Kia’s Carnival 2,9 CRDi may feel like a bit of a barge until you get used to its bulk, but the amount of space inside the large multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) more than compensates for the perceived lack of nimbleness. It’s also plush, comfortable and classy.
The facelifted Carnival is a great improvement over its predecessor. Styling has been sharpened up, and the middle and rear seats are now removable, freeing up a massive 3 350 dm³ for cargo. Where the earlier model offered airbag protection to the driver alone, the new Carnival is fitted with dual airbags for the driver and the front-seat passenger.
Passengers each have their own reading light, and those sitting in the middle and back rows of seats can adjust their own air conditioning vents to suit their tastes. Massive sliding doors on each side of the passenger compartment make loading and unloading a cinch, and an abundance of storage boxes, cup holders, trays and tie-down points come in very useful on a family outing.
The 2902 cc turbodiesel engine produces a claimed 106 kW at 3 800 rpm and 310 Nm torque at just 2 000. That’s good enough for a top speed of around 175 km/hr, and a 0-100 km/hr time of just over 14 seconds.
On the open road the Kia lopes effortlessly along at the speed limit and above without any need for gear changes. We initially felt that the suspension could have been a little more taut, but once we became accustomed to the car’s easy-going nature we grew to accept the soft ride.
Overall the Kia Carnival is a great MPV, and serves to reinforce our belief that the Korean motor industry is very much on the up and up.
At R299 995 it’s well worth a look.