Kia has unveiled key specifications and pricing for the ‘The New Carnival’, which is set for release this month, with pre-orders beginning on November 8 (Wednesday).
The New Carnival is a product enhancement model that marks the return of the fourth generation Carnival three years after its initial launch on August 4, 2020.
The fourth-generation Carnival, based on an unparalleled brand image and product quality, has established itself as a best-seller in the domestic large RV market. Kia has enhanced the Carnival’s competitiveness through this product improvement, adding a more sophisticated and robust image.
The New Carnival features not only a new design reflecting Kia’s design philosophy of ‘Opposite United’ but also a design-specialized trim, the introduction of a hybrid powertrain, improved ride comfort and quietness, and additional advanced and convenience features that maximize its luxurious image.
Kia has implemented an exterior design that harmonizes refined sophistication with SUV-like robustness and has enhanced the interior design with a simple form and more three-dimensional aspects through lighting, while also introducing the Gravity trim, which differentiates itself with a black-colored dedicated radiator grille.
To meet the growing customer demand for eco-friendly vehicles in the mid-to-large RV market, Kia has introduced the 1.6 turbo hybrid powertrain. Improved shock absorbers and reinforced soundproofing materials have been integrated to ensure comfortable ride quality and quietness suitable for a family vehicle.
With the application of over-the-air (OTA) software updates, the vehicle can always remain equipped with the latest software. Additionally, popular safety and convenience features such as Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), Head-Up Display (HUD), driver’s Ergo Motion seat, and UV-C sterilizing armrest storage have been significantly enhanced to increase the vehicle’s overall value.
The sales prices of The New Carnival start at 34.7 million won for the 3.5 gasoline variant, 36.65 million won for the 2.2 diesel, and 39.25 million won for the 1.6 turbo hybrid. (※ Prices are based on the 9-passenger Prestige trim) The best fuel efficiencies for the 9-passenger model with 18-inch tires are ▲3.5 gasoline at 9.0 km per liter ▲2.2 diesel at 13.1 km per liter ▲1.6 turbo hybrid at 14.0 km per liter. (※ Hybrid model fuel efficiency is based on internal testing and official figures will be released upon completion of certification)
The exterior of The New Carnival, reflecting the Opposite United philosophy, has evolved with Kia’s new family look, becoming more sophisticated and robust.
The front of the vehicle features ‘Star Map Signature Lighting’ daytime running lights (DRL), creating a futuristic image, along with a luxurious patterned large radiator grille, adding a majestic feel.
The side profile harmoniously connects vertically shaped front and rear lamps along straight character lines for enhanced balance, while the rear section applies uniformity with the Star Map rear combination lamps, lowering the license plate position and converting the exposed type handle to a hidden type for a clean image in the tailgate area.
Kia has redefined the interior space of The New Carnival as ‘a spacious area where peace and comfort can be fully experienced,’ emphasizing a sense of horizontal spaciousness with design elements like the panoramic curved display and enhancing three-dimensionality through lighting.
The seamlessly connected 12.3-inch cluster and infotainment system create a futuristic atmosphere, while the next-generation infotainment system ‘ccNC (connected car Navigation Cockpit)’ provides various information in an intuitive and convenient manner.
Kia has optimized the button configuration on the infotainment/climate control switch and expanded ambient lighting to the crash pad, achieving a simple yet luxurious design, while also incorporating large cup holders to improve spatial efficiency.
Kia has introduced new exterior colors including ▲Ivory Silver, as well as ▲Snow White Pearl, ▲Astra Blue, ▲Aurora Black Pearl, ▲Panthera Metal, and ▲Ceramic Silver, totaling six unique exterior colors. There are also three new interior colors: ▲Taupe, ▲Navy Gray, and ▲Cotton Beige. (※‘Navy Gray’ is exclusively for the hybrid model.)
Kia has ensured that the New Carnival, alongside the existing 3.5 gasoline and 2.2 diesel options, also offers a 1.6 turbo hybrid to meet the needs of customers seeking economy and eco-friendliness.
