2022 Kia Carnival Review: Pricing, Specs, Trims & Interior

February 21, 2022 Steve Jones

Kia’s minivan has undergone such a radical transformation that the vehicle has been given a brand-new name: Carnival. The Carnival, which will replace the aging Sedona in Kia’s range in 2022, has a boxy SUV-like design that is not by chance; the Korean manufacturer is hoping to capitalize on the popularity of its highly praised popular-selling Telluride SUV, which will be replaced by the Carnival. We are reminded of a Range Rover thanks to the large wheels, crossover-like proportions, and characteristic daytime running lights that flow into the grille. All Carnival models are powered by a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine with front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which is standard on all of the company’s vehicles. A slew of driver-assistance functions, including automatic emergency braking, are included as standard equipment on the car. The infotainment system receives an update with an available dual-display arrangement that provides digital gauges and a navigation-equipped center touchscreen. The Carnival is a significantly more engaging minivan compared to the model it replaces. It has won a coveted position on our Editors’ Choice list for 2018.

What’s New in the Year 2022?

The Carnival is completely revamped for 2022, with a revised look, amenities, and technology to help it better compete against minivans like the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, and the newly remodeled Toyota Sienna.

2022 Kia Carnival Specifications

Price: $33,555
Engine: 3.5L Regular Unleaded V-6 Engine
Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
Fuel Mileage: 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway
Seating Capacity: 8 seaters
Horsepower: 290 hp
Torque: 262
Length: 203 inches
Height: 69.9 inches
Width: 78.5 inches
Steering Type: Rack-Pinion
Front Suspension Type: Strut
Rear Suspension Type: Multi-Link

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Pricing and Choosing Which One to Purchase

The Carnival will be available in four trim levels, ranging from the value-oriented LX to the luxurious SX-Prestige. However, it looks like the EX represents the sweet spot between features and pricing. At the same time, the LX appears to reflect the value-oriented LX. In addition to a power-operated rear liftgate and an in-cabin intercom system, the EX trim includes a voice-control system that allows passengers in the backseat to issue commands to the Carnival’s infotainment system. The EX trim includes a power-operated rear liftgate and an in-cabin intercom system.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance are all critical considerations for the 2022 Kia Carnival

The Carnival 2022 is driven by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces a robust 290 horsepower, and an eight-speed automatic gearbox is standard. Unfortunately, all-wheel drive will not be available on the Carnival since the vehicle will only be available as a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The Pacifica has an optional plug-in hybrid engine. The new-for-2021 Sienna is exclusively available as a hybrid. Still, we don’t anticipate Kia to offer a plug-in hybrid powertrain on the Carnival, at least not shortly. According to Kia, the Carnival can tow up to 3500 pounds. At the time of our first test drive, we were delighted with the Carnival’s well-balanced ride and handling characteristics. It provided a pleasant ride when cruising, and it maintained its composure through turns. On our testing grounds, the Carnival’s smooth V-6 engine delivers brisk acceleration, propelling it from a standstill to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds.

Fuel economy and real-world miles per gallon (MPG)

The EPA estimates that the 2022 Carnival will get 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the interstate, and 22 mpg combined, which is somewhat better than the 2021 Sedona’s figures. Our 75-mph highway fuel-efficiency test hasn’t yet been performed on the 2022 Carnival to see how it compares against the Pacifica, Odyssey, and Sienna. Still, we’ll post the findings of that test here as soon as they are available. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website for additional information about Carnival’s fuel efficiency.

Interior, comfort, and cargo space are all critical considerations for Kia Carnival 2022

Its dashboard and front-seat area are more contemporary and welcoming than those on board the Sedona, which is being replaced. The addition of a wide centre console and an optional dual-screen infotainment system with a digital gauge display, both inspired by Mercedes, are major design alterations. Luxury features like leather upholstery and reclining second-row seats with pop-up footrests are included in the SX-Prestige trim level. It is optional to add a panoramic sunroof, which offers an expansive opening over the second row, allowing the children to enjoy some fresh air. Kia claims that the new Carnival’s interior space has been increased due to the vehicle’s increased wheelbase and the total length, which allows for ideal space for both passengers and goods. The carry-on luggage could fit behind the third row of seats in our testing, and a total of 48 could be accommodated with all seats retracted in the overall test. That’s a lot of cargo room, although it’s worth noting that both the Pacifica and the Odyssey were found to be significantly more accommodating.

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List of Kia Carnival Interior Colors

Off-Black and Tuscan Umber Two-Tone Leather
Off-Black and Gray Two-Tone Leather
Off-Black and Gray Two-Tone Syntex
Off-Black and Saddle Brown Two-Tone Syntex
Off-Black and Tuscan Umber Two-Tone Syntex
Off-Black and Gray Two-Tone Cloth

The Exterior of the 2022 Kia Carnival

This car is ideal if you want an eye-catching appearance, cutting-edge technological features, special safety requirements, and a well-equipped infotainment system. The Kia Carnival is scheduled to be on sale in the second quarter of 2022. The 3.5L V6 gasoline engine in this multifunctional vehicle generates 290 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, which is sufficient for most tasks. On the other hand, are you more interested in knowing the inside and exterior color choices available for the 2022 Kia Carnival? At Auffenberg Kia in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, we have the answers you’re looking for right here on our website. Please take a moment to review the exterior color choices for the 2022 Kia Carnival shown below before proceeding to the online inventory page.

