I’ve always been fascinated by how car manufacturers evolve their models to meet changing consumer needs, and Kia’s minivan lineup is a prime example. The Kia Sedona, a staple in the minivan world, was replaced by the Kia Carnival in 2022, sparking curiosity about what sets these two apart.
In this article, I’ll walk you through a detailed comparison of the Kia Carnival and Kia Sedona, exploring their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide which one suits your family’s needs. From performance to interior space, I’ve got you covered.
Comparison Table: Kia Carnival vs. Kia Sedona
| Feature | Kia Carnival (2022-2025) | Kia Sedona (2002-2021) |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 (287-290 hp) or 1.6L Turbo Hybrid (242 hp) | 3.3L V6 (276 hp) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic (V6), 6-speed automatic (Hybrid) | 6-speed or 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 22 mpg (V6), 33 mpg (Hybrid) | 21 mpg |
| Seating Capacity | 7 or 8 | 7 or 8 |
| Cargo Space (Behind 1st Row) | 145.1 cu. ft. | 142.0 cu. ft. |
| Base Price (MSRP) | $32,300-$47,400 | $30,400-$41,500 |
| Infotainment | 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Safety Features | Standard automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring | Standard automated emergency braking, optional blind-spot monitoring |
| Warranty | 5-yr/60,000-mile limited, 10-yr/100,000-mile powertrain | 5-yr/60,000-mile limited, 10-yr/100,000-mile powertrain |
| Design | SUV-inspired, modern, rugged | Traditional minivan, softer styling |
My Journey with Kia’s Minivans
As a car enthusiast who’s spent countless hours researching family-friendly vehicles, I’ve always appreciated Kia’s knack for blending practicality with style. The Sedona was my go-to recommendation for budget-conscious families, but when the Carnival rolled out, I couldn’t wait to see how it stacked up.
Driving both vehicles gave me a real-world sense of their differences, and I’m excited to share my insights. Whether you’re eyeing a used Sedona or a shiny new Carnival, this comparison will break down what each brings to the table.
Kia Carnival: The Modern MPV
When I first saw the 2022 Kia Carnival, I was struck by its bold, SUV-like design. Kia calls it a “Multi-Purpose Vehicle” (MPV), and it’s easy to see why.
It’s not your typical minivan—it’s got a muscular front grille, sleek LED headlights, and a boxy profile that screams confidence.
The 2025 model year even introduced a hybrid option, which I found to be a game-changer for fuel-conscious families.
Pros of the Kia Carnival
- Powerful Engine Options: The Carnival’s 3.5L V6 pumps out 287-290 horsepower, making it one of the most potent minivans on the market. The new hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.6L turbo with an electric motor for 242 hp, offers better fuel efficiency—33 mpg combined, which I noticed made a difference on long drives.
- Spacious Interior: With best-in-class cargo space at 145.1 cubic feet behind the first row, I could easily fit a stroller, groceries, and sports gear without breaking a sweat. The passenger space is equally impressive, with 40.9 inches of front headroom and 64.2 inches of shoulder room.
- Advanced Technology: The available dual 12.3-inch displays for infotainment and gauges are crisp and intuitive. I loved how seamlessly Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrated, and the voice-activated assistant handled tasks like adjusting the climate control effortlessly.
- Luxury Features: The SX Prestige trim’s VIP Lounge Seating with power controls and leg extensions felt like first-class travel. The optional 12-speaker Bose audio system was a hit during road trips.
- Safety Suite: Standard features like automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring gave me peace of mind. The 2025 model’s lane-centering feature was particularly smooth on highways.
Cons of the Kia Carnival
- Less Refined Tech: While the tech is impressive, I found the voice control system less intuitive than competitors like the Honda Odyssey. The lane-keeping assist sometimes felt intrusive, ping-ponging the van within lanes.
- Firm Ride: The Carnival’s ride is plush but firmer than rivals, which I noticed on bumpy roads. It’s not a dealbreaker, but the Chrysler Pacifica feels smoother.
- No All-Wheel Drive: Unlike the Toyota Sienna, the Carnival is front-wheel-drive only, which might disappoint those in snowy regions.
- Hybrid Limitations: The hybrid powertrain, while efficient, adds weight and feels less peppy than the V6, which I felt during quick merges.
