In America, there aren’t many minivan options, but Kia just made the brave decision to introduce its own minivan model. Kia has discontinued the Sedona and replaced it with the Kia Carnival for the 2022 model year. There are further differences other only the model names, though. Here is a comparison between the new 2022 Kia Carnival and the previous 2021 Kia Sedona.
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Is the Kia Carnival in Sedona?
Since 1998, Kia has been producing a minivan called the Carnival (Korean). It is heavily promoted throughout the world as the Kia Sedona, a moniker that is no longer in use in favor of the Carnival.
A single, short wheelbase version of the first-generation Carnival was marketed when it was unveiled in September 1998[1]. Models of the second generation were sold in short and long wheelbase versions (20062014). In North America, a rebadged version of the second generation was sold under the name Hyundai Entourage (20072009). [2] Peter Schreyer, Kia’s then-new design leader, debuted the company’s Tiger Nose grille in 2010 as part of the second generation model’s improved equipment. In 2014, Kia debuted their third-generation minivan in only a long wheelbase configuration. In 2020, the fourth generation was released, and Kia also started utilizing the Carnival brand internationally.
What was the Kia Sedona’s successor?
In February, Kia unveiled the 2022 Carnival, claiming that it will be more rigid and durable than the outgoing Sedona it will replace.
The three-row Carnival “Multi-Purpose Vehicle” is designed to fill what Kia refers to as “the vacant gap between SUV and family hauler.” The Sorento and K5 both use the third-generation “N3 platform, which is a unibody SUV.
According to a news release from Kia on February 23, “Kia’s engineers made sure it was lighter, stronger, and quieter than the departing architecture.
According to the OEM, it used more “hot-stamped components and ultra-high-strength steel for enhanced average tensile strength and torsional stiffness that lead to superior driving dynamics.
James Hope, national manager of Kia Product Communications, claimed on Friday that the Carnival employed hot-stamped steel in 14 locations, two more than the Sedona.
He listed the following hot-stamped steel locations:
- all the way around the driver’s and passenger’s front doors
- Along the header of the windshield
- Crash channels in the firewall’s lowest section
- channels in the rear chassis that extend longitudinally from the back of the vehicle toward the second row of seats. (Slight formatting changes.)
Hope claimed that he was not given any information regarding the use of aluminum in the massive truck.
When the Carnival reaches dealers this quarter, in addition to all of the higher-strength steels, repairers will run into extra “sound absorbent and insulating elements to minimize road, wind, and engine noise,” according to Kia.
Other bodily and technical information that may be of interest is:
- For better gas mileage, Kia claimed to have made aerodynamic adjustments to the wheels, mirrors, and front bumper.
- According to the OEM, the wheel arches are “(b)rawny,” the headlights and taillights are united by “(a) bold cutline,” and the hood has “(d)ramatic body lines.”
- There is a two-tone color scheme on the mirrors. Wheels in gloss black are an option.
- Skid plate garnish and “black/chrome rocker panel moldings” are examples of trim. The Carnival is additionally the first automobile to sport Kia’s new emblem.
- Although it’s not clear if the taillights are LEDs, the headlights are.
- Nearly all trims come included with an intercom and a camera that can see in the dark to see what’s in the backseat.
- There is UVO telematics available, which enables the Carnival to dial 911 in the event of an airbag activation.
- The SUV was equipped with “12 standard Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features, the most complete standard ADAS suite in the sector, and available segment-exclusive Blind-Spot View Monitor,” according to a claim made by Kia. Although Kia did not list all 12, the highlights included autobraking, blind-spot monitoring and autobraking, rear cross-traffic autobraking, parking distance alerts, lane centering, automatic high beams, and alerts to drivers who the vehicle’s movement may cause them to perceive as being potentially inattentive.
What is comparable to the Kia Carnival?
The 2022 Kia Carnival provides plenty of passenger and cargo space in addition to a feeling of adventure.
We were all thrilled when Kia unveiled the 2022 Carnival because of its distinctive blend of functionality and style. This model delivers more than just functionality because it was designed as a multi-purpose vehicle that has all the amenities of a minivan but looks like an SUV.
The 2022 Kia Carnival provides plenty of passenger and cargo space in addition to a feeling of adventure. It is a three-row family car with space for eight passengers, cutting-edge security features, cutting-edge technology, and more. You can obtain a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horses and an expected MPG of 19 to 22 for roughly $30,000. Overall, really striking and appealing.
