2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 INFINITI QX60

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 underwent a comprehensive redesign, marking the beginning of its second generation. This transformation included a striking new exterior with a prominent grille, slim LED headlights, and a floating roof effect enhanced by blacked-out pillars. The interior was spacious and luxurious, featuring quilted leather upholstery and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The craftsmanship and build quality were evident, with the vehicle originating from the Nissan plant in Smyrna, Tennessee.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival offered a unique style that set it apart from typical minivans. Its design included high-tech lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. Inside, the Carnival SX featured dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, along with upscale materials. The interior was designed to prevent the minivan from feeling cheap, with features like dual power sunroofs and a robust transmission shifter adding to its appeal.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided a smooth driving experience, with improved shifting over the previous CVT model. The suspension was reworked for comfort, and the vehicle offered a serene ride, though it wasn't designed for aggressive cornering. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.9 L/100 km in the city and 9.5 on the highway.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivered 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered four driving modes and a towing capacity of 1,587 kg. While lacking AWD and hybrid options, the Carnival provided a satisfying drive with a firm, sporty ride. However, the brakes showed some fading during a mountain descent, and wind noise was noticeable at higher speeds. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 provided ample interior space with three rows of seating. The second-row seats could slide to adjust space, and the third row was accessible and comfortable for adults. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 2,135 litres available when both rear rows were folded. The QX60 also offered a towing capacity of up to 2,721 kg with additional equipment.

The 2023 Kia Carnival's interior was designed to resemble an SUV, with a lower driving position and SUV-like centre console. It offered three types of upholstery, with the SX trim featuring genuine leather. The Carnival's second-row VIP Lounge Seats provided luxury but limited cargo space to 2,460 litres. Without these seats, the Carnival could offer up to 4,110 litres of cargo space. The third row was spacious, with USB ports and cupholders for convenience.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 came equipped with a 12.3-inch InTouch Interactive infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Higher trims included a head-up display and a smart rearview mirror. The vehicle featured a nine-speaker audio system, with a 17-speaker Bose system available on higher trims.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX boasted dual 12.3-inch digital screens for instrumentation and infotainment, offering features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Kia Connect services. The Carnival included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was considered mediocre.

The 2022 INFINITI QX60 was expected to achieve high safety ratings, with a comprehensive suite of airbags and advanced driver assistance systems. Features included forward emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and ProPilot Assist.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a range of safety features, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist standard across all trims. The EX trim added adaptive cruise control and Safe Exit Assist. The Carnival was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though standard headlights received a Poor rating.