2009 Kia Carens vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Kia Carens. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Kia Carens would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2009 Kia Carens. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 594 kg more than 2009 Kia Carens. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Carens. (189 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Carens.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Carens | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Kia | Chevrolet |
| Model | Carens | Traverse |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 2113 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
