Kia Carnival

Inside, the Kia Carnival comes with a minimalist yet premium-looking cabin that offers a blend of soft-touch panels and high-tech features. Up front, the driver is greeted by a 12.3-inch LCD multifunction display, a 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel with multiple controls (with heating function for the SX+ Turbo Hybrid trim), and a modern-looking rotary-type gear shifter for the hybrid trims (ICE-powered SX Diesel gets the standard leather gear shift knob). Owners of the top-of-the-line SX+ Turbo Hybrid also get a heads-up display.

For entertainment and information accessibility, this GUV features another 12.3-inch central touchscreen display that has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth Hands-Free with voice control, and is linked to a 4-speaker sound system with 2 tweeters. For added driver and passenger convenience, the SX trims are also fitted with a mobile phone wireless charger.

In terms of comfort and practicality, its cabin comfortably accommodates seven passengers, while the trunk boasts an impressive maximum luggage capacity of up to 2,785 liters. The SX trims offer leather seats, whereas the EX Turbo Hybrid variant gets the leatherette version. For elevated comfort, the SX trims also come with second-row power-reclining relaxation seats with a ventilation function. Regardless of material, its seats are well-cushioned and supportive, offering great comfort even on long-distance trips out of town. 

The Kia Carnival’s design strikes a balance between boldness and elegance. At the front, its confident-looking fascia is flanked by scythe-like LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and is enhanced by a huge, imposing black-and-chrome radiator grille in the middle. The top-of-the-line SX+ Turbo Hybrid variant features 4-cube LED projection headlamps, while the SX Diesel and EX Turbo Hybrid trims get the multi-faced reflector LED version. This GUV is also equipped with LED front fog lamps for enhanced illumination at all times. All trims get a two-tone front bumper, while the SX+ Turbo Hybrid and SX Diesel flaunt additional chrome trimmings on their front skid plate. 

Moreover, the Carnival looks more like an SUV than a traditional MPV from the side. This GUV is fitted with body-coloured, electrically-adjustable mirrors with a heating function, as well as dual power sliding doors, which give its silhouette a smart, modern touch. The SX+ Turbo Hybrid and SX Diesel variants run on 19-inch alloy wheels, while the EX Turbo Hybrid gets the 18-inch counterparts.

Trailing behind this GUV at night is enjoyable, thanks to its distinctive T-shaped LED rear combination lamps. Its rear end is further illuminated by another pair of LED fog lamps and an LED high-mount third stop lamp. All variants come with a power tailgate (SX trims also get an additional walk-away closing function) for easier loading and unloading of cargo. And, similar to the front end, it sports a two-tone rear bumper and a rear skid plate with chrome trimmings. 

In terms of dimensions, the Kia Carnival model line measures 5,155 mm in length, 1,995 mm in width, and 3,090 mm in wheelbase. The hybrid variants measure 1,750 mm in height and offer a 172-mm minimum ground clearance, while the ICE-powered trim is 1,740-mm tall and sits 162 mm above the ground. The SX trims get a dual sunroof setup for a more upscale vibe and functionality.

The Kia Carnival model line comes with MacPherson Struts at the front and a Multi-Link at the rear. This suspension setup enhances this GUV’s overall versatility. It soaks up bumps and other road imperfections with ease while remaining sharp and confident through twists and turns. While it may not be the easiest vehicle to maneuver through tight traffic and narrow streets, the Carnival is still quite nimble to handle for its size. Plus, its advanced driver assistance systems also lend you the confidence to navigate around the city. 

The Kia Carnival model line offers two powertrain options. First, the ICE-powered SX trim is propelled by Kia’s Smartstream Diesel 2.2L inline 4-cylinder CRDI VGT engine that produces a maximum power output of 202 PS and a maximum torque output of 440 Nm. The diesel-powered trim comes mated to Kia’s Smartstream 8-speed automatic transmission system.

Meanwhile, the Turbo Hybrid variants are powered by Kia’s HEV - Gamma II technology that combines a 1.6L turbocharged engine, delivering 180 PS and 265 Nm of torque, with a permanent magnet synchronous motor, generating 73.4 PS and 304 Nm. Combined, its entire turbo hybrid powertrain produces 245 PS of power and 366.8 Nm of torque. The turbo hybrid trims run on Kia’s Smartstream 6-speed automatic transmission.

All trims utilize a front-wheel drivetrain and are equipped with four driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Regardless of the powertrain, the Kia Carnival is a capable high-speed cruiser, performing quick highway overtakes and taking on steep inclines with ease. While its hybrid system may not be the most seamless out there, it still offers fairly smooth, linear power delivery off the line. 

That said, if you are aiming for a more exhilarating feel on the open road, then the SX Diesel variant arguably has the advantage. However, if you prioritize efficiency and range, then going for the Turbo Hybrid trims is a no-brainer. 

In terms of safety, all Kia Carnival variants are equipped with front and rear parking sensors (SX trims also come with side sensors), a 360-degree surround view camera with dynamic guidelines, cruise control (SX trims get the smart version), parking collision-avoidance assist, and blind spot detection. The SX trims also get lane keeping assist, lane following assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and rear cross traffic alert.

Moreover, all variants are equipped with front ventilated disc brakes. The Turbo Hybrid trims also come with a ventilated disc brake at the rear, while the diesel-powered variant gets a solid disc. This GUV’s braking setup is supported by an anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, and hill-start assist control. 

The Kia Carnival remains an excellent choice for families, offering a spacious, comfortable interior, refined design, and impressive practicality. It is immensely versatile for its size, balancing driving enjoyment and advanced technology with everyday usability.