The issue is that a lot of similar automobiles were stolen last year. We were quickly drawn to the Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and a few other rival vehicles. Even Kia itself offers a number of minivans and SUVs. Is the 2022 Kia Carnival the finest choice out of all of these, one needs to wonder?
What is thought of the Kia Carnival?
In actuality, Kia’s 2022 Kia Carnival is a cutting-edge minivan dressed as an SUV, despite the company’s claims that it is a multipurpose vehicle. The spacious third-row seating, which so many SUVs lack, and the traditional sliding side door are what identify it as a minivan. Additionally, the Carnival only has front-wheel drive while the majority of SUVs have all-wheel drive.
Nevertheless, the Kia Carnival is a fantastic people mover that can accommodate up to eight passengers comfortably. Additionally, each model is loaded with cutting-edge driver aid safety features and technology. When parents pull up to drop off a group of kids and their equipment at the sports field, its sleeker-than-most-minivan design might even help them avoid the outdated soccer mom and dad reputation.
The second row of the top-of-the-line Kia Carnival Prestige SX boasts seats that resemble those in business class; they are the most comfortable way to travel in any car under $50,000. The fit and finish of the cockpit is also on par with the level of luxury found inside high-end automobiles from manufacturers like Audi, BMW, and Lexus. More importantly, even the cheapest Carnival has a comprehensive selection of safety technology. It satisfies every requirement that the recently retired Kia Sedona minivan could not quite meet.
The Chrysler Pacifica, the minivan segment’s current best-selling vehicle with sales accounting for 40% of the segment through April 2021, will be closely followed by the 2022 Kia Carnival. The Toyota Sienna (32%) and Honda Odyssey follow in its wake (24 percent ). Since buyers abandoned the market in favor of SUVs five years ago, every top-selling minivan has undergone a redesign to stay competitive. But together, their sales have decreased from 1.1 million in 2005 to slightly over 270,000 in 2020.
Who constructs Sedona vans?
model Kia Sedonas. The LX, EX, and SX trim levels of the 2021 Kia Sedona minivan all include eight-passenger seating as standard. A 3.3-liter V6 engine (276 horsepower, 248 pound-feet of torque) is housed under the hood, and an eight-speed automatic transmission powers the front wheels.
Is the Honda Odyssey superior to the Kia Carnival?
We appreciate you taking the time to read our comparison of the 2022 Kia Carnival and 2022 Honda Odyssey. We’re aware that you’re almost ready to buy a new family-mover for, well, your family!
This helpful page compares the primary advantages of a 2022 Honda Odyssey versus a 2022 Kia Carnival. We’ll go over important information regarding the powertrain, adaptability, features, and more. After reading this page, you need to have a good understanding of each minivan and which one might be the best for you and your priceless cargo.
However, if you already know, choose your new Honda Odyssey before someone else does!
KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: Powertrains
The powertrain and performance comparison between the 2022 Kia Carnival and 2022 Honda Odyssey is rather even. Both minivans include V6 engines with naturally aspirated displacement, drive modes, traction controls, and a wealth of automated driver aid technologies. When properly equipped, both cars are capable of towing up to 3500-lbs, although the Honda Odyssey has 280 horsepower compared to 290 for the Carnival.
In spite of this, the Odyssey is the only vehicle in this comparison between Carnival and Odyssey that has all-wheel drive (AWD), making it the most secure ride. The Carnival only has an 8-speed transmission, however the Honda Odyssey provides a 10-speed transmission.
Power looks nice in writing. But if it’s not used appropriately, nothing of it matters. The Carnival has 8-speeds, FWD only, and 290 horsepower. In order to maintain forward motion, the engine must work harder (compare this to a 3-speed mountain bike vs. a 21-speed mountain bike), and all of that energy is directed to the front wheels alone.
This might cause traction loss because the front wheels are overpowered in bad weather or on slick surfaces. In our opinion, the Odyssey wins this particular comparison between the 2022 Kia Carnival and 2022 Honda Odyssey.
KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: Amenities
As of right now, both models gain from a design upgrade. In actuality, the Carnival represents a complete redesign of the departing Kia Sedona minivan. The Carnival has angles that resemble those of an SUV, giving it a commanding presence. The Honda Odyssey stays loyal to its intended aerodynamics and style. This part of the 2022 Kia Carnival comparison must be taken with a grain of salt because taste and fashion are purely individualized. Either you fall in love right away or you don’t.
The inside of the Odyssey is airy and roomy. Take note of the controls in the center stack. Both cars have adjustable seats with different surface options. Therefore, if luxury is your thing, you can choose between durable wipe-and-go economy materials or leather chairs. There are also numerous USB outlets, power door options, Wi-Fi, and entertainment facilities spread across both trucks to keep the troops occupied on any travel.
