2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Kia Carnival

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved significantly from its rugged origins, transforming into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Once a utilitarian vehicle, it now boasted features like heated, ventilated, and massaging seats wrapped in premium leather. The Range Rover's design, despite nearing a decade old, remained timeless with its hallmark blacked-out windshield, roof pillars, and clean styling. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with its high-contrast Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although the infotainment system was not as advanced as newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Carnival offered a unique design approach, setting itself apart with distinct trim levels. The Carnival's exterior featured SUV styling elements, such as a floating roof design and robust roof-rack, while the interior continued the SUV theme with a dashboard and center console reminiscent of a crossover. The Carnival's design was sharp and angular, winning praise for its tasteful and upscale appearance. Inside, the Carnival provided a practical and stylish environment, with options like VIP Lounge Seats in the SX Prestige trim, adding a touch of luxury to the minivan experience.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivered smooth and rapid acceleration. The Range Rover's 4WD system, with a two-speed transfer case and Terrain Response 2 traction control, ensured off-road capability. However, its adaptive air suspension, while providing a comfortable ride, struggled to manage the vehicle's weight and tall center of gravity on winding roads. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 20 mpg combined, but real-world testing showed an average of 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Kia Carnival featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, driving the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Carnival's engine provided smooth and effortless acceleration, with driving modes like Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart available. While the Smart mode occasionally delayed downshifts, switching to Sport mode improved responsiveness. The Carnival's fuel economy was rated at 22 mpg combined, with real-world testing achieving 21.7 mpg. The front-wheel-drive Carnival felt taut and athletic, though it could be stiff over uneven surfaces.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's air suspension offered a kneel mode for easier access, but shorter passengers still found entry challenging. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability, resulting in an uncomfortable seating position. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for a small center-console bin. Luggage volume was also restricted, with a maximum cargo space of 59.8 cubic feet.

The 2022 Kia Carnival excelled in practicality, with a flexible seating arrangement and ample cargo space. The second row featured individual captain's chairs, and the Slide Flex seat configuration allowed for various seating and cargo options. The SX Prestige trim offered luxurious VIP Lounge Seats, though they limited maximum cargo volume. The Carnival's rear cargo area provided 40.2 cubic feet of space, expandable to 86.9 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded. Removing the second-row seats created a cavernous 145.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. While the InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, it offered numerous features and functions. The Range Rover also included a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for added convenience.

The 2022 Kia Carnival's technology varied by trim level. The LX trim included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Starting with EX trim, the Carnival featured a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system with wired smartphone integration, navigation, and UVO Link connected services. The SX trim added a dual-screen rear entertainment system, while the SX Prestige included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Kia provided a comprehensive quick reference guide to help users navigate the technology.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came equipped with essential safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) as standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The EX trim added features like front parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist. The Carnival also included an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist. The SX trim featured a surround-view camera system, while the SX Prestige added a Blind View Monitor. Crash-test results were unavailable at the time of review.