Spec Check: 2020 vs 2022 Kia Carnival
We run the numbers (and features) of the 2020 and 2022 Kia Carnival
Kia is set to shake up the minivan segment this month with the launch of the 2022 Carnival. With the first batch already in the country, Kia will officially introduce the fourth-generation minivan on February 17.
With its SUV-like looks, comfier and roomier interior, and a wide variety of amenities and features, Kia’s new-generation minivan could sway some buyers from getting a 7-seater SUV or similarly-sized minivans.
But how does the next-generation Carnival compare to the outgoing model? Will it be bigger than the one it’s going to replace? And just how advanced will the new Carnival be over the third generation version?
Let’s find out with a spec-check between the two minivans.
Going Big
Let’s start with the size. While the 2020 Carnival is already a big vehicle, the 2022 model takes it up a notch. Measuring 5155mm long, 1995mm wide, and 1775mm tall, the new minivan is now 40mm longer, 10mm wider, and 20mm taller. The wheelbase has also been stretched from 3060mm to 3090mm, further improving cabin space.
Thanks to its larger dimensions, the 2022 Carnival will offer a comfier ride, as well as additional cabin space. But before you reserve a unit, make sure to measure your garage to see if it will fit. The last thing you want to happen is to find out your brand new minivan can’t fit inside your garage.
Lounge on Wheels
In true minivan fashion, the all-new Carnival is expected to come in various seating arrangements. In the 2020 Carnival, it’s available with either 11 seats or 7 seats on the range-topping EX variant. On top of that, the minivan is also available with a wide array of cabin amenities such as captain seats on the second row, touchscreen infotainment with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, three-zone automatic climate control, full-leather interior, push-button start, and even sunshade blinds for the rear passengers.
On the 2022 Carnival, there are even more tech upgrades paired with a redesigned dashboard. If it's the same as the international version, the PH-spec 2022 Carnival will have dual 12.3-inch displays. The first one serves as a digital instrument panel, while the other is a touchscreen media display.
In addition, Kia has already confirmed that the 2022 Carnival will come with power-sliding rear doors, ottomans for the second-row seats, a power sunroof, and a new touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2020 Kia Carnival
Like the outgoing model, the 2022 Carnival could be available in 7 and 11 seat configurations. However, Kia might also offer an 8 seater version by replacing the second-row captain's seats with a full bench.
2022 Kia Carnival
Let’s hope that Kia offers all three seating arrangements for the Philippine market.
Diesel all the way
In other markets, the Carnival is available with several engine options, including two V6 engines and a turbo-diesel inline-four. But given diesel’s popularity in the country, the PH-spec Carnival will most likely only get a turbo-diesel engine.
2.2-liter R turbo-diesel from 2020 Kia Carnival
This means the people carrier could come with the new 2.2-liter Smartstream turbo-diesel shared with the new Sorento. It makes 202 PS along with 440 Nm of torque and is then paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2.2-liter Smartstream turbo-diesel from 2022 Kia Carnival
But wait a moment, doesn’t the 2020 Carnival also have a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine that makes the same amount of power? According to Kia, while the two engines are similar in size and output figures, Kia says the 2022 model has an all-aluminum construction while the 2020 version still uses an iron block with aluminum heads. As a result, the new Smartstream turbo-diesel weighs 20kg lighter and has better cooling compared to the previous turbo-diesel.
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Comparing the two Carnivals, it’s clear that Kia made several improvements to the next-generation minivan. Not only is it bigger and roomier than before, but Kia also gave it a more SUV-like design to match the popularity of SUVs nowadays. When it comes to features, the all-new Carnival will not disappoint with the level of equipment available.
Pricing for the 2022 Kia Carnival is not yet available. For reference, the price of the 2020 model ranges from PHP 1.995 million to PHP 2.395 million. However, expect the all-new model to be slightly pricier. Let’s hope Kia finds a way to keep the new Carnival’s prices reasonable once they unveil it on February 17.