The 1.6 turbo hybrid boasts not only exceptional fuel efficiency at 14.0 km/l but also outstanding performance with a total system output of 245 horsepower (engine output of 180 horsepower) and a maximum torque of 37.4 kgf·m (engine maximum torque of 27.0 kgf·m). It features technology utilizing the drive motor, including ▲E-Ride, ▲E-Handling, and ▲E-EHA (Electrically Evasive Handling Assist) to enhance ride comfort and driving performance. (※ Hybrid model fuel efficiency, output, and torque are based on internal testing and official figures will be released upon certification completion)
E-Ride minimizes vehicle shaking by adjusting the torque of the drive motor during acceleration or when passing over bumps, providing a comfortable ride. E-Handling improves steering response and cornering stability by shifting the center of gravity during entry and exit from curves. E-EHA enhances evasive capability and post-evasion body stability by controlling the load on the front and rear wheels during avoidance maneuvers to avoid frontal collisions.
Kia will offer The New Carnival in both 7-passenger and 9-passenger models, with the Gravity trim introduced for customers valuing unique character.
The Gravity trim features projection LED headlights, LED rear combination lamps, side steps as standard equipment, and differentiating design elements such as a dedicated black radiator grille, wheels, and dark metal-colored garnishes, maximizing its luxurious feel.
Designed with family vehicles in mind, The New Carnival ensures both ride comfort and a premium experience for all passengers.
Kia has optimized and applied the shock absorbers previously used in the Carnival Hi-Limousine to The New Carnival, improving comfort for rear-seat passengers passing over speed bumps while enhancing steering stability. Additionally, interior quietness was reinforced through improved noise insulation materials and designs minimizing noise generation.
The ‘Multi-Zone Voice Recognition’ system allows vehicle controls via voice; it distinguishes speaking locations for the front and second row seats and applies the new wake-up command “Hey Kia” for improved usability. Also, healthcare features for family customers such as a UV-C sterilizing armrest storage and an air conditioning photocatalytic sterilization system have been applied for the first time in Kia vehicles.
Additionally, features such as a radar sensor-based rear passenger alert system to prevent safety accidents, a second-row dynamic body care seat offering vibration massage function for relaxation (※ for 7-passenger model only), a second-row seatbelt buckle light for nighttime convenience, and dual laminated soundproof glass for the second-row seat have also been included.
Furthermore, Kia has added customer-preferred features like the Kia Digital Key 2, C-type USB ports, and hood gas struts to enhance the value of The New Carnival.
For drivers, specifications such as a head-up display (HUD), driver’s Ergo Motion seat, digital center mirror (DCM), built-in cam 2, and fingerprint authentication system have been incorporated for increased convenience.
Advanced driver-assistance systems have been applied, including front collision-avoidance assistance (including cross-vehicle and lateral approach alerts), Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2, including lane change assistance), intelligent speed limit assistance, parking distance warning for front/side/rear, and steering wheel vibration warnings, while eight airbags, including a center side airbag, have been added for a comfortable and safe drive.
Kia has applied wireless software updates as a standard to keep the vehicle’s main electronic control functions up to date, while also introducing ‘Streaming Plus’ in the infotainment system to enjoy video and high-quality audio content, providing an enhanced in-vehicle experience.
As a customizable product, new options like the ‘My Comfort Package’ and ‘Smart Rear Seat Entertainment System (ccRC, connected car Rear Cockpit)’ will be offered to provide differentiated convenience to customers.
The My Comfort Package includes a built-in air purifier that uses H13 grade HEPA filters to purify the indoor air and an electronic ‘hot and cold cup holder (1st and 2nd rows)’ to maintain the temperature of beverages for an optimal relaxation environment inside the vehicle.
The Smart Rear Seat Entertainment System allows second-row seat occupants to enjoy various content independently on the 14.6-inch Full HD dual monitors, including online video services (OTT), with the capability to add more content through an app store after purchasing the vehicle, catering to individual preferences for rear seat convenience. (※ The Smart Rear Seat Entertainment System will be launched separately in the future)
Kia also presents The New Carnival Hi-Limousine that enhances its refined majesty with luxurious elegance during the pre-order phase.
