Is the 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige Really Worth Nearly $50K?
Kia’s reputation for producing reliable and feature-packed vehicles extends to its minivan-turned-MPV, the Kia Carnival. Despite minivans falling out of favor with most consumers who have turned to SUVs, they seem to be making a comeback in recent years.
Building on the success of its predecessor, the previous generation Sedona, the 2024 Carnival introduces a refreshed design and enhanced features. So, let’s delve into whether the 2024 Kia Carnival, specifically the SX Prestige trim, offers a compelling car shopping option. We’ll explore its specifications, features, and reviews and consider its competition in the market.
Specs and features of the 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige
With a starting MSRP of $47,665, the 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige boasts a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering an impressive 290 horsepower. This power ensures smooth driving experiences in urban settings and long journeys. All trims have an eight-speed automatic transmission, optimizing fuel efficiency and providing seamless gear shifts. Fuel economy ratings from the EPA for the Carnival are 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined.
Inside the cabin, the SX Prestige offers a spacious and comfortable environment, accommodating up to eight passengers and up to 145.1 cubic feet of cargo space. The upscale trim comes with leather upholstery and can be ordered with reclining second-row seats that have pop-up footrests.
While a single 8.0-inch infotainment screen is standard, dual 12.3-inch screens that span two-thirds of the Carnival’s dashboard are available, with one functioning as a digital gauge display and the other as infotainment. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features, and the Carnival cabin has up to nine USB ports. A rear-seat entertainment system is available beginning with the SX trim, although a 12-speaker Bose radio is only available on the top-spec SX Prestige trim.
Safety is a top priority in the SX Prestige trim, equipped with Kia’s comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Kia offers many standard driver-assistance features, including lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and blind-spot monitoring.
Reviews of the 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige
Early reviews of the 2024 Kia Carnival have lauded its overall package, particularly emphasizing the SX Prestige trim’s blend of luxury and practicality. Car and Driver highlight the SX Prestige’s extensive feature list, comfortable ride quality, and spacious interior. The site also notes that the advanced safety features and user-friendly technology make it an excellent choice for families.
However, in the end, the outlet recommends the EX. The reviewers noted that “The Carnival is offered in four trim levels ranging from the value-oriented LX to the deluxe SX Prestige, but the EX represents the sweet spot between features and price. The EX trim comes with several convenience features that help to justify the cost of upgrading, including a power-operated rear liftgate, an in-cabin intercom, and a voice-control system that allows rear-seat passengers to provide commands to the Carnival’s infotainment system.”
The MotorTrend magazine also praises the Carnival for its impressive interior space, refined ride, and powerful engine. The reviewers appreciated the abundance of advanced safety features and high-quality materials throughout the vehicle. However, for the price, the site also recommends mid-level models due to the steep pricing of the SX Prestige.
Competitors of the Carnival MPV
The 2024 Kia Carnival faces stiff competition in a market with an increasing number of alternatives. Established minivans like the Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, and Honda Odyssey have long dominated the segment. In a comparison by industry experts at The Car Connection, the Carnival holds its ground with its impressive features, spaciousness, and contemporary design. However, one of the few drawbacks of the Carnival is that it doesn’t offer AWD as its competition does.
The 2024 Kia Carnival, especially in the upscale SX Prestige trim, presents an enticing option for those seeking a luxurious and versatile multi-purpose vehicle. Its powerful engine, extensive features, and advanced safety technologies offer exceptional value for families searching for a practical vehicle. Positive reviews from MotorTrend and Car and Driver further validate its appeal, recommending the EX trim for its value and features. While it does have some established competitors, Carnival’s overall package positions it as a compelling contender in the MPV and minivan segments.
