2023 Kia Carnival vs 2024 BMW X5

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 feel of the vehicle. Despite its minivan classification, the Carnival's design and features made it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and practical family vehicle.

In contrast, the 2024 BMW X5 maintained its classic appeal with a design that had aged well since its last redesign in 2019. However, the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, as it gave the X5 a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch wheels and a light styling refresh that aligned it with other BMW models. Inside, the X5 boasted a modernized cabin with the BMW Curved Display, reduced physical switchgear, and new transmission controls, all while retaining the high-quality materials and construction that tied it to BMW's legacy.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered a choice of Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport driving modes. The Carnival's powertrain provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers, and achieved an EPA-rated 22 mpg in combined driving. However, the lack of all-wheel drive and hybrid options limited its versatility in adverse weather conditions. The brakes performed well under normal circumstances but showed signs of fading during a steep descent. Overall, the Carnival offered a satisfying driving experience, with a firm, sporty ride quality that softened when fully loaded.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured a new mild-hybrid system with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine and a more powerful electric motor. It delivered an impressive 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. The PHEV offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and achieved 22 mpg in combined driving. The adaptive damping air suspension and quick steering made the X5 a delight to drive, whether navigating narrow paths or taking on Southern California's Mulholland Highway. The brakes performed admirably, and the vehicle's ability to recuperate energy during drives added to its efficiency.

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 a luxurious experience but limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. Without these seats, the Carnival offered a maximum cargo capacity of 145.1 cubic feet, rivaling that of a Chevrolet Suburban. The smart sliding doors and power liftgate added convenience, while the third-row seat provided adequate legroom and additional amenities for passengers.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e accommodated five passengers in two rows, with a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area that expanded to 71.2 cubic feet when the rear seats were folded. The split liftgate design offered a convenient seating area but required stretching to access items deep in the cargo hold. The test vehicle featured BMW's Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, which felt like the real thing, and sport seats with 20-way power adjustments. The Climate Comfort Package added heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and four-zone automatic climate control, ensuring comfort for all occupants.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige impressed with its 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, reminiscent of a Mercedes-Benz. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect Ultimate connected services. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was mediocre, and the voice recognition system had limitations. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision, as well as an optional dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Running on BMW Operating System 8.5, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and over-the-air software updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to some frustrating experiences. The available head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were highlights, providing valuable information to the driver.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came 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 and Safe Exit System added unique safety features. The Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly noteworthy, providing smooth and accurate semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Carnival earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for the 2022 calendar year, but the NHTSA had not yet performed crash tests.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, which worked well in specific traffic conditions but could be unpredictable in heavy traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance performed admirably, though occasional errant braking episodes were noted. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented it from earning a safety award. The NHTSA gave the X5 an overall crash-test rating of four stars.