Kia launched the fourth generation Carnival in January this year some 23 years after the first model came to Australia. The latest model showing sleek design and is packed with all the goodies to face the SUV challenge head on.
There are four models, the S, Si, SLI and Platinum, two engine options a 3.5LV6 Petrol and a 2.2L diesel and one silky smooth 8 speed automatic transmission.
Pricing is from $46,880 for the entry level S petrol through to and rise to $66,680 for the Platinum diesel version. Plus the usual costs
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My pick is the Platinum 2.2L diesel model, it has enough power and torque for most drivers and with the new architecture the Carnival is more SUV like than many actual SUVs.
It is far removed from the van with eight seats and the people movers of our youth.
With more practical space than almost any SUV and a genuine eight seat capacity, If KIA ever decides to put their AWD system in the Carnival the SUV segment would be in trouble.
Kia Carnival is an excellent vehicle, it is easy to drive in a way that belies its size and just so comfortable and easy to live with.
This is a motoring Minute
Im Rob Fraser
What is good?
- Value for money
- Space and practicality
- Surprisingly good dynamics
What is not so good?
- Space saver spare
- No wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto on most models.
- No Head up Display
Also Look At
Model | KIA Carnival Platinum 2.2l CDI |
| Model Price | $66,680 MLP* |
| Engine | 2.2L 4 Cyl Diesel |
| Drivetrain | 8 Speed AT, FWD |
| Power | 148kW @ 3,800rpm |
| Torque | 440Nm @ 1,750-2,750rpm |
| Safety | TBA ANCAP |
| CO2 Emissions | 170 g/km |
| Economy ADR | 6.5 L/100km |
| Servicing | 12 Months / 15,000 km Service Plan |
| Warranty | 7yr/ Unlimited km with 7 Yr. conditional roadside assist |
*MLP – Manufacturers List Price includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of any options.
Overall Rating | 89/100 | |
| Behind the Wheel | 9 | |
| Comfort | 9 | |
| Equipment | 9 | |
| Performance | 9 | |
| Ride and Handling | 9 | |
| Practicality | 9 | |
| Fit for Purpose | 9 | |
| Technology/Connectivity | 9 | |
| Styling/ Appeal | 8 | |
| Value for Money | 9 |
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2021 KIA Carnival 2.2L Platinum
- Behind the Wheel - 9/109/10
- Comfort - 9/109/10
- Equipment - 9/109/10
- Performance - 9/109/10
- Ride and Handling - 9/109/10
- Practicality - 9/109/10
- Fit for Purpose - 9/109/10
- Technology/Connectivity - 9/109/10
- Styling/Appeal - 8/108/10
- Value for Money - 9/109/10
Summary
With more practical space than almost any SUV and a genuine eight seat capacity, If KIA ever decides to put their AWD system in the Carnival the SUV segment would be in trouble.
Kia Carnival is an excellent vehicle, it is easy to drive in a way that belies its size and just so comfortable and easy to live with.
