Kia reveals 2022 Carnival MPV

Korean carmaker Kia has launched its new model year 2022 Carnival Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) and is the first vehicle to be sold in the U.S. with Kia’s new logo. The new Kia Carnival replaces the outgoing Sedona in the US market.

Penned at Kia’s California design studio, the Carnival wears a bold and boxy appearance and conveys the visual language found on the brand’s recent and highly successful line of rugged utility vehicles –Telluride, Sorento, and Seltos. Inside, the three-row seven- or eight-passenger MPV delivers a premium level of refinement, savvy technology, and flexibility. The company claims best-in-class passenger room and best-in-class cargo room.

Ace of space
The exterior of the 2022 Carnival follows suit with Kia’s recent signature boxy SUV style. This strong design language is similar to that found on other recent Kia debuts. The carmaker’s ‘tiger nose’ grille gives substantial width to the face and integrates the high-tech LED headlamps.

In addition to the Carnival’s elevated interior styling, the all-new MPV offers plenty of space for 7- or 8-passenger flexibility, and comfort for long road trips. It packs 168.2 cubic feet of passenger room and 145.1 cubic feet of cargo room (behind first row) in LX, EX, SX trims

‘Slide-Flex’ seating for 8-passenger versions allow multiple configurations including a sliding second row center seat which, when in the forward-most position, allows the front passenger easy access the baby or child riding in it. This seat also converts into a functional table.

High on tech and connectivity
Like all of Kia’s line-up, the Carnival offers a wide array of standard and optional technology, including standard 8-inch touch-screen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, 3-inch navigation display, 3-inch full digital instrument cluster, multi-Bluetooth connectivity, up to nine USB ports for all three rows and two 110-volt power inverters,

Bose Premium sound system, available with 12 high-performance speakers, and UVO link telematics that offers an array of advanced connected vehicle features.

Built on N3 platform
The 2022 Carnival is underpinned by the same all-new third-generation N3 platform as the Sorento and sporty K5. Kia says it is lighter, stronger and quieter than the outgoing architecture.

The Carnival is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine that develops 290 hp.  This powertrain provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity for trailer, boat, or camper excursions as sought in the US MPV market. The MPV gets an expansive roster of standard Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). 

“The Kia Carnival is here to disrupt a staid segment and proves once again what is possible when conventions are shattered,” said Sean Yoon, president and CEO, Kia Motors North America, Kia Motors America. “With its SUV-like character, our new multi-purpose vehicle delivers a combination of premium design, intelligent packaging, and an abundance of innovation in safety and technology. For these reasons, the Carnival is the first vehicle to proudly wear our all-new Kia badge and is a bold signal of things to come.”

The 2022 Carnival will be offered in four trim levels: LX, EX, SX, and SX-Prestige. This all-new MPV is expected to go on sale in the second quarter of this year in the US.