2023 Kia Carnival vs 2024 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2023 Kia Carnival presented a unique blend of style and technology, setting itself apart from the typical minivan. While it lacked an off-road package, it boasted a distinctive design with high-tech lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. The SX Prestige trim, in particular, offered an upscale image with its Astra Blue paint and black alloy wheels, although the latter were considered somewhat uninspired. Inside, the Carnival featured dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality interior materials that elevated its overall appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduced the Z71 trim, catering to those interested in moderate off-roading. While not designed for extreme terrains, it offered a rugged appearance with gloss black-painted 18-inch alloy wheels and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat paint. The interior featured Jet Black upholstery with Torch Red accents, providing a sporty yet comfortable environment. The Traverse's design emphasized practicality and versatility, appealing to families seeking a spacious and capable SUV.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It featured front-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a satisfying driving experience with multiple driving modes. Despite its power, the Carnival lacked all-wheel drive and hybrid options, which could have improved its performance in adverse weather conditions. The brakes performed well in most situations, although they showed signs of fading during a mountain descent. Overall, the Carnival provided a firm and sporty ride, with a softer feel when fully loaded.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, replaced its previous V6 engine with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, producing 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque. This new engine offered more power and torque than its predecessor, enhancing acceleration and passing capabilities. The Traverse featured optional all-wheel drive, with the Z71 trim offering a more advanced system for improved traction. The ride quality was commendable, even with all-terrain tires, and the brakes provided a controlled stopping experience. Fuel economy estimates ranged from 17 to 21 mpg, depending on the drivetrain configuration.

The 2023 Kia Carnival defied minivan conventions with its SUV-like driving position and center console layout. It offered various upholstery options, with the SX Prestige trim featuring genuine leather. The Carnival's interior included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and smart sliding doors. The VIP Lounge Seats in the second row provided luxury but limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. Without these seats, the Carnival offered a maximum cargo capacity of 145.1 cubic feet, surpassing many SUVs.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse provided seating for up to eight passengers, with the Z71 and RS trims offering seven seats with captain's chairs. The Smart Slide second-row seats facilitated easy access to the third row, which accommodated average-sized adults. The Traverse boasted a power-folding third row and an Autosense power liftgate, enhancing cargo versatility. With the second and third rows folded, it offered approximately 96 cubic feet of cargo space. The cabin featured numerous storage compartments, including a hidden area under the center console.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige impressed with its 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 one-year subscription to Kia Connect Ultimate services. However, the Bose audio system received mixed reviews. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a sophisticated rear-seat entertainment system, although teenagers preferred their own devices.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse introduced a massive 17.7-inch infotainment touchscreen, standard across all trims, with rapid response times and intuitive menus. An 11-inch digital instrument display provided customizable information, enhancing navigation. The system ran on Google-based software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Traverse retained physical controls for essential functions, although some features, like headlight controls, were buried in the infotainment system. The Super Cruise hands-free driving aid was a notable addition, expanding its functionality to single-lane roads.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems, with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring standard across all trims. The rear-seat reminder system and Safe Exit System added unique safety elements. The Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly impressive, providing smooth and reliable semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Carnival earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2022, although its standard headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse offered a wide range of standard driver aids, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. While crash test results from the NHTSA and IIHS were pending, the Traverse's safety features provided peace of mind during our test drive.