The Kia Carnival has carved a niche for itself in Australia. It’s the people mover that doesn’t scream “minivan,” offering families a blend of practicality and modern aesthetics. But with the 2024 refresh on the horizon, is the Carnival still the champion for Aussie families? Let’s buckle up and take a closer look.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Generous Interior Space: The Carnival’s cavernous cabin accommodates up to eight passengers comfortably, making it ideal for large families or group outings.
- Modern Design: With its sleek lines and distinctive grille, the Carnival stands out in a crowd.
- Advanced Safety Features: Kia has equipped the Carnival with an array of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
- Infotainment Galore: The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system keeps everyone entertained, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
- Smooth Ride: The Carnival glides over bumps and potholes, ensuring a serene journey for all occupants.
Cons
- Handling: While the Carnival is nimble for its size, it’s not exactly a sports car. Expect some body roll during spirited cornering.
- Fuel Economy: Given its substantial dimensions, the Carnival’s fuel efficiency isn’t class-leading. However, it’s on par with other large people movers.
How Much Does It Cost?
The 2024 Carnival starts at a competitive price of $47,480 (excluding on-road costs) for the base S variant with the 3.5L petrol engine. The diesel option starts slightly higher at $49,480. Stepping up to the feature-rich SLi trim adds roughly $10,000 to the price tag. The eagerly awaited Hybrid version is expected to come at a premium, likely around the $54,000 mark.
Features and Benefits
- Spacious Seating: The Carnival’s flexible seating arrangement allows you to configure it for passengers or cargo. Fold the third row flat, and you’ve got a massive cargo area.
- Smart Power Sliding Doors: Hands full? No problem! The Carnival’s power sliding doors open with a wave of your foot.
- Stow ‘n Go Seats: The second-row seats fold into the floor, creating a flat load space when needed.
- Clever Storage Solutions: From hidden compartments to cup holders galore, the Carnival keeps clutter at bay.
Safety
- The Carnival boasts a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, thanks to its robust construction and comprehensive safety features.
- Driver Attention Alert: Keeps you focused during long drives.
- Surround-View Monitor: Makes parking a breeze.
Running Costs
- Fuel Economy: Expect around 10-12 liters per 100 kilometers depending on driving conditions.
- Servicing: Kia offers competitive service packages, ensuring peace of mind for Carnival owners.
The Competition
The Carnival squares off against established players like the Toyota Tarago and the Chrysler Pacifica. The Tarago offers a comfortable ride and a hybrid option, but it might feel a tad dated compared to the Carnival’s fresh design. The Pacifica is a strong competitor, boasting a luxurious interior and a plug-in hybrid option, but its starting price is considerably higher.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kia Carnival remains a compelling choice for Australian families. It offers a spacious and comfortable interior, a long list of features, and improved safety tech. The upcoming Hybrid version promises to be a game-changer, addressing fuel efficiency concerns. While the thirsty petrol engine and the potentially tight city maneuverability might hold some back, the overall package makes the Carnival a strong contender.
Rating: 8/10
The Carnival is a well-rounded people mover that excels in comfort, practicality, and features. With the arrival of the Hybrid, it’s poised to become an even more attractive option for families prioritizing both space and fuel efficiency. If you’re looking for a stylish and reliable family hauler, the 2024 Kia Carnival is definitely worth a test drive.