THE Kia Carnival has been rolled out by the Korean automaker to replace the Grand Sedona. Called the mini-van in the US and other markets, in SA we are happy to call this people mover the MPV – multi- purpose vehicle. It is essentially a luxury type vehicle for ferrying small groups around but also preferred mode of transport for large families, more so on special trips.
So, if the Carnival comes on to the market as a replacement for the Sedona, which was first introduced in 1998, why the need for the revolutionary change spearheaded by the new name, the Carnival? Well, without any attempt to besmirch the good name of Kia, the Grand Sedona was the poor cousin of the MPVs despite all the facelift attempts until the last generation in 2021. Bacause many complained about the unsexy design and other mechanical glitches including engine noise, power software and premature alternator failure for a few example, it was not going to be easy for Kia to extend the Grand Sedona’s life. A whole lot of new technology and wow modern design went into the making of the new model, and therefore a new name was imperative to make it all believable that it is completely different vehicle.
So, the Kia Carnival enters as an upmarket people-mover targeting a set of motorists inclined to class and style. It is for well-to-do families seeking to get away in bigger numbers in style and comfort, just as it would be something corporates and other businesses would want to transport its executives and other important people.
Engine and performance
The SA Carnival range has only one engine and transmission combination, which is a 2.2-letter four-cylinder turbodiesel motor in all the four derivatives available in South Africa. The engine is mated to a transmission with eight forward gears driving the front wheels, giving out power and torgue figures of 148kW and 440Nm.
The Carnival boasts further improvements including better driving dynamics and quietness in the running engine. Moreover, the new Carnival is bigger in every aspect and offers more refined touches compared to its predecessor.
The Carnival is mostly a large 7-seater, but the second most affordable derivative, the EX+, has an 8-seater configuration.
Cabin comfort, the quietness of the egine and refined interior make road trips in the Kia Carnival desirable ventures.
Interior
The entry-level Kia Carnival EX and subsequent derivatives have an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment as the vanguard of the dashboard. The facility is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ready. The EX further boasts front and rear adjustable air-conditioning, overhead console lamps, four USB ports, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and leather trim. The rear seats are foldable to expand carrying capacity.
Exterior
LED headlamps are increasingly becoming standard in modern motoring and they sure show the way better for the Carnival at night. The PDC parking assistant is available both in front and rear, while the vehicle drives on 18” aluminium alloys. Kia refers to the massive but impressive chrome grille as “tiger nose”. It really looks aggressive, but only for assurance that you are riding in a stunner that takes no nonsense from anyone – just like the tiger in the wild with all its fine looks!
Smart Specs
The Kia Carnival EX+, apart from eight seats, adds smart entry with push-button start, powered sliding side doors, electric tailgate, adjustable automatic climate control and 7 USB ports just to name a few.
The higher end derivaties step out on 19” aluminium alloy wheels, heated and ventilated front, Smart Cruise Control, dual tilt and slide sunroofs, wireless smartphone charging and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment, but there are more special specs.
Prices
2.2 CRDi EX 8AT 7-Seater R799 995
2.2 CRDi EX+ 8AT 8-Seater R879 995
2.2 CRDi SX Limited 8AT 7-Seater R999 995
2.2 CRDi SXL 8AT 7-Seater R1 024 995
With a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, including roadside assistance, as well as a 6-year/90 000 km
