Kia Carnival I (UP/GQ) 2.9 TD (126 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.2 / 10
Safety 2.0 / 5
Engine 3.2 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Kia Carnival:

The Kia Carnival is a minivan manufactured by the Korean automaker Kia since 1998. It is marketed globally under various nameplates, prominently as the Kia Sedona.
The first-generation Carnival was introduced in January 1998, and was marketed in a single, short wheelbase version. Second-generation models were marketed in short and long wheelbase variants. A rebadged variant of the second generation was offered in North America as the Hyundai Entourage. Beginning in 2010, the second-generation model received updated equipment, including Kia's corporate Tiger Nose grille, as introduced by its then new design chief, Peter Schreyer. Kia introduced its third-generation minivan in 2014, solely in a long wheelbase format. The fourth generation was introduced in 2020, when Kia also began using the Carnival nameplate worldwide....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I (UP/GQ) Overview:

Kia Carnival (I (UP/GQ)). With 338 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~12 l/100km). With a weight of 1880 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 17.3 s). The top speed reaches 168 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.

2.9 TD (126 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers very modest performance, prioritizing fuel efficiency over acceleration. Best for drivers with a relaxed driving style.

Fuel Economy

Excellent combined fuel economy for a large minivan, making it one of the most economical options in the lineup.

Best Use Case: Budget-conscious buyers / Long-distance economy

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Very spacious and practical interior for families
  • • Good value for money on the used market
  • • Comfortable ride quality for long journeys
  • • Decent fuel economy from diesel engines (for its size)
  • • Ample cargo capacity with flexible seating

Cons:

  • • Dated exterior and interior styling
  • • High fuel consumption for V6 petrol engines
  • • Modest performance across the range
  • • Mixed reliability reputation for some components
  • • Limited safety features by modern standards (2-star Euro NCAP)

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(I (UP/GQ): 1998 - 2001).

General:
Brand:Kia
Model:Carnival
Generation:I (UP/GQ)
Modification (Engine):2.9 TD (126 Hp)
Start of production:1999
End of production:2001
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:7
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:126 Hp @ 3600 rpm.
Power per litre:43.4 Hp/l
Torque:338 Nm @ 1950 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:J3 [Same engine] More details about the engine J3
Engine displacement:2902
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:6.6 l
Coolant:9.4 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:97.1 mm mm
Piston Stroke:98 mm mm
Compression ratio:19:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8.3 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:17.3 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:17.3 sec
Maximum speed:168 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:14.9 kg/Hp, 67 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.6 kg/Nm, 179.8 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:16.4 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1880
Max. weight:2545
Max load:665
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1159 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:344 l
Fuel tank capacity:75 l
Size:
Length:4890 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1900 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1730 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2910 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1625 mm
Rear (Back) track:1600 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):13 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size215/65 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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