2022 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Kia Carnival, a fresh addition to the 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 refined look with a mirrored grid-pattern grille, 19-inch machined-finish wheels, and simulated leather. The SX trim added black wheels, textured metal dashboard trim, and real leather, with VIP Lounge Seats as a standout feature. The Carnival's SUV-inspired styling included simulated skid plates, a floating roof design, and roof rails, giving it a robust appearance. Despite the visible sliding door tracks, Kia cleverly integrated them into the vehicle's character lines, maintaining an appealing design that stood out in its segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Ascent introduced the Onyx Edition trim, which embraced the trend of blacked-out exterior trim. This trim level featured black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather seats. The Ascent's styling, particularly in the Onyx Edition, gave it a sporty appearance, although the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat. The interior offered a gray two-tone scheme with metallic trim, creating a modern and functional atmosphere. While the Ascent's design was practical and ready for various weather conditions, it lacked the upscale flair of the Carnival.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This front-wheel-drive setup provided smooth and steady acceleration, although it lacked all-wheel drive and electrified powertrain options. The Carnival's towing capacity was 1,587.5 kilograms, and it offered driving modes like Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with a tested average of 10.8 L/100 km. The Carnival's handling was taut and athletic, though it could feel stiff over uneven surfaces.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It came standard with a CVT and all-wheel drive, offering a towing capacity of 2,270 kilograms. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with a tested average of 11.5 L/100 km. The flat-four engine layout contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling. The CVT provided smooth acceleration and manual shift control, while Subaru's X-Mode off-road system and 22 centimetres of ground clearance added off-road capability. The Ascent's driving experience was nimble and responsive, though its lane-keeping technology could feel uncertain.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered practicality with its minivan design, featuring eight-passenger seating and versatile second-row configurations. The SX trim included VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and Ottoman-style leg rests. The Carnival's cargo space was generous, with 1,139 litres behind the third row and up to 4,110 litres with seats removed. The smart hands-free power-sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, though they could open unintentionally. The Carnival's interior was upscale, with SUV-style design elements and ample storage.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent accommodated up to eight passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent's interior featured water-resistant materials, triple-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The second-row offered captain's chairs and a panoramic sunroof, while the cargo space measured 458 litres behind the third row and up to 2,140 litres with seats folded. The Ascent's interior was practical, with ample storage and user-friendly features, though the third-row comfort was limited for taller adults.

The 2022 Kia Carnival's technology varied by trim, with the LX offering an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system, navigation, wireless charging, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Carnival's tech was intuitive, though setting it up required time. The EX+ and SX trims included advanced features like a surround-view camera and Blind View Monitor.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent's base trim included a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The Ascent's infotainment system was user-friendly, though voice recognition needed improvement. The Onyx Edition used standard stereo speakers, while the Premier trim offered a digital rearview mirror and a 180-degree front camera.

The 2022 Kia Carnival came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera. The Carnival received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. It featured Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring. While effective, EyeSight had limitations in direct sunlight and lacked refinement. Additional safety features included LED headlights and blind-spot monitoring on higher trims.