‘Kia Carnival’ Review: An Incredibly Luxurious Family Vehicle

Different families require different vehicles. While a hatchback may work well for two parents and a child, larger households will need a few more seats. Even if a family is small, a bigger vehicle makes sense if you want to make space for friends or need a larger luggage area for holidays. Entering the market at a premium price, the Kia Carnival is a magnificent 7-seater that has a lot going for it. As a luxurious family vehicle, it doesn’t get much better than this.

We were fortunate enough to spend a week with the Carnival 2.2 CRDI SX (LTD) AT model and found its drive to be incredibly smooth. As it is quite large in size, tight parking spots should be avoided at all costs but it still manages to be surprisingly manoeuvrable when out on the road. The Kia Carnival may be heavy but this doesn’t stop the 2.2-litre engine from taking your breath away when you get a chance to break loose on the freeway. In this situation, sport mode provides a welcome boost although eco mode still comes with an impressive amount of power.

The comfort that is present within the Kia Carnival is simply unparalleled. The adjustable leather seats ensure that every journey is as enjoyable as can be. Furthermore, the amount of space that this vehicle has will surely make every family member happy. 7 individuals can fit inside adequately as the spacious Carnival has been specifically designed to move people with ease.

When it comes to technology, there are many positives here too. Blindspot warnings, collision warnings and a birds-eye view for reversing allow this vehicle to feel exceptionally safe. It is slightly disappointing that there is no option for GPS without app integration but this is a small nitpick in the grand scheme of things.

On the outside, the Kia Carnival has a charismatic presence indeed. Its large size makes it stand out but its high-end design allows it to be a vehicle that you can’t help but be amazed by as it passes you on the street.

The Kia Carnival is certainly pricey as the four variants range from R799 995 to R1 024 995. However, once you have test driven it, the cost makes sense as this is an impressively luxurious vehicle in every regard. For those looking for a premium people-mover, the Carnival should be the first 7-seater that you consider.