2023 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Lexus GX

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 front and rear lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim, which contributed to its upscale image. The SX Prestige trim, in particular, was equipped with dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and a flashy dashboard trim that mirrored the exterior's sophisticated appearance. The interior materials were of high quality, and the robust transmission shifter added a sense of durability and refinement.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX exuded a commanding presence with its massive spindle grille and 8.1 inches of ground clearance. The GX's design was sleeker compared to the blocky designs of other Toyota models, and its short wheelbase and minimal overhangs suggested a vehicle engineered for off-road capability. However, the interior was marred by an excessive amount of plastic, which detracted from its luxury badge. Despite this, the GX offered luxury touches such as heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery, though the overall aesthetic leaned more towards functionality than opulence.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It was EPA-rated at 22 mpg in combined driving and offered a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. The Carnival lacked all-wheel drive and hybrid options, which were available in some of its competitors. Despite this, the V6 engine provided ample power, and the transmission operated smoothly. The Carnival's brakes, however, showed signs of fading during a steep descent, though they performed well in other driving conditions. The minivan offered a firm, sporty ride quality, which softened when fully loaded, and it handled speed bumps with composure.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 delivered a satisfying linear power delivery and a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX's fuel economy was less impressive, with an EPA estimate of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The vehicle's weight contributed to a noticeable roll through corners, though it remained predictable and controllable. The GX featured a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential and a standard 4WD system, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a unique driving experience, with a lower driving position and an SUV-like center console. It featured three types of upholstery, with the SX Prestige trim offering genuine leather. The Carnival's interior was equipped with a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The VIP Lounge Seats in the second row provided comfort but limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. The third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the Carnival offered 40.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind it. Without the VIP Lounge Seats, the Carnival's maximum cargo capacity was 145.1 cubic feet.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained ample cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. The GX featured hard buttons for controls, which some users preferred over touchscreens. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and fold-out cupholders, while the third row was tight and best suited for emergencies. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige was equipped with 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, 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 offered streaming capabilities, though it was not widely used by teenagers during testing.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. The GX included three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium stereo. However, the infotainment system felt dated compared to other Lexus models, with lagging graphics and a lack of modern features. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came 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, and 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 yet tested it.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included several advanced driver assistance systems. These included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. While the GX lacked some top-end features, its safety technology was significantly newer than its 14-year-old design might suggest.