2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged, maintaining the broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal of its predecessor. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the previous L-shaped trim. The rear of the vehicle saw the most significant change, with the introduction of thin LED taillights integrated into a darker trim, replacing the old square lights. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, enhancing its modern appeal. The interior boasted premium materials, including high-quality leather and rich wood trim, contributing to a luxurious atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival distinguished itself with a unique style and impressive technology, setting it apart from typical minivans. The Carnival came in various trims, with the SX Prestige offering upscale features like Astra Blue paint and a Rear Seat Entertainment Package. The interior featured dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and sophisticated dashboard trim. The Carnival's interior materials were of good quality, and the transmission shifter's solid action added to the sense of quality. The Carnival's design and features made it an attractive and upscale option in the minivan segment.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 powertrain provided effortless acceleration, with Land Rover estimating a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. The standard rear-wheel-steering enhanced maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tight spaces. The Range Rover's off-road capability was impressive, thanks to the Terrain Response system, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, producing 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds and was EPA-rated for 22 mpg in combined driving. The Carnival featured Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport driving modes. While it lacked all-wheel drive and a hybrid powertrain, the V6 engine provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers. The transmission operated smoothly, and Sport mode was effective for climbing steep roads. The Carnival's brakes performed well in most situations, though they experienced some fade during a mountain descent. The ride quality was firm and sporty with a single occupant, while a full load resulted in a softer, smoother ride. Overall, the Carnival offered a satisfying driving experience, though the Honda Odyssey was noted for being slightly more athletic.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The front seats were comfortable, with available massage functions, and there was plenty of storage space for personal items. The second row offered generous space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2023 Kia Carnival's interior design resembled an SUV, with a lower driving position and a center console similar to those found in SUVs. The Carnival offered three types of upholstery, with the SX Prestige featuring genuine leather. The test vehicle had a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Carnival's smart sliding doors and VIP Lounge Seats in the second row provided comfort and convenience, though they limited maximum cargo volume to 86.9 cubic feet. The third row was spacious enough for adults, with USB ports and cupholders. The Carnival offered 40.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, with a deep well for additional storage. Removing the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 145.1 cubic feet.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a 13-inch touchscreen with the new Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige boasted 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, similar to a Mercedes-Benz. The digital instrumentation featured lush graphics and changed appearance based on the time of day. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a one-year subscription to Kia Connect Ultimate connected services. The Carnival offered features like Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision. The optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system allowed streaming content, though teenagers preferred their own devices.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the surround-view cameras proving especially helpful off-road. However, the Range Rover lacked some advanced safety features found in rivals, such as advanced high beams and emergency stop functions. Neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS had published crash test results for the Range Rover.

The 2023 Kia Carnival included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The rear-seat reminder system used ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, while the Safe Exit System warned occupants of approaching vehicles. The EX trim added Junction Turning Detection and Highway Driving Assist, while the SX trim included a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Highway Driving Assist technology was praised for its accuracy and smooth operation. The IIHS named the 2023 Carnival a Top Safety Pick for 2022, though the NHTSA had not performed crash tests.