2022 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Nissan Pathfinder

With the all-new 2022 Carnival, Kia is trying something different. By blending crossover SUV design with sensational technology and genuine VIP passenger seating, Kia hopes the Carnival can carve a bigger slice of the small minivan pie.

Available in LX, LX+, EX, EX+, and SX trim levels, the 2022 Kia Carnival replaces the Kia Sedona in the automaker’s lineup. Carnival MSRP ranges from $34,795 to $48,595, not including the destination charge of $1,850.

Our SX test vehicle had extra-cost Storm Blue paint and accessory floor and cargo mats. Its pricing comes to $51,275, including destination charges (Canadian, estimated).

Every car shopper out there has a hierarchy of needs. They put some needs above other needs. Whether you are looking for the best fuel economy, the most cargo space, or the newest tech and safety features, certain vehicles excel in some areas or fall behind in others. The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder does not stand out courtesy of any one particular characteristic, but much like the people shopping for it, the Pathfinder is a combination of attributes in one vehicle.

For the 2023 model year, Nissan has introduced the Rock Creek edition. It’s a more rugged version of the Pathfinder. That’s a bit ironic because, like many entrants in this family-hauling segment, the Pathfinder started out decades ago as tough, truck-based SUVs. So while the Pathfinder has evolved into a more comfortable vehicle, the Rock Creek appears to be an attempt to capture the spirit of the early Nissan SUVs. So, how does the Pathfinder stack up within the popular and hotly contested midsize SUV segment? And does the Rock Creek warrant attention as an off-road vehicle?