2023 Kia Carnival EX Review - Does It Really Feel Like An SUV?
The day is FINALLY here - I’m sharing my experience with the 2023 Kia Carnival. As I’m writing this, I just received the news that this car has been sold which I’m feeling a little bummed about. That says something, right?! I’ll be getting a new car to test out which is equally exciting, but before I say goodbye to the Carnival, I want to share my final thoughts!
If you're new—welcome! I wear many hats: a car enthusiast, a mom, and a certified child passenger safety tech. Today, I've got something fun to share—an in-depth tour of the 2023 KIA Carnival EX, which I've recently had the privilege of driving as our family car for the last few months. And believe me, with three kids under five, it's got to meet some high standards!
First Impressions: The Minivan That’s Not Like Other Minivans
When the Carnival was first introduced, replacing the Sedona, KIA ambitiously marketed it as an MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), striving to shed the traditional "minivan" image. And I must admit, they’ve done a stellar job. The car doesn’t just function like a dream—it looks the part too. Someone recently asked me if the Carnival is enough of an “SUV”, and to that I say...it’s close! The Carnival was the first vehicle to have the latest KIA logo and the front end is undeniably sleek.
While the side offers a boxy, yet modern aesthetic, it is reminiscent of the Ford Flex. I do have some reservations about certain design choices (like the hearse-esque vibes on the black Carnival and the door track placements), the overall exterior design is striking.
Aesthetically, it’s a big thumbs up from me, but I'd love to know your thoughts!
Let’s Talk About the Kia Carnival Exterior
No car is without its imperfections. A couple of design choices on the Carnival are not my favorite. The Hearsey vibes, especially on the black version, might not sit well with everyone. I recommend taking a moment to Google the black Carnival, and you might see a slight resemblance to a hearse.
Another element I’d love to see improved is the placement of the door tracks. Modern minivans are moving towards integrating the tracks within the windowsill so it looks more like an SUV. There’s a free design tip for you, Kia!
Let’s Talk Trim Levels:
I’ve been driving the EX which is the mid-tier trim and I’m super impressed with how elevated it feels. I have also seen the base trim for the Kia Carnival and simply put, I was not impressed. Definitely worth it to upgrade your trim level if you’re able to.
However, when I had a chance to explore the higher trim levels, I found it to be a bit overkill with lots of features I found unnecessary for a family vehicle. For the price, I would recommend the EX over the other trim levels.
Kia Carnival Features I Love:
Passenger View
Passenger Talk and Quiet Mode
Apple Carplay
KIA doesn’t skimp on interiors. The Carnival EX offers tech features that cater exceptionally well to families. From the dual yet seamlessly integrated screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, to the Passenger Talk and Quiet Mode (a GREAT feature for parents!), everything seems thoughtfully added.
My personal favorite? The Passenger View, which lets me check on all three of my kids with just a touch. And yes, for those of you who know my love for practicality, the climate control and storage spaces are easy and ample (though I wouldn’t mind a tad more space!).
Kia Carnival Ex Misses:
I don’t love the glossy black trim on the door panels. It shows fingerprints like crazy!
The side panels are not deep enough, in my opinion!
Center console could be bigger
Kia Carnival Sliding Doors
Let's talk about the doors because they slide and this is my first time ever really driving a minivan for any length of time and one thing I guess I didn't realize about the benefit of a sliding door is What surprised me the most was the ease with which my two-and-a-half-year-old could operate the door - a simple press of a button is all it takes. I thought it required handling the door, but this button feature has been a game-changer. The only minor hiccup? Now, George and Hattie argue over who gets to press it. I don't know if it's really easy easier to get them out of the car but I have enjoyed that feature and I feel like I'm not having to pull on the handle as much which of course is better for the vehicle long term.
Additional Amenities I love: Keeping the Family in Mind
Within the Carnival, every feature feels thoughtfully added. Ceiling vents ensure the comfort of both second and third-row passengers. Legroom and headroom are ample, even in the third row, making long drives comfortable for both kids and adults. When it comes to storage, the deep trunk is perfect for family trips, easily accommodating strollers and more.
Let’ Talk Carseat Setup
When it comes to car seats, the Carnival is top-tier. It’s true - the Carnival is available in both a Captain Chair and bench seat option. if you’ve been following me for any length of time, you know how much I prefer a bench seat!
However, in this car, you can remove ANY of the seats in the second row. I am OBSESSED with this feature. I’ve removed the outer seat for easier access to the third row and it’s made buckling my kids a breeze.
We’ve got lower anchors and tether anchors in all the second row seats - major win. In the third row, I’ve got lower anchors in the outward seats and tether anchors across the back. It’s super car seat-friendly which is not a big surprise - but we love to see it.
But why didn’t you install your car seats three across?
Long story short, the roofline in the Carnival is a bit lower than I’m used to, and I couldn’t see out the rear view as well as I wanted to. It felt safer for me personally to put one of my kids in the third row.
Maximizing Space: The Trunk Magic
Minivans and storage space go hand-in-hand, and the Carnival doesn't disappoint. With a deep trunk that can easily accommodate a stroller (like my Mockingbird), groceries, and then some, it's designed for busy moms on the go. And if you need even more room, the third-row seats fold down very easy.
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Final Thoughts: Embracing the Minivan Life
I'm just a couple of weeks into my journey with the 2023 KIA Carnival EX, but so far, the minivan life is treating me well. Stay tuned for more updates, and in the meantime, if you’re contemplating a new family vehicle, give the Carnival a serious look!