2023 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2023 Kia Carnival presented a unique blend of style and functionality, setting itself apart from the typical minivan. It featured a distinctive design with high-tech lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim, which contributed to its upscale image. The SX Prestige trim, in particular, offered a sophisticated interior with dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality materials that enhanced the overall aesthetic. Despite its minivan classification, the Carnival's design and features made it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and tech-savvy vehicle.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV70 exuded luxury with its design elements borrowed from the G70 compact luxury sedan. The split-bar headlights and chrome line that curved from behind the rear window gave it a coupe-like appearance without sacrificing versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a testament to luxury, with top-notch materials, excellent fit and finish, and a contemporary yet classic design. The climate controls were seamlessly integrated into a curving bezel, and the touchscreen rose organically from the dash, creating a harmonious and elegant interior environment.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through a front-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a satisfying driving experience with multiple driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport. Despite its lack of all-wheel drive or a hybrid powertrain, the Carnival's V6 engine provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers. However, the brakes showed signs of fading during a mountain descent, and the vehicle experienced more wind noise at higher speeds. Overall, the Carnival offered a firm, sporty ride quality, though it was softer and smoother when fully loaded.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV70 Electrified variant featured a 77.4-kWh battery powering two electric motors, delivering a combined 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower. The GV70 provided a refined and well-rounded driving experience, blending comfort and sharp handling. The electric version offered 236 miles of range and fast charging capabilities, though it leaned slightly more towards comfort than sportiness.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a spacious and versatile interior, with a driving position and center console reminiscent of an SUV. It featured three types of upholstery, with the SX Prestige trim offering genuine leather, though it felt stiff. The Carnival's three-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated steering wheel added to its comfort. The smart sliding doors and VIP Lounge Seats provided convenience, though they limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. Without the VIP Lounge Seats, the Carnival offered a maximum cargo space of 145.1 cubic feet, comparable to a Chevrolet Suburban.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with them in use, which was above average for its class. It featured a hands-free power liftgate and a well-designed interior with decently large cupholders and a helpful tray in the center console. While the front seats were comfortable and easy to adjust, the rear seats offered less legroom, requiring front-row occupants to slide their seats forward. The rear bench did recline, providing some comfort for passengers.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a visually impressive and user-friendly experience. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a complimentary 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 2023 Genesis GV70 came standard with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was easy to use, with large icons and logical menu navigation. The GV70 also featured a rotary dial for scrolling and selecting, though its proximity to the vehicle's rotary shifter could cause confusion. The vehicle was equipped with four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and the Genesis digital key were available features.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems, including 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 Carnival was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for 2022, though the NHTSA had not performed crash tests at the time of review.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a full suite of driver-assistance technology, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Advance Package on the 2.5T added a blind-spot camera system, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree parking camera system. The Electrified GV70 included most of these features as standard, with the head-up display available in the Prestige trim.