2023 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

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 interior layout gave it an SUV-like feel, with a lower driving position and a center console reminiscent of SUVs.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner maintained a classic SUV appearance with a rugged and truck-based design. The 40th Anniversary Special Edition (40 ASE) added retro body stripes, a heritage grille, and bronze accents, giving it a nostalgic yet modern look. The interior, while functional, was more utilitarian with plenty of plastic but felt solid and of quality. The 4Runner's design emphasized practicality and durability, appealing to those who appreciated a traditional SUV aesthetic with a touch of retro flair.

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. This front-wheel-drive minivan offered a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and an EPA-rated fuel economy of 22 mpg in combined driving. During testing, the Carnival averaged 21.1 mpg and demonstrated a firm, sporty ride quality, especially when driven with only the driver aboard. However, the brakes showed signs of fading during a mountain descent, though they performed well in other driving situations.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner, on the other hand, featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine delivering 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and an EPA fuel economy rating of 17 mpg in combined driving, with the 40 ASE averaging 16.9 mpg. The 4Runner excelled in off-road conditions, equipped with various 4WD systems and off-roading technologies. However, its on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration, heavy steering, and a brake pedal that lacked finesse.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a spacious and versatile interior, with seating for up to eight passengers. The SX Prestige trim featured genuine leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a three-zone automatic climate control system. The VIP Lounge Seats in the second row provided luxury but limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. Without these seats, the Carnival could accommodate up to 145.1 cubic feet of cargo, rivaling the capacity of a Chevrolet Suburban. The smart sliding doors and power liftgate added convenience, while the third-row seat was comfortable for adults.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner provided a rugged and practical interior with comfortable seating and ample storage options. The second-row seats offered good legroom and comfort, while the optional third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. Without the third row, the 4Runner provided 46.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The power-down rear window and tailgate bumper seat added versatility, making it suitable for outdoor adventures.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige featured advanced technology with dual 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment screens, offering a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, though the Bose audio system was underwhelming. Additional features like Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision enhanced the driving experience, while the rear-seat entertainment system offered streaming capabilities.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner had a more traditional approach to technology, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, with available upgrades like a JBL premium sound system. The voice recognition system performed well, though the graphics and display were dated. The 4Runner's technology focused on functionality and ease of use, appealing to those who preferred simplicity.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The rear-seat reminder system and Safe Exit System added extra layers of safety, while the Highway Driving Assist provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Carnival earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2022, though the NHTSA had not yet tested it.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered essential safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard across all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a three-star rating for front passenger protection and rollover resistance.