2022 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Kia Sorento

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 SynTex simulated leather. The SX trim further enhanced the aesthetic with black wheels, textured metal dashboard trim, and luxurious VIP Lounge Seats. The Carnival's SUV-inspired design included features like simulated skid plates, a floating roof, and roof rails, contributing to its appealing and angular appearance. Despite the visible sliding door tracks, the Carnival's design was considered superior to its competitors, offering a more upscale and crossover-like interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, exuded a rugged and stylish presence. The X-Line package added rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, and robust roof rails, enhancing the SUV's already attractive design. The Sorento's interior was noted for its quality, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim contributing to a luxurious feel. The cabin's construction was solid, with attention to detail evident even in the most affordable models. The Sorento's interior style and traditional transmission shifter did not compromise practical storage space, making it a versatile choice for families. Overall, the Sorento offered a sense of quality and style that was appreciated by drivers.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was equipped with a new 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, driving the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. While all-wheel drive and electrified powertrains were not available, the Carnival boasted a towing capacity of 1,587.5 kilograms. The V6 engine provided smooth and effortless acceleration, with the automatic transmission operating unobtrusively. The Carnival offered various driving modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart, with Sport mode addressing delayed downshift responses. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with real-world testing averaging 10.8 L/100 km. The Carnival's front-wheel-drive setup contributed to a taut and athletic driving experience, though it could feel stiff over uneven surfaces.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's standard engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which was considered underpowered. However, the Sorento offered more satisfying engine options, including a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, provided a more energetic driving experience, with a 0-60 mph time of approximately 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's suspension offered a blend of compliance and composure, delivering excellent body motion control and communication. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres for the base engine and 9.9 L/100 km for the turbo engine, though real-world testing showed higher averages. The Sorento's driving dynamics were likened to a sports sedan, offering an engaging experience.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was a practical choice, offering eight-passenger seating with a versatile second-row bench seat. The SX trim featured VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and Ottoman-style leg rests. While these seats were luxurious, they limited cargo volume as they couldn't be removed or folded flat. The Carnival's third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the rear cargo area provided ample space, with 1,139 litres of volume behind the third-row seat. Folding the third-row seats increased cargo space to 2,460 litres, and removing the second-row seats expanded it to 4,110 litres. The Carnival's smart power-sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, though they could open unintentionally.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior was luxurious, with features like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Second-row captain's chairs were standard from the EX trim, offering comfort and convenience for families. However, the third-row seat was cramped for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. The Sorento's cargo space was limited to 357 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,274 litres with the third row folded and 2,139 litres with the second row down. The Sorento's smart power tailgate added convenience, though it could open unintentionally.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered a range of technology features, starting with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on the LX trim. Higher trims featured a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system with navigation, satellite radio, and connected services. The Carnival also included a Passenger View camera, digital instrument cluster, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system on the SX trim. The technology was generally intuitive, though a quick reference guide was recommended for setup.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on lower trims, with a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The system included navigation, satellite radio, and connected services, though the larger screen required a cable for smartphone connectivity. The Sorento's infotainment system was intuitive, though the design and colours might not appeal to everyone. A 12-speaker Bose audio system was reserved for the SX trim, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure assistance, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The Carnival also included an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist. The IIHS awarded the Carnival a Top Safety Pick rating, though the NHTSA had not rated it.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured a range of safety technologies, including a rear-seat reminder system, Junction Assist, and a Blind View Monitor. The Sorento also offered Highway Driving Assist, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system. The IIHS rated the Sorento as a Top Safety Pick, though the LED headlights received a Poor rating in Canada. The NHTSA gave the Sorento a four-star overall crash-test rating, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact protection and rollover resistance.