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The most noticeable change in the exterior design is the departure from the traditional MPV lines, opting instead for a sleek SUV-like stance, which has become quite popular in recent years. A prominent chrome-heavy tiger-nose grille dominates the front, giving it a bold presence. From the side, the Carnival’s massive 5.0-meter length is evident, contributing to its impressive road presence. The 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, though premium in appearance, feel somewhat modest compared to what’s offered by other vehicles in this price range. At the rear, Kia has equipped the Carnival with the largest version of its signature connected tail lamps, giving the vehicle a striking look. For now, the Carnival is available in just two colors—black and white—though it’s expected that Kia will introduce additional shades in the coming months.
What’s the cabin of the new Kia Carnival like?
If you’re considering the Kia Carnival, chances are you plan to spend more time in the back seat than behind the wheel, and for that, the rear seating experience must be top-notch. Thankfully, space is not an issue. At 5.1 meters long with a 3.0-meter wheelbase, the Carnival offers ample room not only in the second row but also in the third and front row.
The automatic sliding doors make getting in and out a breeze, and there’s even a step to help with ingress and egress. Once inside, the bucket seats are plush and offer great comfort, complete with dual armrests. The powered seatbacks can be adjusted, and the seats can move not just forward and backward but also side to side, making it easier to exit gracefully.
The cabin feels premium thanks to high-quality materials, a well-thought-out color scheme, and a sense of spaciousness enhanced by the dual sunroof. Strong noise insulation further adds to the overall comfort. The left rear seat can recline fully, and there’s a “boss mode” for the front passenger seat, allowing it to be adjusted from the rear seat controls.
However, there are a few shortcomings in the rear-seat package. Most notably, there are no tray tables or rear entertainment screens—features that would be expected in a vehicle of this caliber. While Kia has yet to release an official accessories pack for the Carnival, it remains unclear whether these features can be added later. The absence of tray tables is particularly surprising, considering that even the top-spec Carens offers them.
Should you consider buying the new Kia Carnival?
Let’s break it down. The new Kia Carnival has a lot going for it, particularly for those who want a spacious and comfortable ride. It offers ample space, a well-finished interior, and a diesel engine that provides plenty of power for long journeys without skipping a beat. The overall fit and finish are reflective of the high standards Kia has become known for.
On the downside, the rear-seat configuration leaves something to be desired in terms of user-friendliness, and it lacks some luxury features that would elevate the rear passenger experience. Additionally, it’s only available with a diesel engine, which may not be an issue for some, but it’s worth noting for potential buyers who may prefer petrol or hybrid options.
At the time of this review, the new Kia Carnival is priced at Rs. 63.90 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a premium offering in the MPV market. If you’re in the market for a comfortable, spacious, and well-appointed MPV with a commanding road presence, the Carnival is definitely worth considering, but be aware of its limitations before making a decision.
