2023 Kia Carnival vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The windshield wipers were discreetly tucked under the hood, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The test model, finished in Nordic Forest Pearl, showcased one of the two new colour options. Inside, the HR-V featured a refined interior with perforated leather seats in the EX-L trim, offering a comfortable cabin experience. The metal honeycomb grille and touch-sensitive lights added a premium feel, while the improved visibility was a welcome enhancement.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Carnival presented a distinctive style that set it apart from typical minivans. The SX trim, with its Storm Blue paint, exuded an upscale image with high-tech lighting and intricate grille design. The interior boasted dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, adding sophistication. The Carnival's materials were of high quality, and the robust transmission shifter provided a sense of durability. However, the black alloy wheels were less imaginative. The Carnival's interior was spacious, with dual power sunroofs and flashy dashboard trim, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, an improvement over the previous model. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) included a Step-Shift function to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. Drivers could choose from Normal, Snow, ECON, and Sport modes, each adjusting the vehicle's performance to suit different conditions. Despite updates for a quieter cabin, the HR-V remained noisier at higher speeds. The new suspension and widened tracks improved handling, making it enjoyable on mountain roads, though it lacked power compared to competitors with multiple powertrain options.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport driving modes. The Carnival's V6 provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers, and the transmission operated smoothly. However, the brakes showed signs of fading during a mountain descent. The Carnival's ride quality was firm yet comfortable, with a sporty feel when lightly loaded. Despite some wind noise at higher speeds, the Carnival was satisfying to drive, though it lacked the athleticism of the Honda Odyssey.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a centre console featuring a shelf for storage. The fastback design slightly reduced rear-seat headroom, but cargo space remained competitive, with 691 litres behind the rear seats and 1,559 litres with them folded. The HR-V's passenger volume varied slightly across trims, with the EX-L gaining some interior space. The rear seats provided a higher seating position for easier access, and the overall design was ergonomic and practical.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, resembling an SUV more than a minivan, offered three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX trim. The interior featured a three-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The VIP Lounge Seats in the SX trim provided luxury but limited cargo space to 2,460 litres. 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 for additional space. Without the VIP seats, the Carnival offered a maximum cargo space of 4,110 litres.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a tablet-style infotainment display with physical controls for power and volume. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, with wireless versions available on the EX-L. The EX-L also included a 9-inch infotainment display, a wireless charging pad, and an eight-speaker audio system. The HR-V's technology package was user-friendly, with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and various connectivity options.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX boasted 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, reminiscent of luxury brands. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year Kia Connect subscription. Despite the impressive display, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was underwhelming. Additional features like Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera enhanced the Carnival's tech offerings, though the voice recognition system had limitations.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came standard with the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist. New features for 2023 included traffic-sign recognition and traffic jam assist. The HR-V received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, though NHTSA ratings were pending.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist standard across all trims. The EX trim added blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Carnival's Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly noteworthy for its accuracy and reliability. The IIHS awarded the Carnival a Top Safety Pick, though standard headlights received a Poor rating.