirror Folding
Yes
-
Headlamp Levelling
Yes
Standard
Daytime Running Lights
Yes
Standard
Front Fog Lamps
Yes
Standard
Rear Spoiler
Yes
Standard
Exterior Door Handle Colour
Body Colour
-
Load Bed Liner
Not Available
Not Available
Active Exhaust
Not Available
-
Electric Blind Sunroof
Standard
Not Available
Front Overhang
830 mm
-
Rear Overhang
940 mm
-
Alloy Wheel Design
Alloy
Standard
Panoramic Sunroof
No
Not Available
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Chassis Type
Unibody
-
Front Suspension
MacPherson Strut
MacPherson Strut
Front Spring Type
Coil Spring
MacPherson Strut
Rear Spring Type
Coil Spring
Double Wishbone
Shock Absorber Type
Telescopic
-
Front Anti-Roll Bar
Yes
Front and Rear
Rear Anti-Roll Bar
Yes
-
Power Steering
Yes
Electric
Steering Column
Adjustable
Tilt and Telescopic
Front Suspension Type
MacPherson Strut
MacPherson Strut
Suspension
MacPherson Strut
MacPherson Strut
Shock Absorbers
Telescopic
-
Chassis Material
Unibody
-
MagneRide Damping
Not Available
-
Front Track Width
1563 mm
Not Applicable
Rear Track Width
1587 mm
Not Applicable
Rear Suspension
Coupled Torsion Beam
Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension Type
Coupled Torsion Beam
Double Wishbone
Rear Axle Type
Coupled Torsion Beam
Double Wishbone
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Steering Type
Yes
Electric
Steering Adjustment
Tilt and Telescopic
Tilt and Telescopic
Rear USB Ports
Yes
2
Instrument Cluster Type
Digital
Standard
Steering Wheel Material
Leather
Not Applicable
Rear AC Vents
Yes
-
Heated Seats
Yes
Standard
Cooled Seats
Yes
-
Ventilated Seats
Yes
Standard
Seat Material
Leather
Morizo Edition Suede / Alcantara
Fabric Seats
No
Morizo Edition Suede / Alcantara
Leather Seats
Yes
-
Driver Seat Adjustment
8-Way Power
Manual 8-Way
Adjustable Driver Seat
8-Way Power
Manual 8-Way
Seat Adjustment
8-Way Power
Manual 8-Way
Passenger Seat Adjustment
4-Way Manual
Manual 8-Way
Adjustable Front Seat
4-Way Manual
-
Driver Lumbar Support
Yes
-
Memory Seats
Yes
-
60 40 Split Seat
Yes
Standard
Folding Rear Seats
Yes
Standard
Front Headrest
Adjustable
-
Rear Headrest
Adjustable
-
Front Armrest
Centre Armrest
Standard
Rear Armrest
Yes
-
Door Map Pockets
Yes
-
Cup Holders
4
-
Ambient Lighting
Yes
Standard
Interior Colour Options
Black
3
Interior Courtesy Lamps
7-seat layout with sliding second row (EX+), 10.25-inch touchscreen (EX+), panoramic sunroof (SX), ventilated front seats (SX), digital cluster (SX), full ADAS suite (SX), 6 airbags
GR sport seats, digital display, performance-focused interior with Morizo Circuit Edition upgrades
Boot Space Seats Down
1660
-
Seat Belt Warning
Yes
-
Seat Trim
Leather
Morizo Edition Suede / Alcantara
Leather Accented Seat Trim
Leather
Morizo Edition Suede / Alcantara
Driver Seat
8-Way Power
Manual 8-Way
Seat Fold Type
Yes
Standard
Armrest Front
Centre Armrest
Standard
Armrest Rear
Yes
-
Rear Seat Centre Armrest
Yes
-
Interior Colours
Black
3
Interior Trim Colour
Black
-
Seat Adjustment Driver Backrest
Yes
-
Front Shoulder Room
1421 mm
Not Applicable
Rear Shoulder Room
1441 mm
Not Applicable
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Front Brake Disc Diameter
300 mm
-
Rear Brake Type
Disc
Disc
Brake Type Rear
Disc
Disc
Rear Brake Drum Diameter
262 mm
-
Parking Brake Type
Electronic
-
Front Tyre Width
235 mm
-
Rear Tyre Width
235 mm
-
Wheel Type
Alloy
Standard
Tyre Type
Radial
235/40 R18
Tyre Load Index
107
-
Tyre Speed Rating
H
-
Spare Tyre
Temporary Spare
Not Available
Spare Wheel Type
Temporary Spare
Not Available
Tyre Pressure Monitoring
Yes
Standard
Tyre Pressure Display
Yes
Standard
Hydraulic Brake Assist
Yes
Standard
Autonomous Emergency Brake
Yes
Standard
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
Yes
-
Spare Wheel Size Type
Temporary Spare
Not Available
Handbrake Type
Electronic
Not Applicable
Electric Park Brake
Electronic
-
Fifth Wheel Prep
Not Available
Not Available
Steering Wheel Cruise Controls
Yes
Standard
Steering Wheel Phone Controls
Yes
-
Leather Steering Wheel
Leather
-
Steering Wheel Trim
Leather
-
Brakes
Ventilated Disc
Disc
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Yes
-
Cornering Brake Control
Yes
Standard
Auto Brake Hold
Electronic
-
Front Brake Type
Disc
Disc
Brake Type Front
Disc
Disc
Tyre Size
215/55 R17
235/40 R18
Wheel Rim Size
215/55 R17