- Second-Row Seat Issues: The second-row seats are comfortable but tricky to adjust. I struggled to find the right levers for tilting and sliding, and they don’t always return to their original position.
Kia Sedona: The Reliable Classic
The Kia Sedona, which I drove extensively in its later years, was a dependable workhorse. Its softer, more traditional minivan design didn’t turn heads like the Carnival, but it delivered where it mattered—space, comfort, and value.
The Sedona’s final model year, 2021, offered a solid package for families on a budget.
Pros of the Kia Sedona
- Affordable Pricing: Starting at $30,400, the Sedona was often cheaper than rivals like the Honda Odyssey. I found used models to be incredible value buys.
- Comfortable Ride: The Sedona’s suspension soaked up road imperfections better than the Carnival, making it a favorite for long family trips.
- Spacious Enough: With 142 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, I could pack everything from camping gear to luggage. The 63.9 inches of front shoulder room felt roomy for me and my passengers.
- Reliable Engine: The 3.3L V6, producing 276 hp, was smooth and reliable. I never felt underpowered, even with a full load.
- Solid Safety Ratings: The Sedona earned a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, and features like automated emergency braking gave me confidence in its protective capabilities.
Cons of the Kia Sedona
- Outdated Tech: The 8-inch touchscreen felt small compared to the Carnival’s 12.3-inch display. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the interface lacked the polish of newer systems.
- Less Power: The 276-hp V6 lagged behind the Carnival’s 290-hp engine, which I noticed during highway passing.
- Lower Fuel Economy: At 21 mpg combined, the Sedona wasn’t as efficient as the Carnival’s hybrid option or competitors like the Toyota Sienna hybrid.
- Basic Design: The Sedona’s traditional minivan look felt dated next to the Carnival’s rugged styling. It didn’t stand out in a parking lot.
- Fewer Luxury Features: The Sedona lacked premium options like the Carnival’s VIP Lounge Seating or dual-panel sunroof, which I missed on higher trims.
Design and Styling: A Tale of Two Eras
Driving the Sedona always felt like slipping into a familiar, comfortable pair of shoes—familiar and functional. Its rounded, soft lines screamed “minivan,” which wasn’t a bad thing, but it lacked the modern flair of SUVs.
The Carnival, on the other hand, looks like it could pass for a Telluride’s cousin. Its angular headlights, bold grille, and sculpted body give it a commanding presence. When I parked the Carnival next to a Sedona, the latter looked like it belonged to a different decade.
The 2025 Carnival’s facelift, with its EV9-inspired headlights and sleeker lines, further widens the gap. I found the Carnival’s design more appealing for blending SUV ruggedness with minivan practicality, but the Sedona’s simplicity has a nostalgic charm for traditionalists.
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Performance: Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Carnival’s 3.5L V6 delivers 287-290 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic. I found it responsive and quick, especially for a minivan, with smooth shifts that made city driving a breeze. The hybrid option, introduced in 2025, combines a 1.6L turbo with an electric motor for 242 hp, offering better fuel economy but less punch. I noticed the hybrid struggled a bit on steep inclines compared to the V6.
The Sedona’s 3.3L V6, with 276 hp and 248 lb-ft, was no slouch, but it felt less lively during merges. Its fuel economy—18 mpg city, 24 mpg highway—was slightly worse than the Carnival’s 19/26 mpg (V6). The Sedona’s ride, however, felt more cushioned, which I preferred for relaxed cruising.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both vans seat seven or eight, but the Carnival edges out with more passenger and cargo space. I could stretch out more comfortably in the Carnival’s front seats, with 40.9 inches of headroom versus the Sedona’s 39.8. The Carnival’s 145.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row beat the Sedona’s 142 cubic feet, which made a difference when loading up for a weekend getaway.
The Carnival’s second-row VIP Lounge Seating (SX Prestige) was a standout, offering reclining captain’s chairs with footrests. The Sedona’s second row, while spacious, lacked such luxury. Both vans have fold-flat third rows, but the Carnival’s seats felt easier to stow, thanks to a smoother mechanism.
