2022 Kia Carnival review

1. Passenger comfort

The 2022 Kia Carnival is the personification of comfort on the move. Heated front seats are available on the EX trim and above, extending to the second row too on the SX Prestige. Sliding rear doors also allow for ease of movement on exit and entry. Staying connected to friends and favorite shows is a surefire way to keep passengers happy. All 2022 Carnival models have USB ports across all three rows, and smartphone integration via the standard Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™. A wireless smartphone charging pad is available with the EX trim while the SX and SX Prestige step it up a gear, offering rear-row occupants a dual-screen entertainment system.

2. MPV-focused tech

This minivan is awash with the latest technology. Pick the EX trim or above for a 12.3-inch touchscreen with built-in navigation and tri-zone automatic climate control. When things get rowdy (or suspiciously too quiet) the EX trim and above also have a rear-row camera monitoring system and cabin intercom, allowing your front-row occupants to monitor and speak directly to the kids (or adults) causing a ruckus.

3. Convenient seat configurations

The 2022 Carnival offers plenty of configuration options from the get-go. For maximum capacity and flexibility, the eight-seat EX and SX trims offer a second-row bench seat with independent slide and remove functionality for each seat section.

The seven-seat SX Prestige delivers second-row VIP-style seating with extended recline, heating, and ventilation. The 2022 Carnival's third row folds down into the floor, taking cargo capacity behind the second row up to 86.9 cu-ft (all trims). If you know you'll be coming away with a furniture haul from the antique store, the Carnival's second-row seating is fully removable on the LX, EX, and SX trims, revealing 145.1 cu-ft of storage space.

4. V6 engine

A powerful V6 engine is the beating heart of this engaging MPV. The 3.5L V6 powertrain is suited to MPV life, pumping out 290 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive across all trims, this is a practical setup that handles well. For vacationing on the move with bikes, boats, or a camper, why not trailer it? The 2022 Carnival can tow trailers and sports equipment with ease. When properly equipped, expect an estimated 3,500 lbs of towing capacity with the V6.

5. Helpful base trim features

Enjoy your time behind the wheel with the standard features of the 2022 Carnival LX trim. Drive Mode Select lets you choose the handling that suits your driving style. Choose Smart mode if you want the Carnival to adapt to different road conditions and situations or Comfort mode to enhance your long-distance drives. Helping you make light work of tight spaces, the LX also has a rearview camera with parking guidance for on-point maneuvers your kids will be impressed by.