2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2022 Kia Carnival

The 2022 Kia Carnival presented a fresh design for the model year, with each version showcasing distinct elements. 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 luxurious VIP Lounge Seats. The Carnival's SUV-inspired styling included skid plates, a floating roof design, and roof rails, giving it a robust appearance. Despite visible sliding door tracks, Kia cleverly integrated them with character lines, making the Carnival a standout in its segment with its sharp, angular design.

In contrast, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic rugged aesthetic with a boxy, no-nonsense design. Available in two-door and four-door models, the Wrangler allowed for door removal and featured a fold-down windshield for an open-air experience. The classic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and exterior hood latches added to its timeless appeal. The Wrangler introduced new paint colours like "Reign" and "Earl," adding a splash of personality. Inside, the Wrangler focused on practicality with easy-to-clean materials and straightforward controls, though it lacked some modern comforts like ambient lighting or massaging seats.

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. It offered front-wheel drive and had a towing capacity of 1,587.5 kilograms. The engine provided smooth acceleration, and the transmission was generally unobtrusive, though Smart mode occasionally delayed downshifts. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with a tested average of 10.8 L/100 km. The Carnival handled well, with a flat cornering stance, though it could feel stiff over uneven surfaces.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler offered a range of engine options, including a standard Pentastar V6 with 285 horsepower, a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre Ecodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower. The Rubicon 392 featured a powerful 6.4-litre V8 with 470 horsepower. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid provided an electrified option with a 35-kilometre electric range. The Wrangler excelled off-road with solid axles and optional differential lockers, but the 392 model had issues with brakes and steering on-road. The Xtreme Recon package enhanced its off-road capabilities with a 58:1 crawl ratio.

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 and a rear sunroof. The Carnival provided ample cargo space, 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 be inadvertently activated.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's interior was functional but limited in storage space. The rear seat was tight, and the small rear doors made access challenging. Cargo space was 2,050 litres with seats folded. The Wrangler offered various top options for open-air driving, including the Sky One-Touch power soft top. Charging points were plentiful, with USB ports and a 115-volt outlet available.

The 2022 Kia Carnival featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the LX trim, while higher trims offered a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system with navigation and a Bose audio system. The EX+ and SX trims included a digital instrument cluster and advanced connected services. The technology was user-friendly, though a comprehensive guide was recommended for setup.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler came with a 7-inch touchscreen running Uconnect, with an 8.4-inch option available. The system included off-road pages and connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While not overly tech-heavy, the Wrangler offered practical features like a forward-facing camera and auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories.

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

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler's safety features were limited, with standard rearview camera and stability control. Advanced features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control were optional. The Wrangler received mixed safety ratings, with some trims scoring poorly in headlight performance.