2023 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport was described as modernist and reductive, emphasizing a clean and simple design. It offered limited flashy options, such as Firenze Red paint and diamond-turned 23-inch wheels. The test vehicle arrived in Eiger Gray with silver wheels and a Black Exterior Pack, exuding understated luxury. Inside, it featured a Deep Garnet over Ebony theme with aluminum and shiny black trim. The Range Rover Sport was available in SE P360, SE Dynamic P400, and Autobiography P440e specifications, with the test vehicle priced at $98,420. Highlights included premium LED headlights, flush-mounted door handles, and excellent aerodynamics. The interior boasted a luxurious, high-tech appearance with sustainable Ultrafabrics and Windsor leather upholstery.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, in contrast, relied on style, unique interior fittings, and impressive technology to stand out. The test vehicle, in SX Prestige trim, featured Astra Blue paint and a Rear Seat Entertainment Package, priced at $49,285. The Carnival added a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and touchscreen infotainment system as standard in the SX trim. The SX Prestige offered eight-passenger seating and optional rear-seat entertainment. The Carnival's design conveyed an upscale image with high-tech lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. Inside, dual screens, dual sunroofs, and flashy dashboard trim added sophistication, while the interior materials maintained a quality feel.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport aimed for refinement and driver-focused engagement. It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, offering 395 horsepower in the SE Dynamic model. The PHEV drivetrain in the Autobiography P440e provided 434 hp and 51 miles of electric range. A 523-hp twin-turbo V8 was available in early models. The Range Rover Sport boasted a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds and a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds. It achieved 22.3 mpg on the evaluation route. The SUV's architecture increased torsional stiffness by 35%, and it featured adaptive damping air suspension. However, it struggled against sport-tuned SUVs in handling, with noticeable roll in curves. Off-road, it excelled with 11.1 inches of ground clearance and advanced tech like Terrain Response and All Terrain Progress Control.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered 22 mpg in combined driving and a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The Carnival lacked AWD and hybrid options, which would have been beneficial in wet conditions. The V6 provided ample power, and the transmission operated smoothly. However, the brakes faded during a mountain descent. The Carnival offered a firm, sporty ride with a softer quality when fully loaded. It was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey felt more athletic.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport maintained a tall, airy driving position with a low dashboard and thin roof pillars. The air suspension could kneel for easier access. The front seats were comfortable with Windsor leather and 20-way power adjustments. The rear seat was less hospitable, with limited legroom and narrow door openings. The cargo area offered 31.9 cubic feet, expandable to 53 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Storage was decent, with a deep bin under the center armrest.

The 2023 Kia Carnival didn't feel like a typical minivan, with a lower driving position and SUV-like center console. It offered cloth, artificial leather, and genuine leather upholstery. The SX Prestige trim included heated and ventilated front seats. The Carnival's smart sliding doors revealed versatile seating options, including VIP Lounge Seats. These seats limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet but offered comfort for road trips. The third row was spacious, with USB ports and sunshades. The cargo area provided 40.2 cubic feet, expandable to 145.1 cubic feet with the second-row seats removed.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport featured a 13.7-inch digital display and a 13.1-inch touchscreen with haptic feedback. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. However, the Pivi Pro system was often confusing and frustrating. The Meridian audio system offered up to 29 speakers, and Active Noise Cancellation enhanced the driving experience. A wireless charging pad was included but difficult to access.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige had 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment screens. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a one-year Kia Connect subscription. The Bose audio system was mediocre. The voice recognition system struggled with some commands. Additional features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision. The rear-seat entertainment system offered streaming capabilities but was underutilized by teenagers.

The 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport included advanced driving assistance systems like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. It also had a surround-view camera and Remote Park Assist. The adaptive cruise control was slow to respond, and the steering assist was unsatisfactory, especially on freeway curves.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The rear-seat reminder system used ultrasonic sensors to detect movement. The Safe Exit System warned occupants of approaching vehicles. The EX trim added Junction Turning Detection and Highway Driving Assist. The SX trim included a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Highway Driving Assist was smooth and reliable. The IIHS rated the Carnival as a Top Safety Pick for 2022.