The dimensions, configurability, amenities, and luxury of both vehicles are almost on par, so we’d call the 2022 Kia Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey showdown a tie. The Odyssey transports all of this with more skill than the Carnival, giving you an advantage with fuel economy on the highway, if you’re seeking for something to set it apart from the latter.
On the motorway, the Odyssey is expected to achieve 28 MPG1, whilst the Carnival will only achieve up to 26 MPG1. As a last point, the Odyssey will also be equipped with adaptive cruise control as standard, unlike the Carnival. On second consideration, the Honda Odyssey appears to be superior to the Kia Carnival in the 2022 comparison. It does give you more, after all. Ready? Go straight to our Honda Odyssey lease specials!
KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: FAQs
What will it be then? For you, The Odyssey vs. Carnival in 2022? Although we believe we understand your allegiances, let’s offer some additional information in response to some questions that might push you over the line.
Is the KIA Carnival AWD?
Not at all. All parents should have serious safety and security concerns about this. The Carnival is constrained by an 8-speed transmission connected to permanent FWD even if you live in an area without snow.
Is Honda discontinuing the Odyssey?
Everything great has to come to an end. We’re interested to see how this epic 10-year voyage ends, much as how the Kia Sedona was cancelled and then reincarnated as the Carnival.
Is the 2022 KIA Carnival a van or SUV?
Both are true! While many would naturally refer to the Carnival as a minivan with SUV-like styling, KIA maintains that the Carnival is actually an MPV, or rather a multi-purpose utility vehicle.
KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: Conclusions
Which one would you pick if you had to choose one right now? In our opinion, a Honda automobile will always be more valuable. Both of these competitors provide many of the same comfort and convenience options when placed side by side. However, the Odyssey offers more standard equipment, an improved powertrain and traction system, and a lead in total fuel efficiency when it comes to your safety.
Browse our selection, choose your favorite, and let one of our sales professionals handle the rest. Visit our page on the Honda tire pressure monitoring system if you want to learn more about the Honda company. You’ll discover how Honda develops user-friendly, cutting-edge innovations. Everything is planned to keep you and your family secure.
Are Stow N Go seats available for the Kia Carnival?
I was very delighted by the Carnival’s promptness.
Not just for a minivan, it is swift. A 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 290 horsepower is the only power source, and it is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission for quick, straightforward changes and smooth power delivery. Even when it was completely loaded with my family of five, the drivetrain never seemed insufficient.
Sadly, fluidity is not a prominent focus. The Carnival’s soft suspension setup results in handling that is less than graceful. It leans heavily in corners and careens over bumps and through turns with dips and floatiness akin to those on a roller coaster. The steering tuning of the Carnival doesn’t help; a light, ineffective steering wheel results in a sterile, disjointed driving experience.
The Carnival maintains its composure over tiny bumps, but larger ones cause it to become uneasy because of the sharp impact, which causes the cabin to vibrate and shimmy. In terms of providing a more pleasant ride, a better handling balance, and better maneuverability, the Pacifica performs better.
Although the Carnival’s estimated fuel efficiency is comparable to that of its main competitors, there is still potential for improvement. Its city/highway/combined EPA ratings of 19/26/22 mpg are comparable to the 2021 Pacifica and Odyssey’s scores of 19/28/22 mpg. The lack of options is my main concern here; both the 2021 Toyota Sienna hybrid and the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid offer far higher fuel economy. There is also an all-wheel drive version of the Pacifica and Sienna available (the Carnival is front-wheel drive only).
Clown Car Vibes
The Carnival has two alternative second-row seating arrangements, one that is roomy and adaptable and one that families should avoid. It is available in LX, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige trims.
The Slide-Flex feature, which increases the flexibility of the second row, was included with my SX test unit. Three seats may move in all directions as well as from side to side. Additionally, they may recline independently of one another. For example, you can move the middle seat forward to make it simpler for a front-seat passenger to reach a child in a safety belt. It sounds like the Magic Slide technology from the 2021 Honda Odyssey, but with a twist: The center seat in the Carnival can be folded down to become a table with cupholders. Cool and practical!
Family-friendly kid safety seat options are available for the SX model. I was able to rapidly install three car seats thanks to the second row’s roomy second row and the vehicle’s three easily accessible lower Latch anchors. Two sets of lower anchors are also present in the third row. Learn more about the Car Seat Check.
