2023 Kia Carnival vs 2022 Toyota Sienna

The 2022 Toyota Sienna stood out in the minivan market by embracing its identity rather than shying away from it. Despite the SUV trend, Toyota continued to innovate with the Sienna, which debuted in 1998 and evolved through several generations. The latest model, launched in 2021, featured a design that attempted to blend SUV aesthetics with minivan functionality. Its assertive profile, with re-engineered door hinges and a macho front end, gave it a distinctive look. Inside, the Sienna offered a spacious and cleverly designed interior, with ample storage and seating options, including available second-row captain’s chairs with ottomans and a third-row bench that folded into the floor.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival aimed to redefine the minivan category by presenting itself as a Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV). The Carnival's design was more SUV-like, with a lower driving position and a centre console reminiscent of an SUV. The SX trim, in particular, exuded an upscale image with its high-tech lighting, intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. Inside, the Carnival featured dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, adding sophistication to the cabin. The SX trim also offered dual power sunroofs and quality interior materials, although the black alloy wheels were less impressive. The Carnival's interior was designed for comfort, with heated and ventilated front seats and a three-zone climate control system.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was equipped with a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 243 horsepower. This setup, paired with an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT), offered smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency. The Sienna's handling was enhanced by the Toyota Next Generation Architecture (TNGA) platform, providing a comfortable and stable ride. Fuel consumption was a highlight, with FWD models achieving 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving and 6.5 on the highway. The AWD option added a separate electric motor for the rear wheels, enhancing traction without complicating the drivetrain.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, on the other hand, featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. While it lacked AWD and hybrid options, the Carnival offered a satisfying driving experience with its firm, sporty ride quality. The V6 engine provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers, and the transmission operated smoothly. However, the Carnival's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The brakes performed well in most situations, though they showed signs of fading during a mountain descent.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna was designed to be a versatile family vehicle, capable of carrying a full 4x8 sheet of plywood with the tailgate closed. Its sliding second row added flexibility for loading cargo, with measurements of 949 litres behind the third row, 2,129 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. The Sienna also offered a 1,585-kilogram towing capacity. Power-operated sliding doors and a rear liftgate added convenience, especially when approaching with hands full.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a unique interior experience, with a design that felt more like an SUV than a minivan. The SX trim featured VIP Lounge Seats in the second row, which were heated, ventilated, and fully reclining. However, these seats limited cargo space to 2,460 litres and made third-row access more challenging. The Carnival's third-row seat provided adequate legroom and included USB ports and cupholders. The smart power liftgate revealed a deep cargo well with 1,139 litres of space, ideal for sports equipment. Removing the second-row seats expanded the cargo area to 4,110 litres, surpassing even the Chevrolet Suburban.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna came equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. While wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was absent, the Sienna included a range of telematics services and audio options, from a six-speaker system to a 12-speaker JBL system. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, featuring an 11.6-inch display and wireless headphones. The Sienna also offered a digital rearview mirror and a Smart Key System on higher trims.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX impressed with its 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, reminiscent of a Mercedes-Benz. The digital instrumentation featured dynamic graphics that changed with the time of day, while the infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year subscription to Kia Connect services. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was underwhelming, and the voice recognition system had limitations.

The 2022 Toyota Sienna received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Sienna also featured 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder system, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with standard forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The rear-seat reminder system used ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, while adaptive cruise control and Safe Exit Assist were standard from the EX trim. The Carnival also included a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor on higher trims. The IIHS named the Carnival a Top Safety Pick, though the standard headlights received a Poor rating.