Kia Carnival

The minivan named "Carnival" is a KIA product which was introduced in September 1998, as the "First Generation". It was sold with a single, short wheelbase and rear sliding doors. The first generation was manufactured and marketed for some specific regions by Dongfeng Yueda Kia and Naza Ria. In 2005, the second generation was launched under the name Carnival/Sedona in SWB (Short Wheelbase)  and LWB (Long Wheelbase) models.

It had a 2 inch wider front track, 3 inches wider rear track and reduced turning radius compared to the first generation. The Short Wheelbase (SWB) model was made for the European market. The second generation was approximately 400 lbs lighter than the first generation. It had a lighter engine, lighter transmission and rear suspension. In regions like North America and Australia, the minivan was offered with both wheelbases.

The global release offered four engine variants with both automatic and manual transmissions. In 2007, the second generation received Motor Week's "Best Minivan" award and The Car Book's 2007 "Best Bet" distinction. It also ranked 4ty in the "20 least expensive 2008 vehicles to insure" list by Insure.com. The third generation was announced in April 2014 at the New York International Auto Show. In India, the Carnival was launched on February 5, 2020, at the Auto Expo event 2020.

The Carnival Indian version is powered by an aBS6 compliant 2.2 litre CRDi diesel engine with eight-speed levels of automatic transmission. It can deliver a maximum power of 200PS and maximum torque of 440 Nm. There are three namely Premium, Prestige and Limousine. In June 2020, Kia unveiled the fourth generation. South Korea was the first country where it was available. 

Know More About KIA Carnival 

Carnival has three seating options - 7 seater VIP seats, 8 seaters and 9 seaters (6+3). It is offered in three colour variants - Aurora Black Pearl, Glacier White Pearl and Steel Silver. In front are aesthetically crafted LED Headlamp clusters which give the MVP a desirable look. The alloy wheel design looks classy. It has one-touch powered sliding doors to provide a smooth in and out movement. The vertical grilles classic SUV style grille comes in a two-tone colour scheme. 

KIA Carnival Interior and Accessories 

This minivan has the luxurious Napa Leather upholstery and a 10-inch Touchscreen entertainment system for the rear seat passengers, where you can watch your favourite shows. There are leg supports to give you a lounge-like experience. It has a dual sunroof for passengers in every row. Like Seltos, it is also equipped with a Smart air purifier. This is a very useful addition, especially for current situations. The black and beige coloured dual-tone interiors look premium. 

You can use the UVO app to enjoy a list of unique features and connect your smartphone or smartwatch with the 8-inch infotainment system which is equipped with a Harman/Kardon sound system with 8 premium speakers. Carnival has front and rear parking sensors to ensure a safe parking experience. The Hill Start Assist Control is a great feature especially for minivans like this, it prevents the car from rolling back while climbing uphill from a static position. 

Some additional features of KIA Carnival are -

• The dimensions of this MVP car are 5115 mm L × 1985 mm W × 1740 mm H

• It has a wheelbase of 3060 mm

• Carnival offers a boot space of 540 litres

• It has a 2WD drive system

• There are disc brakes at both ends

• The fuel tank is 60 litres

• Carnival has a power steering

• The Minivan has a central locking system

The Pros and Cons of KIA Carnival are -

Pros -

• It may fall under the minivan segment but doesn't look like one! That is a good thing. You won't like your SUV to look like a minivan

• Spacious and flexible interior

• Powerful diesel driven engine

• The riding experience is great

• Packed with useful features

Cons -

• Not enough storage options

• Absence of Hybrid and All-wheel Drive

Verdict

If you're looking for a family car, you can go for it. Despite the fact, it is costlier than other SUVs in this segment. But if you think the additional features are going to benefit you, then you can go for this premium MVP from KIA. A premium segment of car which might rule the roads with a little more time.