One of the most exciting entries in the minivan segment is the 2022 Kia Carnival. Aptly called a multi-purpose vehicle by the automaker, the Carnival tries not to be a van. Although it looks like an SUV on the outside, it’s very much a van on the inside. Moreover, it is becoming more and more popular and with five levels of wear available, it is challenging to find the perfect choice. Critics usually disagree on many things, but experts agree on the best trim of the 2022 Kia Carnival, the Carnival EX.
What are the Kia Carnival 2022 outfits?
There are five different levels of carnival decoration. They are LX, LXS, EX, SX and SX Prestige. As a result, the lineup ranges from about $33,000 to over $47,500. Whichever model you buy, you’ll get a surprising value. For example, even the base LX model comes with the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, LED headlights, sliding rear doors, seven USB ports, and more.
Going beyond the base model, the Carnival lineup becomes more expensive, but better equipped. Buying an LXS adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat and a second-row bench seat. Combined, these items raise the starting MSRP to $35,365 from a base price of $33,635.
| 2022 Kia Carnival Models | PRICE |
| IX | 33635 dollars |
| LXS | 35635 dollars |
| LLC | $39,135 |
| SX | 42635 dollars |
| SX Prestige | 47635 dollars |
What is the best Kia Carnival 2022 model?
When you’re trying to find the best version of a vehicle, turn to the experts. Two of the top rated reviews are from Car and Driver and Edmunds. Most of the time, critics like these disagree on many things. However, the choice for the best 2022 Kia Carnival outfit is so obvious that even the experts agree. Both publications recommend that customers purchase the Carnival EX, the mid-level model for 2022.
With a starting price of $39,135, the EX model isn’t too expensive. While it outperforms the LX and LXS by a healthy margin, it remains affordable compared to the SX and SX Prestige, which run well into the $40,000 range. What makes the Carnival EX the best model to buy?
What are the standard features of the Carnival EX?
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The EX trim level is clearly a step up from the level below it. For example, it upgrades the standard wheels from 17-inch to 19-inch. Then, EX buyers are the first to get a hands-free power tailgate, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, a wireless smartphone charging station and an eight-speaker stereo system. However, the conveniences don’t end there, as this multi-purpose tool is built for more than one purpose.
Further, the Kia Carnival EX has three-zone automatic climate control, a rear cabin intercom system, a rear camera monitoring system, adaptive cruise control and an improved forward collision mitigation system. The combination of all this exclusive equipment with those of previous models makes it a very well equipped option. Especially the standard driver aids that come with every Carnival to ensure you and your family are safer.
Standard driver aids on LX and above include:
- Safe exit assistance
- Rear passenger warning
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Driver attention warning
- Forward collision mitigation
Experts agree that the Kia Carnival EX 2022 is the best model
Edmunds says the EX is the top trim level because it comes with many standard features and adds more that make it feel like a luxury SUV. Most importantly, the added technology and safety features are perfect for a stylish minivan alternative. Next, Car and Driver recommends the same model because it’s “the sweet spot between features and price.” With so much value packed in for an affordable price, it’s no wonder experts agree the 2022 Kia Carnival is the best trim.
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