2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Subaru Ascent

The 2022 Subaru Ascent, particularly in its new Onyx Edition trim, embraced the trend of blacking out shiny exterior trim, offering a sporty appearance that was previously absent. This edition featured blacked-out exterior trim and badges, black 20-inch aluminum wheels, a unique grille design, and special interior trim. The interior was wrapped in water-repellant StarTex synthetic leather, available only in a grey two-tone scheme with light grey stitching, which was a refreshing change from the typical black interiors. However, the StarTex material had a tendency to trap sweat, making ventilated seats a desirable feature, though they were only available on the Ascent Premier.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival stood out with its distinctive style and upscale image, making it a compelling choice in the minivan category. The Carnival SX trim, with its high-tech front and rear lighting, intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim, was particularly attractive. Inside, the dual instrumentation and infotainment screens added sophistication, while the dual power sunroofs provided ample natural light. The interior materials were of high quality, preventing the minivan from feeling cheap, and the robust transmission shifter added a sense of quality. However, the black alloy wheels were considered unimaginative.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. The Ascent's fuel consumption was rated at 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our testing averaging 11.5 L/100 km. The CVT was praised for its eight programmed ratios and manual shift control, allowing for brisk acceleration and commendable passing power. The Ascent's towing capacity was up to 2,270 kilograms, and its X-Mode off-road traction control system, hill descent control, and 22 centimetres of ground clearance provided off-roading capability. However, the lane-keeping and lane-centring assistance technologies were criticized for their uncertain feel.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, on the other hand, was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It had a fuel consumption rating of 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with our test averaging 11.1 L/100 km. The Carnival's towing capacity was 1,587 kilograms. While AWD was unavailable, the V6 engine provided ample power, and the transmission operated flawlessly. The Carnival's brakes, however, showed signs of fading during a mountain descent. Despite this, the Carnival offered a firm, sporty ride quality, with a softer ride when fully loaded. The Carnival was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey was noted to be more athletic.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent could accommodate up to eight people, though the third row was best suited for children. The Ascent offered a comfortable driving position and was equipped for winter weather with features like heated front seats and a wiper de-icer. The second-row seats were easy to load, and the available panoramic sunroof extended over them. The Ascent provided 458 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,193 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,061 litres with both rows folded.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, with its SUV-like driving position and centre console, offered a unique minivan experience. It featured three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX trim. The Carnival SX included heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The VIP Lounge Seats in the SX trim were luxurious but limited cargo space to 2,460 litres. Without these seats, the Carnival offered a maximum cargo space of 4,110 litres. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the Carnival provided 1,139 litres of cargo space behind it.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, and satellite radio. The Touring trim added an 8-inch display with Starlink connected services. The voice recognition technology needed improvement, and the Onyx Edition's standard stereo speakers lacked sonic quality. Additional technology features were reserved for the Premier trim.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a Mercedes-Benz-like presentation. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Kia Connect connected services. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was deemed mediocre. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera.

The 2022 Subaru Ascent received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in rollover resistance. It came with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, though it had limitations in direct sunlight and lacked refinement in adaptive cruise control and lane-centring technology. Additional safety features included steering responsive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a range of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems, with features added as you moved up the trim levels. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Carnival's rear-seat reminder system used ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, and adaptive cruise control and Safe Exit Assist were standard from the EX grade. The Highway Driving Assist technology was praised for its accuracy and smooth operation. The IIHS named the Carnival a Top Safety Pick, though the standard headlights received a Poor rating.