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The Kia Carnival is a different take on a minivan — or as Kia calls it — a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). Inspired by the highly successful Telluride SUV, the Carnival has crossover-like dimensions, large wheels, premium design elements, and an upscale interior. For the 2023 model year, the Carnival adds some new features across the trim lineup. Find out what we know so far about the release date, price, specs, and features of the 2023 Kia Carnival. 

2023 Carnival specs: Engine output, gas mileage, and towing

Rear angle view of blue 2023 Kia Carnival, highlighting its release date and price
2023 Kia Carnival | Kia

All 2023 Kia Carnival minivans feature a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, it generates 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. For efficiency, the Carnival gets an estimated gas mileage of up to 19 city/26 highway mpg. Also, the Carnival has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. 

Unlike the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica minivans, the Carnival doesn’t offer an all-wheel drive system. It only has a front-wheel drive model.

What new features does the 2023 Carnival offer?

Dashboard and front seats in 2023 Kia Carnival, highlighting its release date and price
2023 Kia Carnival | Kia

The 2023 Kia Carnival is primarily a carryover model. However, the minivan offers some new features across the trim lineup. The Carnival SX trim has a newly standard blind-spot view monitor, as well as a panoramic 12.3-inch digital cluster and 12.3-inch center display. Also, the SX Prestige trim has newly standard eight-passenger Slide-Flex Seating with a second-row center multi-function seat.

Both the SX and SX Prestige trims offer newly optional streaming media capability and a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system. Plus, second-row VIP Lounge Seats are now available for the SX Prestige. 

What are the minivan competitors of the Kia Carnival?

The minivan competitors of the Kia Carnival include the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Chrysler Pacifica. 

For warranty coverage, the Carnival has the backing of a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. 

When will the 2023 Kia Carnival be available?

Front angle view of gray 2023 Kia Carnival, highlighting its release date and price
2023 Kia Carnival | Kia

As of 9/14/2022, the 2023 Kia Carnival is available to build, price, and test drive through Kia‘s site. It will be available to buy at Kia dealerships throughout the United States and in select international markets. The Kia Carnival is built at the Sohari Plant in Gwangmyeong, South Korea.

How much does the 2023 Kia Carnival cost?

According to Kia, here are the starting prices for each of the trims of the 2023 Kia Carnival:

  • LX: $33,100 MSRP
  • LX Seat Package: $35,100 MSRP
  • EX: $38,600 MSRP
  • SX: $41,800 MSRP
  • SX Prestige: $46,200 MSRP
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