2023 Kia Carnival vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Kia Carnival presented a unique blend of style and functionality, setting itself apart from the typical minivan. Imagining an off-road or overlanding package for the Carnival was intriguing, but for the time being, it relied on its distinctive design, upscale interior, and advanced technology to stand out. The SX trim, with its Storm Blue paint, showcased a sophisticated image with high-tech lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim. Despite the stylish exterior, the black alloy wheels were considered uninspired. Inside, the Carnival SX featured dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality materials that elevated the minivan's interior ambiance.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, offered a luxury SUV experience with a more conservative design. The TX's styling was toned down compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a subtler look. The test model's 22-inch wheels enhanced its appearance, and the TX 350 Executive package added a touch of elegance. The interior, while dark with the Peppercorn colour scheme, provided a luxurious feel with premium materials. The TX's cabin was spacious, and the panoramic glass sunroof added an airy atmosphere. Despite the lack of a massage function in the front seats, the TX's interior comfort and quality were fitting for a Lexus badge.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque through a front-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of up to 1,587 kilograms and featured driving modes such as Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport. Despite its lack of all-wheel drive or a hybrid powertrain, the Carnival's V6 engine provided ample power, even with a full load of passengers. However, the brakes showed signs of fading during a mountain descent, though they performed well in other driving conditions. The Carnival's ride quality was firm yet sporty, with a softer feel when fully loaded, although third-row passengers experienced a bouncy ride on highway transitions.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately eight seconds, with a fuel economy rating of 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. During testing, the TX 350 averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The TX's suspension provided a balanced ride, offering both comfort and road surface feedback. The steering was accurate, and the interior remained quiet on the highway. The brake pedal, though soft, was easy to modulate, ensuring smooth stops. Overall, the TX's performance was adequate for typical driving situations, though the engine note was somewhat grating.

The 2023 Kia Carnival defied typical minivan conventions with its SUV-like driving position and centre console layout. It offered three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX trim. The Carnival SX featured a three-zone automatic 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 third-row seat was spacious enough for adults, and the smart power liftgate revealed 1,139 litres of cargo volume behind it. Removing the second-row seats expanded cargo space to 4,110 litres, surpassing even the Chevrolet Suburban.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, with adequate legroom and a high seating position. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded. With the second-row seats down, the TX offered 2,746 litres of cargo space. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering a visually appealing and user-friendly interface. The digital instrumentation impressed with its dynamic graphics, while the infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. However, the 12-speaker Bose audio system was considered mediocre. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and a passenger view camera, enhancing convenience and communication within the vehicle.

The 2024 Lexus TX boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a Drive Connect subscription, offered cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were seamlessly integrated. The TX also provided free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, along with a three-year Remote Connect subscription. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system delivered impressive sound quality, making it a worthwhile upgrade for audiophiles.

The 2023 Kia Carnival came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The rear-seat reminder system used ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, alerting the owner if a child or pet was left inside. The Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly noteworthy, providing smooth and accurate assistance on highways. The Carnival earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though its standard headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance, though it was not entirely transparent in operation. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways. Overall, the LSS+ 3.0 proved effective, though the TX's response to vehicles cutting in was overly cautious.