2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic enhancements from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented appearance with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier bumpers. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury appeal with high-quality materials, though the centre stack felt dated. The F Sport models featured specific badging and sporty trim, but the seats were less comfortable, lacking adequate lumbar support and adjustability.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, on the other hand, distinguished itself with a unique style and upscale image, making it stand out in the minivan category. The Carnival SX trim, with its Storm Blue paint and intricate grille, was particularly attractive. Inside, the Carnival featured dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, adding sophistication to the cabin. The SX trim offered dual power sunroofs and quality interior materials, though the genuine leather upholstery felt stiff. The Carnival's design cleverly blended SUV-like elements, such as a visible hood and lower driving position, with minivan practicality. The VIP Lounge Seats in the SX trim provided luxury but limited cargo space and accessibility to the third row.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid model offered a combined output of 308 hp. All RX models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of engine growl and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and additional drive modes, but the differences in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, absorbing road imperfections and providing a serene driving experience. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was rated at 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid improved efficiency to 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 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. The Carnival's front-wheel-drive setup provided a towing capacity of 1,587 kg. While lacking all-wheel drive and a hybrid option, the Carnival's V6 engine offered ample power, and the transmission operated smoothly. The Carnival's driving modes included Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport, with Sport mode enhancing performance on steep roads. The brakes, however, showed signs of fading during a mountain descent. The Carnival's ride quality was firm and sporty with a single occupant, but softened with a full load. Fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 L/100 km combined, though our test vehicle averaged 11.1 L/100 km.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models, however, had limited cargo space, with only 210 litres available behind the third row. The RX's cargo area expanded to 1,657 litres with the rear seats folded, though they did not fold completely flat. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the high load-in height of the cargo area was a drawback.

The 2023 Kia Carnival provided a spacious and versatile interior, with a maximum cargo capacity of 4,110 litres when the second-row seats were removed. The Carnival's third-row seat offered adequate legroom for adults, and the smart power liftgate revealed 1,139 litres of cargo space behind it. The SX trim's VIP Lounge Seats added luxury but limited cargo volume to 2,460 litres and complicated third-row access. The Carnival's interior featured three-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and multiple USB ports, enhancing comfort and convenience for passengers.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available on higher trims. The infotainment system, though responsive, was hindered by its positioning and the obstructive design of the centre stack. The touchpad control was frustrating to use, and the drive mode selector was often mistaken for an infotainment control knob. Despite these issues, the RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment screens, providing a high-tech and visually appealing interface. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year subscription to Kia Connect services. The Carnival's tech highlights included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was underwhelming, and the voice recognition system was only partially effective without an active Kia Connect subscription.

The 2022 Lexus RX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with standard collision warnings and lane-keeping assist. The Carnival's rear-seat reminder system used ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, and the Safe Exit Assist system warned occupants of approaching vehicles. The EX trim added adaptive cruise control and Junction Turning Detection. The EX+ and SX trims featured a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Carnival's Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly impressive, providing smooth and reliable assistance. The IIHS named the Carnival a Top Safety Pick, though the standard headlights received a Poor rating.