POWER TO THE PEOPLE

With a strong V6 under the bonnet, the Korean favourite can move families with ease

There was a time when driving a people-mover made you feel secondclass. Then car makers discovered there was a demand for a vehicle like the Kia Grand Carnival that could carry a tribe with all their gear, and was safe, well equipped and decent to drive.

People-movers were no longer a bare bones vehicle; buyers of the VQ Grand Carnival could have it all with a choice of Si entry-level model, the well-equipped SLi, and full-fruit Platinum.

To carry people, shopping, prams, sports gear and whatever else families want to take, people-movers had to be large and boxy. Early ones were just that but contemporary models such as the Grand Carnival have enough styling to make them quite pleasing to the eye.

Seating for eight, in three rows, could be switched around to optimise use, folded or removed to create an enormous load space.

For families, there are five child seat anchorage points. Access to the rear rows is made easy by sliding doors on each side; they’re even powered on the Platinum.

Engine options were a punchy 3.5-litre V6 with plenty of power around town and for overtaking on the highway. In 2011, a more economical 2.2-litre turbo diesel was added.

Both turned a six-speed automatic and the final drive was through the front wheels.

On the safety side, the Grand Carnival got four stars with dual front airbags, side and head airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution and electronic stability control.

On the road it handled well for its size and performed decently with either engine.

WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

Grand Carnival owners tend to be happy with their vehicles, which are generally reliable. Few report problems. The previous model had some engine woes but the V6 has proven reliable, though owners complain about its thirst — most attribute that to the vehicle’s bulk.

The 2.2-litre turbo diesel, a thriftier choice, is prone to sludging and needs to be serviced as per the maker’s recommendation.

Family use means the interior comes in for some heavy use, particularly from kids, so take care to check the trim for wear and tear. It generally stands up well but it won’t take abuse.

The Grand Carnival V6 has a timing chain, which doesn’t need replacement.

Cash-strapped families sometimes skip services to save a few bucks but it’s not a wise thing to do. Check for a credible service record showing regular maintenance.

OWNERS SAY

MICHAEL FURBANK: We bought a 2011 SLi in 2015 and have found it both practical and reliable. It’s comfortable, has all the features we want and heaps of room for a large family. My only regret is not buying a diesel; the fuel economy of the V6 isn’t great.

FRANK MCDONALD: I wasn’t keen on getting a people-mover at first but I’ve changed my mind after buying our 2013 SLi. I like the high seating position, which gives you good vision, the performance of the V6 is good and I’ve had no problems with it in 80,000km.

SOPHIE JENKINS: We’ve had our 2010 SLi V6 for over three years and there have been no mechanical problems at all. I love the two sliding doors, the removable seats, the spacious boot and the tether points on the seat backs.

SMITHY SAYS

Top choice if you have a large family. It’s roomy, flexible and reliable.