2022 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Kia Carnival, a fresh addition to the market, showcased a distinctive design that set it apart from its competitors. Each trim level offered unique styling elements, with the LX and LX+ featuring a standard black grille and 17-inch aluminum wheels. The EX trim elevated the aesthetic with a mirrored grid-pattern grille, 19-inch machined-finish wheels, and simulated leather upholstery. The SX trim added black wheels, textured metal dashboard trim, and luxurious real leather, along with the standout VIP Lounge Seats. The Carnival's SUV-inspired design included features like simulated 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 interior continued the SUV theme, with a dashboard and seating arrangement that exuded an upscale feel, even in the base trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from Volvo's past boxy designs, presenting a purposeful yet understated look. Its front end was solid and assertive, complemented by the iconic "Thor’s Hammer" headlights. The XC90's dimensions retained a rectilinear shape, but it was far from the utilitarian designs of the past. The Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels and a sophisticated Platinum Grey paint with brown undertones, adding depth to its appearance. Inside, the XC90 boasted an elegant design with two-tone leather steering, metal speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior was adorned with wood deco inlays, creating a clean and natural ambiance. However, the lack of physical controls and limited storage space were notable drawbacks in the otherwise refined cabin.

The 2022 Kia Carnival was powered by a new 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. While it lacked all-wheel drive and electrified options, it offered a towing capacity of 1,587.5 kilograms. The V6 engine provided smooth and effortless acceleration, with the automatic transmission operating seamlessly. The Carnival featured Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with Smart mode being the preferred choice despite occasional delayed downshifts. Fuel efficiency was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with real-world testing averaging 10.8 L/100 km. The Carnival's dynamic performance was characterized by a flat cornering stance and athletic feel, though it could be stiff over uneven surfaces.

For the 2023 Volvo XC90, Volvo introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid version of the previous powertrain, offering 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and enhanced smoothness, though it didn't match the fuel economy of full hybrids. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle's insulation minimized road and wind noise, while the brakes provided a confident pedal feel. The XC90's simplicity in driving dynamics, with limited customizable modes, appealed to those seeking straightforward operation.

The 2022 Kia Carnival excelled in practicality, offering eight-passenger seating with versatile second-row configurations. The SX trim featured VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and Ottoman-style leg rests, though they limited cargo space. The Carnival's rear cargo area was spacious, with 1,139 litres of volume 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 Carnival's interior design, while SUV-inspired, limited storage space compared to competitors.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was characterized by Scandinavian minimalism, resulting in limited cubby space for smaller items. The second row offered comfort and space, but accessing the third row was challenging. With the third row in place, the XC90 provided 356 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,856 litres with all rear seats folded. While the XC90 drove like a smaller vehicle, its overall size was smaller than typical three-row SUVs, impacting interior space.

The 2022 Kia Carnival's technology varied by trim, with the LX featuring an 8-inch touchscreen and the EX+ and SX offering a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system. The latter included HD Radio, SiriusXM, voice recognition, and UVO Link connected services. The SX trim added a 12-speaker Bose audio system, though it lacked the depth of previous Harman Kardon systems. The Carnival's tech was generally intuitive, but a comprehensive guide was recommended for setup.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertically positioned touchscreen running Google OS, integrating Android Auto and Google Assistant. The system offered natural-language recognition and compatibility with Google Home devices. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for key functions could be frustrating, and more physical controls were desired. Keyless entry was standard, with a head-up display available as an option.

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. The EX trim added front parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Carnival's ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist enhanced safety for families. The IIHS awarded the Carnival a Top Safety Pick rating.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology provided advanced driver support, maintaining distance and speed in various conditions.