2023 Kia Carnival SLi: Quick review

The Kia Carnival has established itself as a leader in the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment, offering families a blend of space, comfort, and versatility.

The Kia Carnival not only boasts a cavernous boot space but also commands a remarkable 80 percent share of the Australian people mover market.

It's not only a favoured choice among corporate and rental fleets but also a top pick for families seeking more room than your typical large SUV can offer.

Built on the platform used for the Sorento SUV, the Carnival stretches 5.2 meters in length and tips the scales at just over two tonnes.

The 2023 SLi Diesel variant adds a layer of efficiency and performance to the mix. But in a market that's increasingly shifting towards SUVs, can the Carnival SLi maintain its ongoing appeal?

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2023 Kia Carnival Platinum shown

Pricing and features

Situated just about the entry-level grade Carnival, the SLi Diesel is priced between $57,780- $59,780 before on-road costs for the petrol and diesel models respectively.

Underneath, you'll find a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel, paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 148kW and 440Nm.

A 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine was available alongside the diesel however Kia's Australia announced a temporary suspension of orders for the Kia Carnival people-mover equipped with these V6 petrol engines.

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2023 Kia Carnival Platinum shown

This pause in production stems from Kia's decision to give precedence to the manufacturing of the 3.5-litre engine for international markets.

The SLi variants sits in third of the four variant line-up, meaning it's really well equipped. Annoyingly, wireless Carplay is only available in the entry-level S grade, and not throughout the rest of the range.

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Safety

The Carnival boasts a five-star safety rating from ANCAP, achieved in 2021, thanks to a comprehensive array of safety features available throughout the model lineup.

In terms of crash safety, the Carnival has performed exceptionally well, achieving scores of 90 percent for adult occupant protection and 88 percent for child occupant protection.

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The Carnival's advanced auto emergency braking (AEB) system is equipped with detection capabilities for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Additionally, despite its wealth of technology, the Carnival surprisingly lacks rain-sensing wipers, which, although not crucial for safety, are a notable absence.

Key rivals

With the Honda Odyssey, formerly a major competitor is no longer available in Australia. Its exit from the market is a contributing factor to the Carnival's dominance in the people mover segment.

Other competitors to the Carnival include:

• Hyundai Staria
• Mercedes-Benz Vito Tourer
• Toyota Granvia
• Volkswagen Caravelle
• Volkswagen Multivan

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2023 Kia Carnival SLi is a compelling option for those who prioritize space, comfort, and fuel efficiency in a family vehicle.

While its size may be daunting for some, the benefits of its expansive interior and diesel economy (without petrol currently available) make it a standout choice.

If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle everything from daily commutes to family road trips with ease, the Carnival SLi Diesel is certainly worth considering.