Review: 2022 KIA Carnival SX Prestige

Riddle me this Batman ... What do you get when you take the front half of a minivan and mate it to the back half of a full-size SUV? You get the all-new from the ground up 2022 Kia Carnival Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV). This vehicle is a game changer like the minivan was many decades ago and the station wagon before it. The Carnival nameplate is not new for Kia, as it dates back to 1998, but it was never used in North America in favor of the Sedona name that was introduced in 2001. Kia is so proud of the new Carnival, they have allowed it to be the first vehicle sold in the U.S. to carry the new KIA logo on its sculpted hood.

This MPV is the vehicle that families on the go are searching for that combines all the day-to-day conveniences and roominess of a minivan with design elements and quality materials of a luxury sedan to create a refined and sophisticated interior space. There are many things to like about this new design front-wheel drive vehicle like its ride and handling capability. You can easily maneuver in and out of suburban traffic because of its quick and nimble turning radius that is similar to a compact SUV.

The new Carnival will also replace the stowing and hauling capability of a full-size SUV because it is underpinned by an all-new third generation N3 platform. The Kia's engineers made sure the new platform was lighter, stronger, and quieter than the outgoing architecture which allows for a quieter and smooth as glass ride. This new third generation platform also allows the Carnival to have a tow capacity rating of 3,500 lbs; and when you add the 3.5L Smartstream G3.5 GDi V6 that produces 290 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque with an 8-speed transmission, this MPV easily allows for many weekend adventures that include towing a couple jet skis, a boat or even a camper.

One of the more crazy cool features I found was the second row captain's chairs (see image) which fully recline like a home lounge chair; so if you have teenagers, you can put them to work driving while you kick back and relax and watch your favorite streaming show on the headrest screen. The Kia Carnival has a starting MSRP of $32,900, and the one shown is priced out at $47,700. If you are looking to be the first to drive a vehicle that is a disrupter like the minivan and station wagon were for decades, then you need to go test drive a Carnival and see all the luxury, style, and adventure it has to offer.

The Kia Carnival is here to disrupt a staid segment and proves once again what is possible when conventions are shattered. With its SUV-like character, our new multi-purpose vehicle delivers a combination of premium design, intelligent packaging, and an abundance of innovation in safety and technology. For these reasons, the Carnival is the first vehicle to proudly wear our all-new Kia badge and is a bold signal of things to come.

Sean Yoon, Ppresident & CEO, Kia Motors North America, Kia Motors America

In the News

Source: KIA | The all-new 2022 Kia Carnival Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) replaces the outgoing Sedona to become a multifaceted and unexpected companion. Staking claim on the unoccupied space between SUV and family hauler, the Carnival arrives with a new name and is the first vehicle to be sold in the U.S. with Kia's new logo proudly displayed on its sculpted hood. It pushes the boundaries on expected fronts in much the same way the Kia K5 did to redefine what a midsize sedan should be. Penned at Kia's California design studio, the Carnival wears a bold and boxy appearance and conveys the visual language found on the brand's recent and highly successful line of rugged utility vehicles - Telluride, Sorento, and Seltos. Inside, the three-row seven- or eight-passenger MPV delivers a premium level of refinement, savvy technology, and flexibility. And with best-in-class passenger room and best-in-class cargo room there is enough space to accommodate people, playthings, or plywood, depending on the day's errands or adventures. The Carnival is motivated by a 3.5-liter V6 engine making a best-in-class 290 horsepower. This powertrain provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity for confident trailer, boat, or camper excursions. And that confidence is amplified by an expansive roster of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)1. Together, these elements make Carnival an exceptional combination of modern design, capability, safety and luxury. The 2022 Carnival will be offered in four trim levels: LX, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige.

Specifications

Engine: 290 horsepower 3.5L V6 Direct Injection Lambda
Torque: 262 pound-feet
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Wheels: 19" Alloy
Sound: Bose Premium Audio System
Color: Astra Blue
Fuel: 19/26/22 (mpg city/highway/combined)
MSRP (starts): $46,100
MSRP (shown): $47,770

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
KIA

About KIA

Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the Official Automotive Partner of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electrified vehicles sold through a network of nearly 750 dealers in the U.S. including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America.