All-new Kia Carnival looks more like an SUV than a minivan

Last week, Kia announced that they will be launching the next-generation Carnival. At the time, we were only shown one teaser image of the MPV’s front end. But from the looks of it, the changes are very significant. Now, the (short) wait is over. The Korean automaker has finally pulled the covers off the fourth-generation Carnival.

The most significant change sees on the all-new Carnival is the design. Unlike the out-going model which is shaped very much like a traditional minivan/MPV, the fourth-generation Carnival has SUV-inspired elements. In fact, the automaker even dubbed it as a “Grand Utility Vehicle” to give the large people mover a more dynamic DNA.

Aside from the Carnival’s shape, the MPV features bolder styling all around. Upfront, gone are the large headlights, and in its place are slim LED units that blend with the larger and more prominent tiger-nose grill. A sculpted hood, paired with a new front bumper, further enhances the more stylish front end. Interestingly, a skid plate has been fitted to the front bumper. Kia also notes that the new Carnival has a shorter overhang by shifting the A-pillar backward.

From the side, the Carnival features a “floating roof design with blackened A- and B-Pillars. But the most prominent design feature is the new C-pillar chrome trim piece inspired by that of the new Sorento. Noticeably, the rear quarter windows are a lot smaller than the rear passenger windows, lending to its SUV-like design. The subtly flared wheel arches further enhance the SUV-inspired styling cues.

At the rear, the most striking new design is the new full-width taillights with a unique LED design element. The rear bumper also features a skid plate to match the front end.

For now, Kia has only released exterior photos of the Carnival. But, do expect the cabin to take a big step forward in terms of materials and technology available. Furthermore, there are no powertrain or technical details yet.

Kia says more details will be made available soon. The all-new Carnival is set to go on sale in South Korea during the third quarter of 2020. Other markets will follow soon after.