Looking at it, the Kia Carnival has unmatched versatility in terms of accommodation, capable of adapting to the unique needs of any family or the demands of business. It delivers excellent performance, efficient space use, ease of comfort, a wide array of safety features, and most of all a ranking as a genuine MPV.
The headroom and legroom on the three rows are both more spacious compared to others of the same category. Its third row is even one of the most comfortable that any minivan can offer. And with this same row being folded into the floor, it can promise 142 cubic feet of space for the luggage.
To add more fun to this festival-ready vehicle, it has the optional DVD entertainment system in the rear seat and an overhead conversation mirror so as not to keep the people on the driver’s and passenger’s seats out from what’s going on in the back.
Other interior features include the easily accessible controls for the convenience of the driver, the five-speed A/T with Shiftronic feature, the front foldable tray, cup and bottle holders, glove box, and door pockets to keep things in place, active head rests, dual airbags, remote keyless entry with alarm, auto light control system, dual A/C with Tri-Zone, satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB audio jack.
Although the exterior isn’t a head turner like an actual carnival on parade, this Kia model can still compete with other minivans like the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey, especially in the price arena.
Up front, it can easily be distinguished from other brands’ minivans since it is more elongated, pointed and has a huge windshield that gives the driver a better view of what’s ahead. Moving your gaze toward the body will let you see the roof-mounted antenna, the 17-inch or 16-inch alloy wheels for the EX and LX trim levels, respectively, and the door handles that don’t seem to be out of place anymore for their color already matches that of the door. The exterior also features the automatic sliding doors and tailgate, electric rear quarter glass, and electric folding side mirrors.
But what helps the Carnival hold a candle to its rivals is that it is both reliable and economical. For one, it comes with one of the best warranties in the automotive market. Second, whether in good or bad weather, on smooth or rough roads, in the city or on the highway, it delivers good performance. In fact, with its 2.9-liter engine, it is reliable, the cost of repairs and maintenance is low and fuel consumption is close to 10 km per liter. To keep the occupants safe, it is equipped with backup sensors, ABS and four-wheel disc brakes. It is fitted with an oxidation catalyst which reduces the emissions of carbon monoxide, nonmethane hydrocarbons and formaldehyde, among other hazardous air pollutants.
Specifications
Vehicle 2011 Kia Carnival EX (LWB)
Type Multipurpose Vehicle (MPV)
Engine 2.9L 16 Valves, DOHC, CRDi diesel engine with turbo intercooler
Transmission Five-speed AT with shiftronic feature
Maximum power 160 ps at 3,700 rpm
Maximum torque 35 kg-m at 2,000 rpm
Dimensions
Length 5,130 mm
Width 1,985 mm
Height 1,760 mm
Wheelbase 3,020 mm
Tire size 235/60R17
Wheel size and type 17” aluminum alloy
Price as tested P1.695 million
