2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner retained its rugged, adventure-ready design, reminiscent of its 1980s SUV roots. Unlike many modern SUVs that have shifted to car-based platforms, the 4Runner maintained its connection to the Toyota Tacoma pickup, offering a high ride height, boxy proportions, and a sharply angled front bumper for tackling obstacles. Inside, the 4Runner's design was functional, though it showed its age with a dash layout reminiscent of the late 2000s. In Canada, the 4Runner was available in Trail and SR5 models, with various TRD and Limited package configurations. Standard features included an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Toyota Safety Sense P driver assistance features.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival stood out with its distinctive style and upscale image, making it a compelling choice in the minivan segment. The Carnival's design featured high-tech front and rear lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim, giving it an attractive appearance. Inside, the Carnival SX trim boasted dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality interior materials. The Carnival's seating options included VIP Lounge Seats in the SX trim, offering heated, ventilated, and fully reclining features, though they limited maximum cargo volume. The Carnival's interior was designed to provide comfort and convenience, with features like a three-zone automatic climate control system and a smart power liftgate.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, delivered power to the standard 4WD system. While the V6 engine was reliable, it felt underwhelming in most driving situations, except when off-road, where it excelled. The 4Runner's ride was harsh and cumbersome on paved roads, with noticeable body roll, but it shone on trails, thanks to features like Crawl Control and a locking differential. The 4Runner had a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds), which was more than most car-based crossovers.

The 2023 Kia Carnival featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Carnival's powertrain provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers, and offered driving modes like Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport. However, the Carnival lacked AWD and a hybrid powertrain, which could have improved its performance in wet or winter conditions. The Carnival's brakes performed well in most situations, though they experienced fade during a mountain descent. The minivan offered a firm, sporty ride quality, with a softer ride when fully loaded. Overall, the Carnival was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey felt more athletic.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner offered a maximum cargo capacity of 2,540 litres in the two-row version, with 1,337 litres of space behind the second row. The three-row model reduced maximum cargo space to 2,514 litres, with 1,311 litres behind the second row and 254 litres behind the rear seats. The 4Runner lacked a power rear liftgate but featured a power-open/close rear window for easy access. While the 4Runner's cabin was functional, it could have been more efficient in terms of space utilization.

The 2023 Kia Carnival provided a unique driving experience, with a lower driving position and SUV-like centre console arrangement. The Carnival offered three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX trim. The minivan's interior featured a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Carnival's VIP Lounge Seats in the SX trim limited maximum cargo volume to 2,460 litres, but they offered luxurious comfort for road trips. The Carnival's third-row seat was spacious, with USB ports and cupholders. The smart power liftgate revealed 1,139 litres of cargo volume behind the third row, and the third-row seats could be tumbled into a storage well to expand cargo space. Without the VIP Lounge Seats, the Carnival offered a maximum cargo space of 4,110 litres.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and multiple USB ports. While the system was straightforward and relied on tactile controls, it lacked advanced features like a head-up display. The 4Runner's infotainment system covered the basics but was not as advanced as some competitors.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a premium experience similar to a Mercedes-Benz. The digital instrumentation impressed with its lush graphics and changing appearance based on the time of day. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a three-year subscription to Kia Connect connected services. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was mediocre. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera.

The 2022 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, including forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane-departure warning. The 4Runner earned four out of five stars for frontal and side-impact testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration but received three stars for rollover testing. It was backed by a five-year/100,000-kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems, with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist standard on all trims. 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 trim. The Carnival earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, though its standard headlights received a Poor rating.