By Allyson 
Kia is gearing up to make waves in the Indian automobile market with the launch of two new vehicles, and at the forefront of this list is the new Kia Carnival facelift. This updated version of the popular Carnival is set to be a game-changer for the luxury MPV market, offering a blend of high-tech features, spacious interiors, and a design overhaul that promises to captivate Indian buyers. With the official launch just a few months away, here’s a deep dive into what the new Kia Carnival offers.
Exterior: A Fresh New Look
One of the first things you’ll notice about the new Carnival is its revised exterior design. The facelift brings a bold new front grille, which has ditched the old striped design for a more modern and aggressive format. The camera now sits centrally on the grille, adding to the car’s tech-savvy appeal. Moving to the headlamps, the daytime running LEDs have received a stylish update, while the LED headlamps themselves have grown in size, giving the car a more dominating front profile.
The lower section of the car houses four sensors and a radar plus camera system, forming part of the Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System), making the Carnival one of the safest MPVs on the road.
Side Profile: Designed for Space
The Carnival’s side profile instantly reveals that this is a long car, designed to maximize interior space. Measuring over 5 meters, the car promises ample room for up to seven passengers. The 18-inch alloy wheels enhance its stance, and Kia has ensured that these tires provide top-notch grip for Indian roads, crucial for the SUV-like experience Carnival aims to deliver.
Another feature that stands out is the large mirrors. These come equipped with side cameras, part of the blind view monitoring system, which complements the blind spot detection for improved safety. The sliding doors are electronically controlled, offering ease of access, especially in tight parking spaces, and can be operated with the key.
Rear Design: Tailored for India
At the rear, Kia has incorporated their signature connected tail lamps, a design element seen across their portfolio. The Carnival also gets a shark fin antenna, rearview cameras, and an electric tailgate. This tailgate opens to reveal a spacious boot that can easily accommodate luggage for seven passengers. While globally, the Carnival offers a four-row seating option, the Indian market will receive a three-row variant, still boasting an abundance of space.
Interior: Luxury and Comfort Redefined
Once inside the Carnival, the first impression is that of spaciousness and luxury. The second row is highly adjustable, offering recline and sliding features, ensuring passengers can travel in comfort. However, it’s best suited for two adults as the middle seat can feel cramped. Passengers also get heated seats in the second row, making it a cozy ride even in colder weather.
A notable highlight is the dual sunroof setup, one at the front and one at the back, providing an airy feel to the cabin. The Carnival also offers a slew of tech features, including a Type-C charging port, storage spaces, and an AC controller for the second and third rows.
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Third Row: Space for All
Unlike many seven-seater SUVs where the third row feels like an afterthought, the Carnival’s third row is spacious enough for adults. The seats come with reclining features, and passengers get their own AC vents, charging points, and even a table similar to the one in the second row. The headroom is impressive, even for taller passengers, and the knee room is adequate, ensuring long drives won’t be uncomfortable.
Tech and Features: High-End Experience
The driver’s cockpit in the new Carnival is laden with features. The steering wheel is a new-generation Kia design with controls for audio, ADAS, and the instrument cluster. While the steering wheel adjustment is manual, you can set it for height and reach. The digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen infotainment system dominate the dashboard, offering seamless control over various features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The AC vents have been given a sleek, extended design, and the climate control system ensures a comfortable cabin temperature at all times. There’s also a wireless charging pad with indicators to show the charging speed.
Engine Options: Diesel and Hybrid Choices
Kia is expected to offer the new Carnival with two engine options:
- 2.0-litre Diesel Engine: This engine is expected to be the same as the one found in the Hyundai Tucson, but with slightly more power. This tried-and-tested engine is known for its reliability and performance.
- Hybrid Engine: The much-anticipated Carnival Hybrid could be the real game-changer. With the increasing popularity of hybrids, especially in the Delhi NCR region where diesel vehicles face restrictions, a hybrid Carnival could attract many buyers looking for an eco-friendly, yet powerful, MPV.
Competitors: A New Challenger in the Segment
The new Kia Carnival will be priced between ₹55 to ₹60 lakhs (on-road), positioning it against popular seven-seaters like the Toyota Fortuner. However, with its range of features, premium design, and the potential hybrid variant, the Carnival offers much more than its competitors in terms of value for money.
Important Specifications at a Glance
| Feature | Kia Carnival Facelift Highlights |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹55 – ₹60 Lakhs (on-road) |
| Seating Capacity | 7-seater (8-seater with captain seats) |
| Engine Options | 2.0-litre Diesel, Hybrid (expected) |
| ADAS Level | Level 2 |
| Sunroof | Dual Sunroof |
| Touchscreen | Large-sized touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Boot Space | Ample, with 12V charging and extra storage boxes |
| Charging Ports | Type-C and 12V |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloys |
FAQs About the New Kia Carnival
1. When is the Kia Carnival facelift expected to launch in India?
The Kia Carnival facelift is expected to launch in India in the next few months, possibly by the next quarter of this year.
2. What engine options will the new Carnival offer?
It is expected to come with a 2.0-litre diesel engine and a hybrid option.
3. What will be the on-road price of the new Carnival?
The new Carnival is expected to be priced between ₹55 – ₹60 lakhs on-road.
4. How many people can the Carnival seat?
The Carnival will be available as a 7-seater in India, though global variants offer up to four rows and more seating capacity.
5. Does the Carnival offer ADAS?
Yes, the Carnival comes with Level 2 ADAS, enhancing its safety features.
6. Is there a hybrid variant of the Carnival?
A hybrid variant is expected, which would be a masterstroke for regions like Delhi NCR, where diesel cars face restrictions.
7. What are some key competitors of the Kia Carnival?
The Kia Carnival competes with seven-seaters like the Toyota Fortuner, but offers more features at a similar price point.