Standard
Wheel Diameter
215/55 R17
Standard
Wheel Material
Alloy
Standard
Wheels
Alloy
Standard
Wheel Size Type
215/55 R17
-
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Infotainment Screen
12.3
8-inch Touchscreen
Infotainment Display
12.3
8-inch Touchscreen
Infotainment System
12.3-inch Touchscreen
8-inch Touchscreen
Infotainment Screen Size
12.3
8-inch Touchscreen
Touchscreen
12.3
8-inch Touchscreen
Navigation System
Yes
Standard
Apple CarPlay
Yes
Standard
Wireless Apple CarPlay
Yes
Standard
Android Auto
Yes
Standard
Bluetooth Connectivity
Yes
Standard
USB Ports
4
2
Rear Usb
Yes
2
AUX Input
No
-
Wi-Fi Hotspot
No
-
Number of Speakers
8
6
Premium Audio
Yes
-
FM Radio
Yes
-
Radio
Yes
-
Voice Recognition
Yes
Standard
Digital Instrument Cluster
Yes
Standard
Head Up Display
Yes
-
Audio Controls On Steering
Yes
-
Steering Wheel Audio Controls
Yes
-
Multi Information Display
Digital
Standard
Display Audio
12.3-inch Touchscreen
8-inch Touchscreen
Smartphone Connectivity
Yes
Standard
Connected Services
Yes
Standard
Audio Speakers
8
6
Front Rear USB Charge Ports
4
2
Voice Control
Yes
Standard
Audio
Yes
-
Audio System
Yes
6
Wireless Android Auto
Yes
Standard
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Anti-Corrosion Warranty
5 Years
-
Basic Warranty
5 Years / Unlimited km
3 years / 100 000 km
Warranty Years
5 Years / Unlimited km
3 years / 100 000 km
Roadside Assistance
5 Years / Unlimited km
3 Years
Roadside Assistance
5 Years / Unlimited km
3 Years
Warranty
5 Years / Unlimited km
3 years / 100 000 km
Warranty Roadside Assistance
5 Years / Unlimited km
3 Years
Warranty Kilometers
5 Years / Unlimited km
3 years / 100 000 km
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Body Style
MPV
Hatchback
Model Year
2026
2026
Segment
MPV
Hatchback
Vehicle Type
MPV
Hatchback
Dealer Stock Note
Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup
Flagship grade in the South Africa lineup
Color Note
Clear White, Aurora Black Pearl, Gravity Blue, Pewter Olive, Snow White Pearl
Supersonic Red, White Pearl, Dark Gray
Tare Mass Kg
1745 kg
1370 kg
Facelift Version Ending
Current
Current
Production Status
active
active
Model Introduced Year
2026
2023
Generation
Fourth-generation Kia Carens (KY) facelift; South African launch May 2026
First generation GR Corolla on TNGA-C platform with GR performance upgrades
Facelift History
Current facelift launched in South Africa in May 2026
First generation GR Corolla launched in SA in 2023
Facelift Launched Since
2026
2023
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Ownership Role
Flagship
Flagship
Price Zar
599995 ZAR
876100 ZAR
Pricing Role
Current official retail price
Current listed price
Starting Price
599995
876100
Starting Price Zar
599995
876100
Spec
Carens
GR Corolla
Engine
1.5-litre Turbocharged Diesel
1.6-litre Turbocharged Petrol
Fuel Type
Diesel
Petrol
Hybrid System
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Engine Displacement
1493 cc
1618 cc
Cylinders
4
3
Cylinder Layout
Inline
Inline
Valves
16
12
Valves per Cylinder
4
4
Aspiration
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Fuel System
Common Rail Direct Injection
Direct Injection
Compression Ratio
16.0:1
10.5:1
Bore
75 mm
82.0 mm
Stroke
84.5 mm
94.6 mm
Maximum Power
85 kW @ 4000 rpm
224 kW
Combined Power
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Combined Torque
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Motor Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Number of Motors
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Motor Location
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Drive Type
FWD
AWD
Launch Control
No
No
Battery Capacity
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Usable Battery Capacity
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Battery Type
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Battery Voltage
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Electric Range
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
AC Charging Power
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
DC Charging Power
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
AC Charging Time
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
DC Charging Time
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Regenerative Braking
