The Kia Carnival is a full-size minivan produced by South Korean manufacturer Kia Motors. It was first introduced in 1998 and has since undergone several generations of updates.
First Generation (1998-2002): The first-generation Carnival was based on the Kia Joice minivan, with a lengthened body to accommodate an additional row of seats. It featured a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 120 horsepower and a 3-speed automatic transmission. Capacity was for up to eight passengers.
Second Generation (2002-2006): The second-generation Carnival saw improvements in power output, with the 2.0-liter engine now producing 140 horsepower. It also gained an optional V6 engine in some markets. A new 4-speed automatic transmission replaced the old 3-speed unit, while interior space and comfort were enhanced.
Third Generation (2006-2014): This generation marked significant improvements over its predecessors. The Carnival's length increased to 4,900 mm, and its width expanded to 1,815 mm. Engine options included a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 140 horsepower and a 2.9-liter V6 engine that made 165 horsepower. Transmission choices comprised of a 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed automatic.
Fourth Generation (2014-2019): The fourth-generation Carnival was longer and wider, measuring 5,070 mm in length and 1,860 mm in width. It was powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 162 horsepower or a 3.3-liter V6 engine that made 260 horsepower. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual or an optional 6-speed automatic.
Fifth Generation (2019-Present): The current Carnival is based on the Kia Telluride and features a more luxurious design, with LED headlights and taillights. It measures 5,095 mm in length and 1,970 mm in width. Engine options include a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 245 horsepower or an optional V6 variant that generates 294 horsepower. Transmission choices consist of a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic.
Trim Levels and Features: The Kia Carnival is offered in various trim levels across markets, such as the LX, SXL, and EX. These trims often come equipped with standard features like LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, power windows, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Dimensions: The Kia Carnival's overall length ranges from 4,900 mm to 5,095 mm across generations. Its width varies between 1,815 mm and 1,970 mm, while its height spans from 1,770 mm to 1,830 mm. It has a wheelbase of up to 3,060 mm.
Safety Features: As safety is paramount in modern vehicles, the Kia Carnival often comes equipped with advanced features like forward collision-avoidance assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additionally, it may be available with optional features such as a panoramic sunroof, navigation, and an Infinity sound system.
Colors: The Carnival has been offered in various colors across its generations, including metallic shades like silver, black, gray, and white, alongside brighter options like red, blue, and orange.
Capacity: Capacity varies by generation but generally ranges from 7 to 9 passengers.