The updated Kia Carnival continues to serve as a versatile choice for active South African families, positioning itself distinctively between traditional SUVs and conventional people-movers. This latest iteration combines contemporary design cues, capable performance and a spacious, well-appointed interior.
Drawing visual inspiration from Kia's successful SUV lineup, including the Sorento, Seltos, and Sonet, the Carnival has key design elements that include sculpted bonnet lines, pronounced wheel arches, a continuous character line and premium touches like two-tone side mirrors and black chrome rocker panels. Standard 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels complete its SUV-inspired presence.
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Inside, the cabin offers a premium feel with high-gloss black finishes, signature chrome accents and slim metal-effect air vents. Available in seven or eight-passenger configurations, the Carnival provides significant versatility. Luggage space measures 1 139 litres with all seats occupied, expanding to 4 110 litres when the second row is removed and the third row is folded flat. The seven-seat variant features adaptable second-row chairs.
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The top-tier SXL seven-seat model introduces Kia's 'Slide-Flex' seating system. This allows the second-row centre seat to slide forward for easier access to children or transform into a table. Practical features include standard hands-free electric sliding side doors and, on the SXL, a Smart Power Liftgate with auto-close.
Power comes from a single powertrain option: Kia's 'Smartstream' 2,2-litre CRDi turbodiesel engine. It delivers 148 kW at 3 800 r/min and 440 Nm of torque between 1 759 r/min and 2 750 r/min, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This setup enables the Carnival to confidently tow loads up to 1,5 tons.
Safety is a significant focus, with the Carnival offering a comprehensive suite of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), particularly well-equipped on the SXL model. These systems include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with braking, Lane Keeping Assist with Lane Following Assist, a segment-exclusive Blind-spot View Monitor, Smart Cruise Control, and an Around View Monitor.
Two distinct trim levels are available:
- The EX model serves as the well-equipped entry point, featuring a 12,3-inch audio display, front and rear air-conditioning, LED headlamps, leather trim, 18-inch alloys, front and rear parking sensors, and 7 airbags.
- The flagship SXL adds significant luxury and technology, including a 12,3-inch supervision cluster, BOSE 12-speaker sound, 19-inch alloys, dual sunroofs, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a Head-Up Display, a wireless charger, and the full complement of ADAS features.
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Manufactured in South Korea, the new Kia Carnival line-up is priced from R1 049 995 for the 2,2 CRDi EX 7-Seater, rising to R1 299 995 for the 2,2 CRDi SXL 7-Seater. Both variants come standard with Kia’s Unlimited Kilometre, 5-year warranty (including roadside assistance) and a 6-year / 90 000 km comprehensive maintenance plan covering numerous consumable items beyond standard servicing.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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