Kia Carnival IV (facelift 2023) 3.5 GDI Smartstream V6 (294 Hp) Automatic 9 Seats


Overall Rating

8.1 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 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)

IV (facelift 2023) Overview:

Kia Carnival (IV (facelift 2023)). With 355 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2085 kg, it’s on the heavier side. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. With seating for 9, it’s perfect for larger families.

3.5 GDI Smartstream V6 (294 Hp) Automatic 9 Seats Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

This is the most powerful engine option, providing an impressive 294 Hp. It ensures effortless acceleration and strong pulling power, ideal for heavy loads or frequent highway use.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption remains high at 11.1-11.2 l/100 km, reflecting its powerful V6 nature. It's a trade-off for those who prioritize maximum power and refinement.

Best Use Case: Heavy-duty family transport / Premium performance / Towing

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Spacious and highly versatile interior with up to 9 seats
  • • Modern and stylish exterior design, blending minivan practicality with SUV appeal
  • • Wide range of engine options, including efficient hybrid and torquey diesel
  • • Comfortable ride quality, ideal for long family journeys
  • • Generous cargo capacity, especially with rear seats folded

Cons:

  • • V6 petrol engines can be quite thirsty, impacting running costs
  • • Large dimensions can make urban parking and maneuvering challenging
  • • Not all engine options are available in every market
  • • Euro NCAP rating of 4 stars is good, but not class-leading 5 stars

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(IV: June, 2020 - October, 2023).

General:
Brand:Kia
Model:Carnival
Generation:IV (facelift 2023)
Modification (Engine):3.5 GDI Smartstream V6 (294 Hp) Automatic 9 Seats
Start of production:November, 2023
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:9
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:294 Hp @ 6400 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:84.7 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:355 Nm @ 5000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:Smartstream / G6DT More details about the engine Smartstream / G6DT
Engine displacement:3470
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:92 mm mm
Piston Stroke:87 mm mm
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12.8-13 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:9.2 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:11.1-11.2 l/100 km
Weight-to-power ratio:7.1 kg/Hp, 141.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.9 kg/Nm, 170.7 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:2080-2090
Fuel tank capacity:72 l
Size:
Length:5155 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1995 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1775 mm mm [35mm more]
Wheelbase:3090 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Width including mirrors:2266 mm
Front track:1741-1746 mm
Rear (Back) track:1741-1746 mm
Front overhang:935 mm
Rear overhang:1130 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):173 mm
Approach angle:15.4°
Departure angle:20°
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears8
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs, 325 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc, 325 mm
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size235/60 R18; 235/55 R19
Wheel rims size7J x 18; 7.5J x 19
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Kia Carnival?