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
Engine Code
D4FA
Market-specific engine family
Maximum Torque
250 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm
390 Nm
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
6-Speed Manual
Top Speed
170 km/h
250 km/h
0-100 km/h
13.1 sec
4.6 sec
Quarter Mile
18.4 sec
15.5 sec
Drive Modes
No
Eco, Comfort, Sport
Rev Limiter
4500 rpm
6500 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio
57.1 kW/tonne
163.5 kW/tonne
Torque-to-Weight Ratio
168.0 Nm/tonne
284.7 Nm/tonne
In depth: how these cars differ
This Carens and GR Corolla comparison uses the exact derivatives selected above for South Africa. The catalogue index covers performance, efficiency, safety equipment, practicality and ownership cover only where comparable source-backed fields are present.
Performance index: Carens 39 vs GR Corolla 90.
Efficiency index: Carens 72 vs GR Corolla 43.
Safety-equipment index: Carens 93 vs GR Corolla 98.
Practicality index: Carens 56 vs GR Corolla 50.
Ownership-cover index: Carens 54 vs GR Corolla 43.
These figures are Hagalu catalogue-comparison indicators, not customer ratings, crash-test scores, resale guarantees or a substitute for a road test. Each page shows its weighted source coverage beside the result.
Model imagery
Carens and GR Corolla image comparison
Open an image for its full canonical file or visit the model page for the complete vehicle record.
A transparent comparison of published catalogue fields. This is not a road-test score, owner rating or editorial review rating, and it appears only when every vehicle clears the same comparable-data threshold.
Evidence / 100
Evidence-index readout
GR Corolla leads by 6 points
Carens and GR Corolla are close on the comparable published fields, so buyer priorities should decide.
Performance
GR Corolla +51
Efficiency
Carens +29
Safety
GR Corolla +5
Practicality
Carens +6
Ownership
Carens +11
Close catalogue match. Buyer priorities should decide the outcome.
Why this scoreView full breakdown
Evidence-index leader
GR Corolla
Performance
90/100
Efficiency
43/100
Safety
98/100
Practicality
50/100
Ownership
43/100
Carens
Performance
39/100
Efficiency
72/100
Safety
93/100
Practicality
56/100
Ownership
54/100
What the evidence means
Evidence indexToyota GR Corolla
leads the specification evidence index with 68 pts
vs 62 pts for Carens
In Hagalu's specification evidence index, GR Corolla leads. However, Carens may suit buyers prioritising different confirmed fields. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your driving priorities in South Africa.
Related comparisons
Continue with closely related South Africa models and comparable body styles.
There is no universal winner. Use the comparison table to match the models and available derivatives in South Africa on price, safety equipment, space, powertrain and ownership cover. The category indicators summarise published catalogue data; they are not a road test or customer rating.
Compare the published consumption or mileage rows for the exact derivatives using the same unit and test basis. A catalogue figure is useful for like-for-like comparison, but traffic, speed, load, weather and driving style can change actual fuel use.
Compare only equipment explicitly listed for each derivative, including airbags, stability control and driver-assistance systems. Confirm the exact trim with the manufacturer, and treat any independent crash-test result separately because equipment and ratings can differ by market.
A reliable five-year total cannot be calculated from catalogue data alone. Add the exact purchase and finance cost, fuel or electricity, insurance quotes, scheduled servicing, tyres and expected resale value. Check whether the selected derivative includes a service or maintenance plan.
Use the seating, boot or load-space, ISOFIX and safety rows as a first check. Then test the exact cars with your child seats, passengers and typical luggage, because published dimensions do not show every access or comfort difference.
Compare the published power, torque and 0–100 km/h rows when they are available for both exact derivatives. Vehicle weight, gearing and power delivery also matter, so catalogue outputs alone do not establish real-world overtaking or response.
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