This time of year here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis, we know that as you take your lunch break and scroll through your newsfeed, the three-row crossover segment is dominating the news! The few minivans that are left in the game are offering features that are completely at the TOP of their game, with handling as good as the SUV class and luxury rich features. The new 2022 Kia Carnival marks the very notable junction in time when Kia stakes their claim in the very competitive Minivan arena.
With a fresh and modern new design, people are in love with the characteristically boxy shape, and the luxurious interior makes it the perfect vehicle for a relaxing ride around town. The Car and Driver testing crew's model came in the SX trim, sporting the visually appealing Tuscan Umber brown leather upholstery. The SX trim level also offers up the recliner-style VIP Lounge second-row captain's chairs, that provide heating and cooling and an ottoman that is extra comfy on the feet during long journeys.
For third-row space and comfort, you won't find a 3-row crossover anywhere that accommodates adults in the back. The steering is perfectly weighted, and the suspension tuning strikes just the right ride balance without feeling too firm. The brake pedal's response ranks as better than what is found in the form of the Sienna for competition, and under the hood is a 3.5-liter V6 good for 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
The Carnival gets to 60 mph in just 7.0 seconds, quicker than all-wheel-drive versions of both the Pacifica and Sienna. The 8-speed transmission is ready and on point with prompt downshifts, making the Carnival feel over-the-top responsive when passing or merging on the highway. As the minivan wars continue to rage valiantly on throughout the entire auto market, the Carnival is the most worthy competitor to consider, allowing for a worry-free haul that the entire family feels comfortable in.
The SX trim is where the surround-view camera system and Bose audio options are available, with all 8 potential passengers feeling safe and amply rockin' out to music or podcasts. Featuring an interior that is handsomely laid out and organized much like the Telluride's, all Carnivals come equipped with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and active lane control. Moving up the trim level offerings provide safety features in the form of adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera.