Technology and Infotainment
The Carnival’s tech is a leap forward. Its optional dual 12.3-inch screens are a visual treat, and the seven USB ports kept everyone’s devices charged. The voice assistant, though not perfect, handled basic commands well. The Sedona’s 8-inch touchscreen, while functional, felt cramped, and its tech suite lagged behind. For example, the Sedona’s rear-seat entertainment system used smaller 10.1-inch screens compared to the Carnival’s 14.6-inch monitors.
I found the Carnival’s infotainment more user-friendly, especially with its larger, crisper display. However, the Sedona’s simpler interface was less distracting, which some drivers might prefer.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both vans prioritize safety, but the Carnival takes the lead. Its standard suite includes automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2025 model’s lane-centering feature was a nice touch, though I found it overly sensitive at times. The Sedona offers similar features, but some, like blind-spot monitoring, were optional on lower trims. Both earned high safety ratings, with the Sedona scoring 5 stars from NHTSA and the Carnival earning IIHS Top Safety Pick status with LED headlights.
Driving Experience
Driving the Carnival felt more dynamic, thanks to its extra horsepower and tighter handling. I enjoyed its balanced ride, though it’s firmer than the Sedona’s softer suspension. The Sedona’s cushioned ride was ideal for long drives, but its steering felt less precise. The Carnival’s hybrid option, while fuel-efficient, added weight, making it less agile. Neither van offers all-wheel drive, which I found limiting in wet conditions compared to the AWD Toyota Sienna.
Value and Pricing
The Carnival starts at $32,300, slightly higher than the Sedona’s $30,400 base price. However, the Carnival’s higher trims, like the SX Prestige ($47,400), offer more luxury for the price. The Sedona’s top trim, SX, capped at $41,500, lacked some of the Carnival’s premium features. Both vans come with Kia’s stellar 5-year/60,000-mile limited and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties, which gave me confidence in their longevity.
Used Sedonas are a steal, often priced 20-30% lower than a new Carnival. I found this appealing for budget buyers, but the Carnival’s modern features justify the extra cost for those who want the latest tech.
Market Trends and Consumer Preferences
The shift from Sedona to Carnival reflects a broader trend: minivans are losing ground to SUVs. I noticed that the Carnival’s SUV-like styling appeals to families hesitant about the “minivan stigma.” The hybrid option aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly vehicles, though it’s not as efficient as the Toyota Sienna hybrid (36 mpg combined). The Sedona, while reliable, feels like a relic of the early 2000s minivan boom, which might not resonate with style-conscious buyers.
My Personal Take
After driving both, I lean toward the Carnival for its modern design, power, and tech. Its SUV-inspired look and hybrid option make it feel like a vehicle built for 2025, not 2015. However, the Sedona’s softer ride and lower price point make it a compelling choice for practical buyers, especially in the used market. If you prioritize luxury and cutting-edge features, the Carnival is your pick. If you want a reliable, no-frills minivan, a used Sedona might be enough.
Choosing the Right Van for You
Your choice depends on your priorities. If you’re after a budget-friendly, comfortable minivan with proven reliability, a used Sedona is hard to beat. Its straightforward design and lower cost appeal to practical families. If you want a stylish, tech-packed vehicle with a hybrid option, the Carnival is worth the investment. I recommend test-driving both to feel the difference in ride quality and handling. Consider your budget, tech needs, and whether you prefer a modern or classic minivan vibe.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, the Carnival replaced the Sedona in 2022. It’s a new generation with updated design, tech, and performance, but both are Kia’s minivan offerings.
Kia discontinued the Sedona to introduce the Carnival, aligning with global branding and offering a modern, SUV-like design to boost appeal.
The Carnival is larger in terms of passenger and cargo space, with 145.1 cu. ft. of cargo room versus the Telluride’s 87 cu. ft.
The Carnival is comparable to minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica, and Toyota Sienna in size, seating, and features.
Conclusion: Which Minivan Wins?
You’re now equipped with a detailed comparison of the Kia Carnival and Kia Sedona, two family-friendly minivans with distinct personalities. The Carnival’s bold styling, powerful engine, and advanced tech make it a modern standout, while the Sedona offers affordability and a comfortable ride for budget-conscious buyers.
Whether you choose the Carnival’s SUV-like flair or the Sedona’s classic reliability, both vans deliver value and versatility. I hope my insights help you pick the perfect ride for your family’s adventures. Let me know if you need more guidance—you’ve got this!
