2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, truck-based roots, reminiscent of the SUV craze of the 1980s. Unlike many modern SUVs that have transitioned to car-based platforms, the 4Runner stayed true to its origins, sharing its underpinnings with the Toyota Tacoma pickup. This design choice was not due to stubbornness but rather a strategic decision by Toyota, which already had the Highlander for family duties, allowing the 4Runner to cater to off-road enthusiasts. Its adventurous spirit was evident in its high ride height, boxy proportions, and sharply angled front bumper, all designed for tackling obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's functionality was paramount, though its dash layout was a stark reminder of its last redesign in 2009.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival distinguished itself with a unique sense of style and impressive technology, setting it apart from typical minivans. While it lacked an off-road or overlanding package, the Carnival relied on its distinctive design and upscale image to attract buyers. The SX Prestige trim, in particular, showcased high-tech front and rear lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim, creating an attractive and upscale appearance. Inside, the Carnival's dual instrumentation and infotainment screens added sophistication, while the interior materials and robust transmission shifter conveyed a sense of quality. Despite some shortcomings, such as the black alloy wheels and certain interior controls, the Carnival's overall design and features made it a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and technologically advanced minivan.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. While this engine was reliable and provided a decent initial acceleration, it felt underwhelming in most driving situations. The power was routed through a five-speed automatic transmission to either the rear wheels or an available 4WD system with a low range. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome, with noticeable body roll and a jostling experience over bumps. However, off-road, the suspension excelled, effortlessly absorbing rocks and bumps. The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road models featured Crawl Control and a locking differential, enhancing their off-road capabilities. The 4Runner could tow up to 5,000 pounds, which was more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, on the other hand, 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 powertrain provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers, and the transmission operated flawlessly. However, the Carnival lacked AWD and a hybrid powertrain, which would have been beneficial in certain driving conditions. The brakes performed well in most situations, though they faded during a mountain descent. The Carnival's ride quality was firm and sporty with a single occupant, but it softened with a full load. Overall, the Carnival was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey offered a slightly more athletic experience.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum of 89.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity in the two-row version, slightly more than the three-row model's 88.8 cubic feet. With the second-row seats in use, the two-row 4Runner provided 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space. The optional third-row seat increased seating capacity to seven but reduced cargo space to just 9 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window, making it easy to stow items. Despite its age, the 4Runner's cabin was functional, though not as spacious or efficient as more modern SUVs.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, in contrast, offered a more SUV-like driving experience with a lower driving position and a center console similar to those found in SUVs. The Carnival's interior featured three types of upholstery, with the SX Prestige trim offering 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 added convenience, though they limited maximum cargo volume to 86.9 cubic feet. Without the VIP Lounge Seats, the Carnival offered up to 145.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the smart power liftgate provided easy access to the cargo area.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system was straightforward, with hard buttons and dials for easy operation, especially when wearing gloves. While it covered the tech basics, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. Optional upgrades included navigation, HD radio, and a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, elevating the interior's appearance. The digital instrumentation impressed with its lush graphics and changing imagery 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. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision. The optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system offered streaming capabilities, though it was not widely used by teenagers during testing.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars in frontal and side-impact testing from the NHTSA but received three stars for rollover testing.

The 2023 Kia Carnival featured a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems, with additional features available on higher trims. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Carnival's rear-seat reminder system and Safe Exit System added unique safety measures. The EX trim introduced Junction Turning Detection and Highway Driving Assist, while the SX trim added a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor. The IIHS named the 2023 Carnival a Top Safety Pick for 2022, though the NHTSA had not yet performed crash tests.