The VIP Lounge can be found in the less desirable and uncool area. I also evaluated the seating on the top-of-the-line SX-Prestige model. The seats offer power controls, heating, ventilation, wraparound head restraints, and pop-out leg extensions. They are also substantially wider than standard second-row captain’s chairs. This sounds wonderful for getting a pedicure instead of schlepping my kids around. The third row cannot be used while the seats are fully reclined because they infringe on the space reserved for passengers in the back. Second, it’s challenging to reach the third row because, despite the seats sliding all the way to the side doors, the space between them is fairly little due to the extra width of the seats.
The Carnival’s small item storage areas, which are a must for my family’s snack-obsessed, gadget-obsessed household, are also not that amazing. There aren’t many nooks in the doors for storing little items, and the center console storage box is pretty humdrum in terms of size and functionality (the Pacifica and Odyssey accomplish this much better). The third row has cupholders but none of the other rows’ device storage bins, so my 10-year-belongings old’s end up all over the place. In addition, it lacks the Pacifica’s underfloor storage containers.
Thanks to its Stow ‘n Go seating system, which enables you to quickly and effortlessly tumble the second-row seats into the floor, the Pacifica is unsurpassed in freight once more. The conventional second-row seats on the Carnival can be folded down or removed, while the lounge seats cannot be folded down or removed. All Carnival models, however, feature a third row that conveniently collapses into the floor.
According to Kia’s calculations, the Carnival has somewhat more cargo space than its rivals, 40.2 cubic feet, behind the third row.
A Funhouse of Features
The Carnival boasts many more family-friendly features than the previous Sedona, which may make or break a minivan. Everyone is welcome with the exception of one.
The hits are first: First-row passengers in the back seat can keep an eye on the children in the back thanks to an optional in-cabin camera system with a zoom feature and night vision. Similar to the in-cabin cameras on the Pacifica and Odyssey, but better accomplished; the Carnival’s photos are clearer and the camera’s placement provides a superb view of both rows. The system is available in EX, SX, and SX-Prestige trims and comes with a voice amplification option that I thought was gimmicky.
The audiovisual system at the Carnival is also well-liked. It has an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. A 12.3-inch touchscreen is standard on EX and above trims, while the SX-Prestige adds a digital instrument cluster that is connected to the touchscreen by a single piece of glass. It boasts a sleek appearance, simple menus, and a very snappy touchscreen. Additionally, the system features many profiles that are useful for adjusting other settings and music preferences to particular drivers.
The proximity-activated hands-free sliding doors were also very helpful in my opinion. The doors will automatically open after three seconds when you approach them with the key in your pocket or purseperfect for when your hands are full of groceries (or kids). A hands-free power liftgate is a standard feature on every model in the lineup, with the exception of the base model. On the Pacifica, Chrysler offers a kick-activated sliding door and cargo door mechanism, but it’s not a must. A hands-free liftgate is an option for the Odyssey.
The SX and SX-Prestige grades’ rear entertainment system is a mixed bag. The two sizable second-row touchscreens are really functional. You can connect to a Wi-Fi hotspot to stream Netflix, YouTube, or the news, or you can connect to a device using an HDMI connection or wireless screen mirroring if you have an Apple or Android device. All three of my kids played the many games in the kids mode, which is also available. My 10-year-old claimed it was cringe-worthy and marketed with the Baby Shark, but she liked the activities and YouTube Kids option.
A couple things require improvement. First off, unlike some other vans, the Carnival lacks hot spot functionality, therefore in order to connect to YouTube or Netflix, you must use an external hot spot or the hot spot functionality of a smartphone. Even if you don’t want to use your phone to control it, you must download a remote control app to enable the back entertainment system. Since allowing my children to use my phone to operate the system is already firmly in the “I suppose not, column. (This layout may change; I was operating a preproduction Carnival.) Last but not least, the screens remind me of something out of a New York taxi; unlike the Pacifica’s Uconnect Theater dual-screen system, which is flush with the seatback, they spring out and out like an aftermarket addition. I could envision someone snatching a backpack off one of the kids as they hustled in and out of the van or a child kicking the screen while in a car seat. When a rear-facing car seat is installed, they also restrict the amount of usable space.
The speech recognition system, which is standard on EX, SX, and SX-Prestige trims, is shown under the miss column. By pressing a button on the ceiling, it enables those in the second row to manage a number of operations with voice commands. The radio can be changed, and the heated steering wheel can be activated, but why? Giving my little, trick-prone passengers control in this situation, which is not a cab, is another mark against me “not at all column.