Kia is bringing back its luxury MPV, the Carnival, which is slated to make its comeback on October 3 in the Indian market. The South Korean company discontinued the previous model as it didn’t want to give it the BS6 Phase 2 update. Kia first showcased the new Carnival at the 2023 Auto Expo KA4 concept which gets a complete design and features makeover.
Kia Carnival: Features
The Carnival is a premium vehicle and is packed with the latest features like a twin 12.3-inch infotainment system and a digital driver’s console. The centre console sports a 4.2-inch TFT display, six standard USB Type-C ports for all three rows, two power outlets, and two 115V inverters for the top models in the global market. It also has ventilated and massage seats, a digital rearview mirror, a head-up display and a digital key. The Carnival’s USP is that is available in a multiple-seating set-up like an 8 to 11-seater or lounge-like seat in the second row.
The Carnival comes with ADAS features that include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Crossing, Lange-change Oncoming, Lange-change Side and Evasive Steering Assist.
Kia Carnival: Engine Specs
In the international market, the Carnival is available with a 3.5-litre V6 GDI petrol with an output of 283 bhp and 352 Nm of torque, which is mated to an 8-speed automatic. The latest powertrain to join the Carnival lineup is the 1.6-litre turbo-hybrid engine paired with a 54kW motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission. It has a combined output of 239 bhp367 Nm of torque. The Carnival Hybrid gets specially designed 17-inch aerodynamic wheels, Active Air Flaps integrated into the front fascia, and paddle regenerative braking.
The Indian model is expected to retain the 197 bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine with 440 Nm of peak torque. It will also get an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 2024 Carnival is expected to start from Rs 50 lakh, ex-showroom.