Kia Carnival - Two Experiences with the Kia Carnival: A Comfortable Adventure

The EX+ model comes with a standard eight-seat layout, featuring three seats in both the second and third rows. This configuration offers flexibility, including the option to face the second row towards the third, a feature commonly found in more luxurious vans. The car's generous leg and headroom in the back is complemented by four USB ports, sunshades, and adjustable automatic climate control.

One of the standout practical features of the Kia Carnival is its van-like electric sliding rear doors, which make loading and unloading passengers a breeze, especially in tight parking spaces. These sliding doors are further complemented by a standard electric tailgate.

What sets the Kia Carnival apart from seven-seater SUVs is its impressive boot space, even with all seats in place. It offers a substantial 1,139 litres of cargo space behind the third row, which our four suitcases hardly made a dent in.

The car's journey from Johannesburg to Graskop, covering 400 kilometers on well-maintained toll roads, was handled with ease by the Carnival. Its reliable 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine, delivering 148 kW of power and 440 Nm of torque through an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, performed admirably. Notably, it achieved an impressive fuel consumption of 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers at highway speeds.

In terms of fuel economy, the Carnival delivered an overall consumption rate of 7.8 L/100 km for the 1,000-kilometer road trip, nearly completing the journey on one tank of fuel.

The only notable drawback was the 4.2-inch information display in the instrument cluster, which may feel small to some. Upgrading to SX derivatives offers a larger display.

In conclusion, the Carnival EX+ is a spacious and comfortable vehicle that strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency. It stands as the logical choice for those torn between an SUV and a van, offering a unique blend of features and practicality.