The exterior color options:

Astra Blue
Flare Red
Silky Silver
Snow White Pearl
Ceramic Silver
Deep Chroma Blue
Aurora Black Pearl
Panthera Metal

2022 Kia Carnival trim levels

2022 Kia Carnival LX Trim Level – $32,100

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
7-Passenger Seating
Kia Smart Key with Push Button Start
Remote Start
7 USB Ports
Sliding and Removable 2nd-Row Seats
LED Headlights
8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
Apple CarPlay
Android Auto

2022 Kia Carnival LX with Seat Package Trim Level – $34,100

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
8-Passenger Seating
Kia Syntex Interior
8-Inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
Apple CarPlay
Android Auto
Kia Smart Key with Push Button and Remote Start
Rear Park Distance Warning – Reverse Sensors
Heated Front Seats
2nd-Row Center Free Mode Seat

2022 Kia Carnival EX Trim Level – $37,600

19-Inch Alloy Wheels
8-Passenger Seating
Smart Power Tailgate
Passenger View Cabin Camera System
Passenger Talk Cabin Intercom
12.3-Inch Kia UVO Touchscreen Infotainment System
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Wireless Phone Charger
Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control
Kia Syntex Interior

2022 Kia Carnival SX Trim Level – $41,100

19-Inch Black Alloy Wheels
8-Passenger Seating
Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control
Dual Screen Rear Seat Entertainment System
12.3-Inch Kia UVO Touchscreen Infotainment System
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Wireless Charger
Surround View Monitor
Blind Spot View Monitor
Heated and Cooled Front Seats
Kia Syntex Interior

2022 Kia Carnival SX Prestige Trim Level – $46,100

19-Inch Black Alloy Wheels
7-Passenger Seating
2nd-Row VIP Lounge Seats
12.3-Inch Kia UVO Touchscreen Infotainment System
12-Speaker Bose® Sound System
12.3-Inch Digital Instrument Cluster
Heated and Cooled 2nd-Row Seats
Leather Interior
Dual Power Tilt and Slide Sunroofs
Dual Screen Rear Seat Entertainment System

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Information and communication technology (ICT)

The Carnival of 2022 will significantly advance interior technology and electronics. The primary infotainment screen is 8.0 inches in size, but twin 12.3-inch screens that span two-thirds of the van’s dashboard are available. One of the 12.3-inch panels serves as a digital gauge display, while the other serves as an infotainment screen. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included as standard features. The Carnival ship’s stateroom is equipped with up to nine USB connections. Although a rear-seat entertainment system is included on all models beginning with the SX trim, a 12-speaker Bose radio is only available on the SX-Prestige trim, which is the highest-spec.

As a result, Kia includes a more significant number of standard driver-assistance features in the Carnival, including lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and blind-spot monitoring. These features, along with others, will help the Carnival compete with rivals such as the Pacifica, Odyssey, and Sienna.

Warranty and maintenance services

Kia’s warranty outperforms its competitors, with powertrain insurance that lasts for ten years or 100,000 miles. On the other hand, the Carnival does not have any free planned maintenance, as does the Sienna offers.

FAQs About 2022 Kia Carnival

Does the 2022 Kia Carnival have 11 seats?

You may have to wait a bit before you can get your hands on the Kia Carnival 11-seater since the company is unclear if or when it will be available on the United States market. The Kia Carnival (not the Grand Carnival 11-seater) in 2022, on the other hand, can accommodate up to eight people, which is still plenty of room for your large group.

Is the 2022 Kia Carnival a van or SUV?

Kia refers to its 2022 Kia Carnival as a multi-purpose vehicle. Still, in truth, it’s a state-of-the-art minivan dressed up as a sport utility vehicle (SUV). Aside from the conventional sliding side door, what distinguishes it as a minivan is the spacious third-row seating lacking in so many SUVs.

Is Kia Carnival worth buying?

Yes, the Kia Carnival is an excellent minivan in terms of performance. This vehicle has a competent V6 engine, decent gas consumption, and a comfortable ride and calm handling. The inside is well-designed, with high-quality materials and three rows of comfortable and spacious seats. Many cargo spaces, including a class-leading amount behind the third-row seats, make this a practical vehicle.

Is the Kia Carnival 2022 AWD?

Everything is new for 2022, as the Carnival will take the place of the Sedona. Specifications and technology: Power is sent to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine. There is no option for all-wheel drive (AWD).

How much is a 2022 Kia Carnival prestige?

The high-end 2022 Kia Carnival SX Prestige starts at $47,275, making it the most expensive vehicle in the lineup. The car also has a heated steering wheel, a 12.3-inch driver information display, and a 12-speaker premium sound system, among other features. The 2022 Kia Carnival SX Prestige is equipped with second-row captain’s chairs that recline in a lounge-style position and twin sunroofs.

Conclusion

The all-new Carnival for 2022 is boldly inventive and unquestionably flexible, and it is to keep up with your high-octane lifestyle. Power and cargo capacity that are best-in-class, a suite of driver-assist technology, practical family-focused improvements, and an SUV-inspired design make this an exciting departure from the norm.

The all-new Kia Carnival, which will debut in 2022, will replace the Sedona minivan, also known as an MPV (multi-purpose vehicle). We live in an age so dominated by SUVs and crossovers that some people may have forgotten that the MPV — often known as the minivan — is still in production. However, vehicles such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Pacifica continue to satisfy the specific demands of prominent families.

The Sedona was also engaged in this activity, and it was doing an excellent job of it. However, Carnival 2022, a new generation of MPV, has already surpassed its sales.

Kia wants to change the terminology used to refer to MPVs and minivans because, well, the minivan world isn’t nearly as fascinating as the world of full versions of sport sedans or jaw-droppingly competent trucks. Furthermore, the MPV designation does not carry the same connotations of suburbanism as the minivan designation.

With its class-leading cabin and cargo capacity, the new Carnival will be an ideal option when it comes to transporting up to eight passengers in safety and luxury. Many innovative safety systems are present as standard, and the vehicle’s outstanding 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain guarantee adds to the sense of security.