Kia Carnival is one fun MPV

It will always be called a minivan in my eyes.

In today’s ever-evolving world, the name conventions of some familiar types of vehicles have recently changed. For BMW, they love to use the SAV acronym, for Sport Activity Vehicle, while SUV has always been familiar, but in the world of minivans we find Kia leading the charge with MPV, standing for multipurpose vehicle.

On our weekly tester, we enjoyed driving the 2022 Kia Carnival SX Prestige. This minivan, MPV, call it what you want, is absolutely awesome. It has that rugged SUV look, all while enjoying the ride and space of a minivan, a win if you ask me.

Our 2022 Kia Carnival tester came in a gorgeous Astra Blue with that ever-loving Tuscan Umber interior. A 3.5-liter V6 direct-injection engine was ultra quiet. Aligned with an eightspeed transmission, we noticed no issues in the powertrain as it was smooth and effortless.

For the Carnival, best in class comes to mind as it has the best passenger space and cargo space of any minivan. This is really important for consumers in this class as carrying a basketball team to a weekend game is just another day. For the Carnival, this is optimal.

Our tester came with the luxury

seating option, which included two mid-level VIP power lounge seats that are more comfortable than my couch. They were so comfortable that a midday nap was in store and it was the perfect test. The seats were so comfortable in all locations of the Carnival that we literally forgot we were in a vehicle. The 12.3 inch LCD digital instrument cluster as well as a 12.3 inch touch screen infotainment system were easy to use.

Kia, traditionally known for easy to use controls and adjustments, continued to deliver well as the Carnival was really a pleasure to drive and easy to use for all levels of passengers.

Riding on 19-inch black alloy wheels, the Carnival overall handled well and rode exceptionally. The Kia Drivewise Driver-assist technology was second to none as blind-spot collision avoidance and safe exit assist were my favorite and most-used aspects.

For Kia, we don’t know what to say. Not knowing what brand this was, you would have thought you were in an upscale luxury SUV as the ride was so enjoyable. Its exterior lines and body presence is stunning while the price and space is perfectly aligned. We love the Carnival and cannot wait to grab all of my family and friends and go to the local Carnival in style.

Kia Carnival

MSRP: $46,100

As tested: $47,770

MPG: 19city, 26highway, 22.8 as tested

PHOTO PROVIDED The Kia Carnival is a joy to drive, and be a passenger in, with comfortable seats and a smooth ride, with enough room for most of the soccer team.