2023 Kia Carnival vs 2024 Kia EV9

The 2023 Kia Carnival presented a unique blend of style and functionality, setting itself apart from the typical minivan. It featured a distinctive design with high-tech front and rear lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim, all contributing to its upscale image. The SX trim, in particular, showcased dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, adding a touch of sophistication to the interior. The dual power sunroofs provided ample natural light, while the interior materials ensured a quality feel. Despite its stylish appearance, the Carnival maintained a practical approach with its robust transmission shifter and comfortable seating arrangements.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9 introduced a bold new design for Kia's electric vehicles, with a blockier exterior reminiscent of digital clock numbers. Its standout feature was the "Star Map" daytime running lights, which outlined the new "Digital Tiger Face." The EV9's lighting signature was further enhanced by the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille available on the top Land trim. The vehicle's design was both futuristic and distinctly Kia, with octagonal wheel arches and a sharply angled rear window. The EV9's exterior was a testament to Kia's commitment to innovation and modernity in the SUV segment.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered a towing capacity of up to 1,587 kilograms. The Carnival's fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, although our test vehicle averaged 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres. Despite lacking all-wheel drive and a hybrid powertrain, the Carnival's V6 engine provided ample power, and the transmission operated smoothly. However, the brakes showed signs of fading during a mountain descent, although this was a one-time occurrence. The Carnival offered a firm, sporty ride quality, with a softer ride when fully loaded.

The 2024 Kia EV9, on the other hand, offered a range of powertrain options. The base Light trim featured a single motor with 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing an electric range of 370 kilometres. The Wind model, with a larger 99.8-kWh battery, offered a range of 489 kilometres but reduced horsepower to 201. The top Land trim, with all-wheel drive and dual motors, delivered 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 451 kilometres. The EV9's power delivery was smooth and refined, with good handling and minimal body roll. Its regenerative braking system was adjustable, allowing for a natural driving experience. The EV9 also featured fast charging capability, with the ability to charge from 10 to 80 percent in 25 minutes on a high-speed DC fast charger.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a unique driving experience, with a lower driving position and an SUV-like centre console. It featured three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX trim. The Carnival's interior included a three-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The SX trim's VIP Lounge Seats provided a luxurious experience but limited cargo space to 2,460 litres. The third-row seat was spacious, with adequate legroom and USB ports. The Carnival offered 1,139 litres of cargo space behind the third row, with a maximum cargo volume of 4,110 litres when the second-row seats were removed.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering ample headroom and legroom. It could seat up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. The EV9 provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 1,231 litres with the third row folded and 2,313 litres with only the front-row seats in place. The EV9's interior featured a "floating" centre console, with a wireless charging pad and a large open compartment for storage. Second-row passengers in GT-Line trims enjoyed additional storage options, including a large drawer and tray table.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a visually impressive experience. The digital instrumentation changed its appearance based on the time of day, providing a delightful surprise-and-delight feature. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a three-year subscription to Kia Connect 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 2024 Kia EV9 took technology to the next level with its three-screen curved display. It featured a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. The EV9 offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a wireless charging pad. Higher trims included a 14-speaker Meridian Premium Audio sound system and a head-up display. The EV9's connectedness was a standout feature, with over-the-air updates and the ability to purchase additional features from the Kia Connect store. This "future-proofing" approach allowed for further customization and upgrades over time.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Carnival also featured a rear-seat reminder system, adaptive cruise control, and a Safe Exit Assist system. Higher trims added a surround-view camera and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly noteworthy, providing accurate and smooth assistance. The Carnival received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, although the standard headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems as standard. It included adaptive cruise control with navigation-based capabilities, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, and forward collision avoidance. The Blind-spot View Monitor was available on higher trims. The EV9 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but it received the highest rating from Euro NCAP.