One of the most exciting minivans of 2022 is the Kia Carnival. Although it sits in the minivan class, it looks pretty different from standard models. On top of using an SUV-like design, Kia places it in its own category, the Multi-Purpose Vehicle. A few trim levels are available at different prices, and each is reasonably well-equipped. What are the 2022 Kia Carnival trim levels?

2022 Kia Carnival LX base model

Firstly, the cheapest version of the Kia Carnival is the LX base model. Starting at $33,635, it’s surprisingly affordable for a well-equipped minivan. According to Edmunds, every version comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and front-wheel drive. In addition, LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, power-sliding rear doors, and seven-passenger seating with second-row captain’s chairs are standard.

Next, proximity entry, push-button ignition, an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, seven USB ports, and a six-speaker stereo are also standard. Are you surprised by all these features for the base model? There are also a few driver aids for safety and assistance that come with the Carnival LX. They are safe exit assist, rear occupant alert, blind-spot monitor, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, driver attention warning, and forward collision mitigation.

The most popular Kia Carnival trim

One step up from the base model is the LXS trim, which Edmunds calls the most popular model. Starting at $35,635, what makes consumers like this version of the 2022 Kia Carnival more than the cheaper base trim? Mostly, it’s the same thing as the LX base model. However, the LXS variant adds the LX Seat package, which includes much more value for the price.

Most importantly, it adds a second-row bench seat, which means the Carnival LXS seats eight people. This upgrade is vital for large families looking to haul passengers and cargo frequently. Moreover, the LXS model also gains a leather-wrapped steering wheel, simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. On top of fitting an extra passenger, the Carnival LXS brings the minivan equivalent into modernity with these extras.

2022 Kia Carnival EX reaches $40,000

For $39,135, the Carnival EX comes with even more features. It doesn’t do anything game-changing like the additional seat included with LXS models. Therefore, it’s the first step into luxury before the more expensive trims. EX models have 19-inch wheels, an eight-speaker stereo, three-zone automatic climate control, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen to start.

Next, more exciting features like a hands-free power tailgate, navigation, and a wireless smartphone charging station take the Carnival toward luxury. Finally, safety and driver aids are enhanced with a rear cabin intercom, a rear camera monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, and an upgraded forward collision mitigation system.

Is a fully-loaded Kia Carnival worth the price?

If you’re buying a 2022 Kia Carnival SX or SX Prestige, you’re going for it all. Moreover, all the bells and whistles are included for $47,635. However, the slightly less-equipped SX model is only $42,635, which is quite a jump in price.

Buying the SX model lands you with LED foglights, power-folding side mirrors, 19-inch black-painted wheels, roof rails, ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, a rear entertainment system, a surround-view monitor, and parking collision avoidance assist. With all of these features, how can the SX Prestige get any better?

If you’re interested in the range-topping 2022 Kia Carnival SX Prestige, get ready to spend, spend, spend. The top-of-the-line minivan costs $47,635, but the automaker does well to add value. In addition to most features from lower trims, SX Prestige models have a heated steering wheel, a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 12-speaker premium stereo system, LED interior lighting, leather upholstery, second-row reclining lounge-style captain’s chairs with heating and ventilation, dual sunroofs, and blind-spot monitor.

2022 Kia Carnival trims

In conclusion, the 2022 Kia Carnival trims are LX, LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The trim levels are value-packed from bottom to top for an affordable minivan. Surprisingly cheap, the base trim comes with the same V6 engine as all other models. Buying the range-topping Carnivals will land you with every feature you can think of. Does your family require a rear entertainment system and ventilated rear captain’s chairs?