2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder showcased a bold redesign, drawing inspiration from Nissan's new SUV design language. It featured a modern take on the V-motion grille, complemented by LED headlights and slim daytime running lights. The design paid homage to the original Pathfinder with a bulky C-pillar and a three-slot grille. The Pathfinder offered 14 paint options, including a black roof that extended onto the C-pillar. The SUV's side panels and hood gave it a robust appearance, aligning more with the Kia Telluride than the Toyota Highlander. The Pathfinder was slightly wider and shorter than its predecessor, with increased legroom, aiming to project a more rugged and capable image. It came in four trims, with standard features like body-color door handles and chrome accents. The interior offered eight-passenger seating, with options for captain's chairs, and a range of upholstery choices. The Pathfinder's interior was considered upscale, especially in higher trims, rivaling competitors like the Highlander and Telluride.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, in contrast, presented a unique style that set it apart from typical minivans. It featured a lower driving position and an SUV-like center console. The Carnival came in four trims, with prices ranging from $33,100 to $46,200. The SX Prestige trim, tested with Astra Blue paint and additional packages, had an MSRP of $49,285. The Carnival's second year in the U.S. market brought updates like a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and touchscreen infotainment system in the SX trim. The SX Prestige offered eight-passenger seating as standard, with optional VIP Lounge Seats. The Carnival's design was upscale, with high-tech lighting, intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. The interior featured dual screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality materials. The Carnival's ride quality varied with passenger load, offering a firm ride with fewer passengers and a smoother experience when fully loaded. Overall, the Carnival was praised for its style and driving experience, though it faced some challenges with braking and wind noise.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the previous CVT. The Pathfinder was available in FWD and AWD configurations, with different drive modes for each. The FWD model achieved an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, while the AWD version offered slightly better highway mileage. The Pathfinder's suspension provided a stable ride, and its steering was responsive, making it easy to maneuver. It boasted a 6,000-pound towing capacity, with trailer sway control technology enhancing stability.

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 four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport. The Carnival's FWD configuration achieved an EPA-rated 22 mpg combined. Despite lacking AWD and hybrid options, the V6 engine provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers. The transmission performed smoothly, and Sport mode was effective on steep roads. However, the brakes showed signs of fading during a mountain descent. The Carnival's ride quality was firm with fewer passengers and softer when fully loaded. Overall, it was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey was noted for being more athletic.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder's interior was designed for comfort and flexibility. It featured improved insulation and acoustic glass to reduce noise. The Pathfinder offered best-in-class front-seat legroom and additional hip room for third-row passengers. The EZ Flex Latch and Glide system allowed easy access to the third row, even with car seats installed. The second-row center console was removable, providing additional storage space. The Pathfinder offered 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The interior was spacious, with heated and ventilated seats available in higher trims.

The 2023 Kia Carnival's interior was designed to resemble an SUV, with a lower driving position and SUV-like center console. It offered three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX Prestige trim. The Carnival featured a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The smart sliding doors provided easy access to the second and third rows. The VIP Lounge Seats in the SX Prestige trim offered a luxurious experience but limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. The third-row seat was spacious, 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. The maximum cargo space with the second-row seats removed was 145.1 cubic feet.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a range of technology features, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. The Pathfinder Platinum featured a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel and head-up display. The technology was user-friendly and accessible across different trim levels.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a sophisticated and visually appealing interface. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Carnival offered additional tech features like Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision. The optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system provided streaming capabilities, though it was not widely used by passengers. The Carnival's technology package was comprehensive, though the Bose audio system was considered mediocre.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder came standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. It also featured a driver alertness monitor and forward-collision warning. The Pathfinder had ten airbags, with an additional airbag in the Platinum trim. However, it had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a range of safety features, with standard collision warnings and avoidance systems. It included a rear-seat reminder system and a Safe Exit System. The Carnival EX trim added Junction Turning Detection and Highway Driving Assist, while the SX trim featured a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Highway Driving Assist technology was praised for its accuracy and reliability. The IIHS named the Carnival a Top Safety Pick for 2022, though the NHTSA had not conducted crash tests.