2022 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Kia Carnival, a fresh addition to the automotive market, distinguished itself with unique design elements across its various trims. The LX and LX+ trims featured a standard black grille and 17-inch aluminum wheels, while the EX trim offered a more sophisticated look with a mirrored grid-pattern grille, 19-inch machined-finish wheels, and simulated leather. The SX trim further enhanced the aesthetic with black wheels, textured metal dashboard trim, and luxurious VIP Lounge Seats. The Carnival's design was a blend of SUV styling cues, such as a floating roof and roof rails, with the practicality of a minivan, making it a standout in its segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer presented a more traditional SUV appearance, built on a rear-drive platform that allowed for a long hood and athletic stance. The Explorer's design included a floating roof effect and a tapering greenhouse, contributing to its sporty look. However, the interior materials varied in quality across trims, with higher-end models offering a mix of premium and less impressive materials. Despite this, the Explorer maintained a robust and athletic presence, appealing to those seeking a classic SUV design.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided smooth and steady acceleration, although the absence of all-wheel drive or an electrified powertrain option was notable. The Carnival's towing capacity was 1,587.5 kilograms, and it offered various driving modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with an average of 10.8 L/100 km during testing, slightly above the expected 10.6 L/100 km. The Carnival's handling was taut and athletic, though it could feel stiff over uneven surfaces.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, starting with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided a towing capacity of 2,400 kilograms. The Explorer also offered a hybrid option with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, delivering 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. For those seeking more power, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine was available, generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,540 kilograms. The Explorer's ride was robust and capable, with off-road capabilities enhanced in the Timberline model.

The 2022 Kia Carnival excelled in practicality, offering eight-passenger seating with a versatile second-row bench. The SX trim featured VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments and leather upholstery, though these seats limited cargo space. The Carnival's cargo area was spacious, with 1,139 litres behind the third row and up to 4,110 litres with the second-row seats removed. The smart hands-free power-sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, though they could be inadvertently activated.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families, with available second-row captain's chairs and a third-row seat best suited for children. The Explorer's interior lacked practical storage solutions, though it offered features like a hands-free power liftgate and 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row. With both rear rows folded, the Explorer offered 2,132 litres of cargo volume, though it fell short of the Carnival's capacity.

The 2022 Kia Carnival came equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the LX trim, featuring Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system with additional features like navigation, wireless charging, and a Bose audio system. The Carnival's technology was intuitive, though it required time to fully understand and set up.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system. However, the voice recognition system was less effective, and the larger screen felt like an afterthought. The Explorer's technology was functional but could benefit from an upgrade to Sync 4.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. The Carnival received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard features like forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems were effective, though the steering wheel sensitivity could be improved.