The Sedona minivan has a new name for 2022: the Kia Carnival. And with plenty of cargo room, advanced safety features, and a comfortable cabin, it’s the perfect vehicle for road trips.
The days of minivan domination are long over as more consumers opt for SUVs. That’s not to say the demand for minivans is completely gone, but there are far fewer models on the road.
The 2022 Kia Carnival is a solid choice that comes with plenty of bells and whistles to keep everyone happy. It’s quickly becoming a leader in its class and is a perfect hauler for leisurely road trips.
The 2022 Kia Carnival is great for road trips
2022 Kia Carnival interior | Kia
Drivers will appreciate the Kia Carnival’s EPA-estimated gas mileage of 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Being able to travel almost 420 miles without stopping to refuel is a game-changer on long road trips.
When it comes to comfort, the back seat is second to none. The 2022 Kia Carnival has adjustable second-row seats, power sliding doors for easy access to the third row, rear air-conditioning with roof-mounted controls, and ample USB ports. For passengers who tire of the scenery and want to nap, the heated “VIP Lounge Seats” can fully recline. The extended leg rests are a nice touch too.
The Carnival’s impressive tech features include two 115-volt power inverters and eight charging outlets conveniently placed throughout the spacious cabin. Standard driver assistance features include lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
A 4.2-inch trip display informs all riders of the distance left to travel, so the driver no longer has to hear the nagging question, “How much farther?” Plus, the SX trim keeps passengers distracted with a dual-screen entertainment system that securely sits on the headrests for easy viewing.
As MotorBiscuit previously reported, the “onboard entertainment system is a huge part of why the Kia Carnival is the best road trip minivan on the market.”
The Kia Carnival provides a comfortable ride at an affordable price
Tested: 2022 @Kia Carnival fancies up the minivan: https://t.co/64Zy3BWbqZ pic.twitter.com/DJ4ruUCQjq
— Car and Driver (@CARandDRIVER) May 3, 2021
The driver can control the climate, radio stations, and multimedia channels from the easily accessible standard 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system. And a rear-facing interior camera and “Passenger Talk” intercom keep all passengers in view to stop sibling squabbles before they begin.
In addition, drivers will appreciate the 2022 Kia Carnival’s naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. This sturdy ride can zoom from 0 to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds flat. That’s faster than other minivans on the market.
Starting prices span from $33,555 for the base-model LX to around $48,000 for the range-topping SX Prestige. Considering other brands’ fully loaded minivans surpass $50,000, consumers looking for a luxurious ride with lots of room for the family will surely like the 2022 Kia Carnival’s price.
A look at rival minivans
With good fuel economy, stylish design features, and unsurpassed cabin comfort, the newly branded Kia Carnival minivan is a fierce competitor in a shrinking segment. Models such as the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Pacifica lead the pack, but the Carnival could easily pull out in front with its road trip–worthy features.
The Odyssey continues to win industry awards, ranking among the best family minivans, but the Carnival isn’t far behind. Car and Driver reviewers gave both vehicles a 9 out of 10, adding they’re “impressed with the Carnival’s well-balanced ride and handling.”
And after returning from a 1,000-mile road trip, The Drive said the 2022 Kia Carnival “revealed itself to be the perfect home away from home on a road trip.”
Keyword: Why the Kia Carnival Is Great for Long Trips