2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward with minor modifications from its predecessor, offering a simplified lineup with more standard features across its trims. The SEL Premium R-Line trim, in particular, boasted R-Line design elements, including 21-inch wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. Despite its bold exterior, the interior materials were criticized for their low-cost feel, with hard plastics detracting from the overall quality. The Atlas was praised for its spacious and comfortable interior, though the unlined storage areas led to unwanted noise.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival stood out with its distinctive style and impressive technology, setting it apart from typical minivans. The SX Prestige trim featured a sophisticated design with high-tech lighting and decorative elements, though the black alloy wheels were deemed uninspired. Inside, the Carnival offered dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality materials that prevented it from feeling cheap. The robust transmission shifter added a sense of quality, making the Carnival an attractive and upscale option in its segment.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a 3.6-liter V6. The turbo-four produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and an EPA fuel economy rating of 22-23 mpg combined. The V6, standard on higher trims, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. However, its acceleration was leisurely, and the drivetrain lacked refinement. The Atlas featured various driving modes and an AWD system with Active Control calibrations, but its ride quality was criticized for being busy and noisy.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. The Carnival lacked AWD and hybrid options, which could have improved its performance in wet conditions and fuel economy. Despite this, the V6 provided ample power, and the transmission operated smoothly. The brakes, however, showed signs of fading during a mountain descent. The Carnival's ride quality was firm and sporty, with a softer feel when fully loaded, making it a satisfying drive overall.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space, offering comfortable seating for seven adults and a low step-in height. The SEL Premium R-Line trim added luxury features like genuine leather upholstery and ventilated front seats. The Atlas provided ample cargo space, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 96.8 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. However, unlined storage areas led to noise issues.

The 2023 Kia Carnival's interior design mimicked an SUV, with a lower driving position and a center console similar to those found in SUVs. It offered three types of upholstery, with the SX Prestige featuring genuine leather. The Carnival's smart sliding doors and VIP Lounge Seats added convenience, though they limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. Without the VIP seats, the Carnival offered a maximum cargo space of 145.1 cubic feet. The third-row seat was spacious, with USB ports and cupholders, and the smart power liftgate revealed 40.2 cubic feet of cargo volume behind it.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came standard with the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The SE trim had a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured the MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Fender premium sound system. However, the user experience was hindered by slow loading times and a cumbersome interface.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a visually appealing and user-friendly experience. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a one-year subscription to Kia Connect Ultimate services. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision. The optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was sophisticated but underutilized by teenagers.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a surround-view camera system. However, the Lane Assist technology struggled with old construction markings, and the Atlas did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came with a robust set of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The rear-seat reminder system and Safe Exit System added unique safety elements. Higher trims offered Junction Turning Detection, Highway Driving Assist, and a surround-view camera. The Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly impressive, providing smooth and reliable assistance. The Carnival earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2022, though the NHTSA had not yet tested it.