The Hi-Limousine boasts a design that solidifies its presence as a premium limousine, providing differentiated interior space and high-end specifications.
Kia has equipped the Hi-Limousine with side steps to improve convenience for ingress and egress, and dedicated auxiliary brake lights at the rear of the high roof enhance visibility while completing its distinct presence.
The Hi-Limousine’s interior is designed to offer ‘premium comfort enjoyed in a dedicated space’, ensuring that anyone onboard experiences the best moment from the moment they enter.
With a maximum height increase of 305mm compared to the standard New Carnival model due to the high roof, it offers ample and spacious interior space, while the ceiling features a ‘Starry Sky Mood Lighting’ inspired by the twinkling stars at night, creating an emotional ambiance.
Furthermore, it provides rear passengers with a ‘21.5-inch smart monitor’ and online video service (OTT) for enjoying diverse content, along with a basic ‘e-SIM router’ enabling Wi-Fi usage in the vehicle (※ LTE signal-based in-vehicle Wi-Fi, separate communication charges may apply) for convenient viewing.
Additionally, the ‘Pleated Curtains’ applied on the rear side and rear allow for the formation of personal space, further aiding in a cozy rest experience.
The business trip-optimized Hi-Limousine 4-seater model comes with newly applied ‘Dynamic Body Care’ functionality for the seats to provide relaxing comfort during extended rides. The seats feature Nappa leather with quilted stitching for an even more differentiated design premium.
Kia operates the Hi-Limousine with three powertrain options: ▲3.5 gasoline, ▲2.2 diesel, and ▲1.6 turbo hybrid, offering customers three options including the 4-seat model exclusive to the Hi-Limousine, alongside 7-passenger and 9-passenger choices. (※ Diesel is available only for the 9-passenger model)
Kia plans to deliver the gasoline and diesel models of The New Carnival and The New Carnival Hi-Limousine to customers starting mid-November, followed by gradual delivery of hybrid models upon completion of major certification.
The prices for the 9-passenger trims of The New Carnival are as follows: 3.5 gasoline ▲Prestige 34.7 million won ▲Noblesse 39.1 million won ▲Signature 42.45 million won; 2.2 diesel ▲Prestige 36.65 million won ▲Noblesse 41.05 million won ▲Signature 44.40 million won; and for the 1.6 turbo hybrid ▲Prestige 39.25 million won ▲Noblesse 43.65 million won ▲Signature 47 million won.
The prices for the 7-passenger trims are: 3.5 gasoline ▲Noblesse 41.69 million won ▲Signature 45.25 million won; 2.2 diesel ▲Noblesse 43.62 million won ▲Signature 47.18 million won; and for the 1.6 turbo hybrid ▲Noblesse 46.19 million won ▲Signature 49.75 million won.
The design-specialized trim, ▲Gravity, can be selected for an additional 1.6 million won based on the Signature trim for the 9-passenger model and an additional 1.38 million won for the 7-passenger model.
For the 9-passenger trims of The New Carnival Hi-Limousine, prices are: 3.5 gasoline ▲Signature 64.90 million won, 2.2 diesel ▲Signature 66.85 million won; for the 1.6 turbo hybrid, the prices are ▲Noblesse 62.50 million won ▲Signature 69.45 million won.
For the 7-passenger model, the prices are: 3.5 gasoline ▲Signature 68.20 million won, and for the 1.6 turbo hybrid ▲Signature 72.70 million won.
For the 4-passenger model, the prices are: 3.5 gasoline ▲Signature 92.00 million won, and for the 1.6 turbo hybrid ▲Signature 96.50 million won.
An official from Kia stated, “The New Carnival features the addition of a hybrid model preferred by customers and showcases majestic design along with new advanced and convenience features,” adding, “We aim to provide differentiated premium quality for all family and corporate customers as a representative large RV.”
Jin Lee, daedusj@autodiary.kr