When Kia introduced the 2022 Carnival, we were all excited about the unique combination of practicality and style. Created as a multi-purpose vehicle that packs the features of a minivan but wears SUV’s clothing, this model offers more than just functionality.
The 2022 Kia Carnival gives you lots of passenger and cargo space and a kind of adventurous feeling. It is a three-row family vehicle with room for eight travelers, advanced safety systems, tech gadgets, and more. For around $30,000, you also get a 3.5-liter V6 engine, 290 hp, and an estimated MPG between 19 and 22. All in all, very impressive and attractive.
The problem is, quite a few comparable vehicles were louched in the past year. Within a short period, we had Crysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and a couple of more competitors drawing our attention. Even Kia itself has several SUVs and minivans alike. One just has to wonder, is the 2022 Kia Carnival the best option among all these?
In this article, we lay out the facts and figures of the Kia Carnival’s rivals to help you make an informed decision. Learn what sets this model apart from its competition and whether it could be the right choice for you.
2021 Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna minivan packs a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and comes with a fuel economy of 36 mpg. It provides drivers with solid steering and a comfortable ride, allowing for eight passengers to fit inside. Toyota also offers the drivers all-new technology with power-sliding doors, highly adjustable seats, plenty of apps, speakers, USB ports, and more.
Compared to the 2022 Kia Carnival, the Toyota Sienna is a little pricier and has less cargo space. The exterior design is quite similar in both models, except for the shorter front end and a grille, which is characteristic of Toyota. In practice, however, the Sienna offers better fuel economy and an optional all-wheel drive.
2021 Kia Telluride
Considering Kia has a few admirable SUVs and minivans in its collection, we just have to compare the Carnival with the Telluride. These two vehicles fall in different categories but are quite similar. Both provide extra cargo space, outstanding design, and loads of safety and entertainment features.
The 2022 Kia Carnival is technically larger and aimed at family use, featuring sliding doors and other adequate characteristics. However, the Telluride is more luxurious with an elegant design and heated seats. All in all, it comes down to taste and priorities. The Carnival is a better fit for those looking for extra cargo, while the Telluride is a more compact option for heavy-duty rides.
2021 Chrysler Pacifica
The Carnival and the Pacific are maybe the biggest competitors on our list. The latter offers ICE and hybrid powertrains, a 3.6-liter V6 engine, 287 hp, and 17-25 mpg. Considering the Carnival doesn’t offer an all-wheel-drive nor hybrid option, the Pacific may have an advantage here. However, Kia compensates for these shortcomings with extra cargo space, high-end technology, and lower starting price.
Overall, the differences between these two highly functional and well-designed vehicles may come down to personal taste and preferences. We ran a thorough comparison in the article below, so make sure to check it out for more info.
2022 Kia Sorento
Here we have to confront two vehicles from the same family again. Generally speaking, the 2022 Kia Sorento is a powerful and attractive model with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and 227 hp or 290 hp. It gives drivers not only an option between the turbo and hybrid powertrain but many fancy features we love in the Carnival.
We shouldn’t forget, though, that the Sorento is a mid-size SUV. It looks smooth on the road but offers less space. The Carnival outperforms its sibling in terms of cargo capacity, interior arrangement, and fuel consumption. Surprisingly, it also proves to be more luxurious, although both models come with improved technology. In the end, those who have some extra cash to spend on the new multi-purpose vehicle will most likely choose the 2022 Kia Carnival.
2022 Honda Odyssey
Last but definitely not least, we have the 2022 Honda Odyssey on our list. This vehicle proves to be super useful, featuring a 3.4-liter V6 engine, 280 hp, and 19-28 mpg. It’s also similarly priced as the Carnival, yet we are bound to think the drive is more comfortable in the long run.
However, we have to take into account the modern looks and features of the Carnival. Without a doubt, Kia made its vehicle hard to beat with this unconventional minivan slash SUV. Thanks to the design, power, and space it offers, the 2022 Kia Carnival overthrows most of its current competitors.
.jpg?q=50&fit=crop&w=160&h=120&dpr=1.5)
Read Next
About The Author
