2022 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Acura RDX

The 2022 Kia Carnival, a fresh addition to the automotive scene, showcased a distinctive design that set it apart from its competitors. Each trim level offered unique styling elements, with the LX and LX+ trims featuring a standard black grille and 17-inch aluminum wheels. The EX trim elevated the aesthetic with 19-inch machined-finish wheels, simulated wood trim, and SynTex leather, while the SX trim added black wheels and real leather. The Carnival's SUV-inspired design included features like skid plates, a floating roof, 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 a sleek look. The Carnival's design was praised for its sharp angles and tasteful execution, making it a standout in its segment.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura RDX boasted a sharp, angular style that was both unique and conventional. Its signature grille, flanked by sleek wraparound headlights, gave the front a sporty and aggressive look. The side profile featured a distinctive character line, suggesting motion even when stationary. However, the rear design was more conventional, resembling other small SUVs. Inside, the RDX departed from the horizontal dashboard trend, opting for a vertical layout with a centre stack of controls. The cockpit emphasized performance with gear-selector buttons and a drive-mode dial. While the interior wasn't as modern as some rivals, it offered a familiar feel for those averse to digital cockpits. The RDX's design was a blend of sporty intent and traditional elements, appealing to those seeking a balance between the two.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was equipped with a robust 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This power was channelled to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. While all-wheel drive and electrified powertrains were absent, the Carnival offered a towing capacity of 1,587.5 kilograms. The V6 engine provided smooth and steady acceleration, and the transmission operated seamlessly. Driving modes included Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart, with Smart mode being the preferred choice despite occasional delayed downshifts. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with real-world testing averaging 10.8 L/100 km. The Carnival's handling was taut and athletic, though it could feel stiff over uneven surfaces when lightly loaded.

The 2023 Acura RDX featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard, enhancing traction and handling. The RDX accelerated to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, offering immediate throttle response and a pleasing engine sound. The transmission excelled in gear selection, and the brake pedal provided a firm, smooth stopping experience. The RDX's handling inspired confidence, with well-managed body roll and adaptive dampers on the Platinum Elite A-Spec trim. It delivered a sporty yet comfortable ride, smoothing over road imperfections with ease.

The 2022 Kia Carnival excelled in practicality, offering eight-passenger seating with a versatile second-row bench. The middle seat could slide forward, fold flat, or be removed for added flexibility. The SX trim featured luxurious VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and Ottoman-style leg rests. However, these seats couldn't be removed or folded flat, limiting cargo space. The third-row seat provided ample comfort for adults, and the rear cargo area offered 1,139 litres of space, expandable to 4,110 litres with seat removal. The Carnival's smart hands-free power-sliding doors and liftgate added convenience, though they could open unintentionally.

The 2023 Acura RDX offered generous front-seat space with power adjustments and heated and ventilated seats. The rear seats accommodated average-sized adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find headroom limited. The panoramic sunroof enhanced the cabin's sense of space. Cargo capacity was 835 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,668 litres with the seats folded. The RDX featured a deep bin under the cargo floor with a drain plug, ideal for wet gear. Front passengers had ample storage options, though the centre stack's design limited space efficiency.

The 2022 Kia Carnival's technology suite varied by trim. The LX trim featured analog gauges, an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims, starting with EX+, offered a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system with HD Radio, SiriusXM, voice recognition, and UVO Link connected services. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-speaker Bose audio system were available on SX trim. The tech was generally intuitive, though a comprehensive quick reference guide was recommended for setup.

The 2023 Acura RDX's infotainment system relied on a touchpad controller, which proved challenging to use, especially while driving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto improved the experience, allowing for easier navigation. The system featured sharp graphics and quick responses but was considered one of the least user-friendly interfaces. Standard tech included Bluetooth, SiriusXM, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 16-speaker ELS Studio audio system with excellent sound quality.

The 2022 Kia Carnival boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure assistance, and rear parking sensors. Higher trims added front parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The Carnival received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable at the time of review.

The 2023 Acura RDX earned top safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The Platinum Elite A-Spec package added a surround-view camera system and a head-up display. The RDX's safety systems performed well, with smooth adaptive cruise control and effective lane-keep assist.