2023 Kia Carnival vs 2024 Toyota Sienna

The 2023 Kia Carnival presented a unique blend of style and technology, setting it apart from the typical minivan. While it lacked an off-road package, its distinctive design, upscale image, and advanced features like dual 12.3-inch screens and a camera-based Blind-Spot View Monitor system made it stand out. The SX Prestige trim, with its Astra Blue paint and VIP Lounge Seats, offered a luxurious feel, although the black alloy wheels were less impressive. Inside, the Carnival's sophisticated dashboard and quality materials provided a premium experience, though some controls were inconveniently placed.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Sienna maintained its "swagger wagon" vibe with sleek fascias and vibrant color options. The XSE trim added sporty elements like a black metallic mesh grille and 20-inch dark wheels. The Woodland Edition catered to those seeking a bit more off-road capability. Inside, the Sienna offered practical features like a lower storage pass-through and powered side doors. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom, though their non-removable nature limited cargo space. The third row was accessible and comfortable, with generous legroom when the second row was adjusted.

The 2023 Kia Carnival was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It offered a satisfying driving experience with its firm, sporty ride and multiple driving modes. However, it lacked all-wheel drive and a hybrid option, which could have improved its fuel economy and traction in adverse conditions. The brakes performed well in most situations, though they faded during a mountain descent. Overall, the Carnival was enjoyable to drive, though not as athletic as the Honda Odyssey.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, on the other hand, featured a hybrid powertrain with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, producing a total of 245 horsepower. While it offered smooth acceleration, the Sienna felt sluggish, especially when merging or climbing hills. The CVT contributed to a less engaging driving experience, though the minivan was pleasant for city driving. The brakes were occasionally grabby, but the steering was light and accurate. The Sienna's hybrid system provided decent fuel efficiency, though it lacked the power of its V6 competitors.

The 2023 Kia Carnival's interior was designed with an SUV-like feel, featuring a lower driving position and a center console similar to those found in SUVs. It offered three types of upholstery, with the SX Prestige trim featuring genuine leather. The Carnival's smart sliding doors and VIP Lounge Seats added convenience and comfort, though the latter limited cargo space. The third row was spacious, and the cargo area provided ample storage, with a smart power liftgate and a deep well for additional capacity.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna excelled in practicality, with features like a lower storage pass-through and powered side doors. The second-row captain's chairs offered generous legroom, though their non-removable nature limited cargo space. The third row was accessible and comfortable, with ample legroom when the second row was adjusted. The Sienna's tri-zone climate control and additional zone for the front passenger ensured comfort for all occupants. The rear liftgate revealed 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 101 cubes with the third row stowed.

The 2023 Kia Carnival impressed with its 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment touchscreens, offering lush graphics and a seamless user experience. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, though the Bose audio system was underwhelming. Additional tech features like Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision enhanced the driving experience. The optional rear-seat entertainment system offered streaming capabilities, though it failed to captivate teenage passengers.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna, however, was equipped with an older infotainment system featuring a nine-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While it included physical buttons for common menus, the backup camera's grainy view was disappointing. The Sienna offered a standard Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an optional JBL stereo system. USB ports and a 1500-watt inverter provided additional convenience, though the rear-seat entertainment system and head-up display were not included in the tester.

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 blind-spot monitoring. The rear-seat reminder system and Safe Exit System added extra layers of safety. The Highway Driving Assist technology was particularly impressive, providing smooth and accurate semi-autonomous driving assistance. The Carnival earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2022, though the NHTSA had not yet tested it.

The 2024 Toyota Sienna featured the Toyota Safety Sense suite, offering lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. While most systems performed well, the lane-keeping assist exhibited some side-to-side movement. The Sienna included numerous airbags and a seat belt reminder for rear passengers. It received high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, though its front crash prevention was rated as "Average."