Kia India has launched the much-anticipated fourth-generation Carnival, a premium multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that has taken the Indian automotive market by storm. This latest offering, arriving as a completely built unit (CBU), marks a significant upgrade over its predecessor, both in terms of features and pricing. The 2024 Kia Carnival Limousine variant is priced at ₹63.90 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most expensive MPVs in India, even surpassing the price tag of the popular Toyota Fortuner. Despite the steep price hike, Kia has already secured 2,796 bookings for the Carnival, a testament to its widespread appeal among Indian consumers.
Key Features of the 2024 Kia Carnival
The 2024 Kia Carnival Limousine is a 7-seater luxury MPV that is packed with high-end features designed to cater to the demands of premium car buyers. The exterior and interior updates of the Carnival have elevated its status to that of a high-end luxury vehicle, while its SUV-like design adds a bold and sophisticated look.
Exterior Design: A Perfect Blend of Luxury and Style
The new Kia Carnival stands out with its large dimensions and a striking design that echoes Kia’s family SUV lineup. Measuring 5,155mm in length, 1,995mm in width, and 1,775mm in height (including roof rails), the Carnival is now bigger than ever before. It features a more aggressive SUV-like body style, moving away from the traditional minivan look. The front end is dominated by Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille, which has been enlarged, giving the Carnival a bold presence on the road.
Adding to the futuristic look are the L-shaped LED DRLs (daytime running lights) and vertical LED projector headlamps, which provide excellent visibility during night drives. The 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels give the Carnival a sophisticated stance, while the sleek body contours, powered sliding doors, and almost connected LED tail lamps enhance its overall appearance.
Interior: Luxurious Comfort Meets Cutting-Edge Technology
Step inside the 2024 Kia Carnival Limousine, and you’re greeted with a luxurious, high-tech interior. The cabin features a two-tone interior with premium materials, delivering a feel of true luxury. The front and second rows are equipped with ventilation and heating functions, ensuring maximum comfort for all passengers. The front-row seats include a 12-way powered driver’s seat and an 8-way powered passenger seat, making long drives comfortable and stress-free.
The Carnival boasts a 12.3-inch driver display and an equally impressive 12.3-inch infotainment system, integrated with a 12-speaker Bose sound system that provides a premium audio experience. The 11-inch head-up display projects essential driving information directly onto the windshield, helping drivers keep their eyes on the road. Additional features like 64-color ambient lighting, shift-by-wire transmission control, and push-button start/stop add to the luxurious feel.
Second-Row Comfort: Ottoman-Style Seats
The second row in the Carnival is where luxury truly shines. It comes with Ottoman-style captain seats that slide, recline, and offer leg support, ensuring a first-class travel experience for passengers. These seats are also ventilated and heated, making them ideal for long-distance journeys. The second-row passengers can also enjoy the dual-pane electric sunroof, while the roof-mounted AC vents ensure that the cabin remains cool even in hot weather.
Safety Features: Advanced Technology for a Safe Ride
Kia has equipped the 2024 Carnival Limousine with some of the most advanced safety features available in its segment. The car comes with 8 airbags, ensuring protection for all passengers in case of a collision. The vehicle is also packed with Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning. Other safety features include ABS with EBD, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), hill-assist control, and a 360-degree camera that makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier.
Performance and Engine Specifications
The 2024 Kia Carnival Limousine is powered by a robust 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine that generates 193 hp and 441 Nm of peak torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission, which ensures smooth and efficient power delivery. The Carnival is front-wheel driven, offering a balanced and stable ride.
With its powerful engine, the Carnival is capable of handling both city and highway driving with ease. The shift-by-wire technology replaces the traditional gear shifter with electronic controls, providing a more futuristic and responsive driving experience. Despite its large size, the Carnival offers impressive handling, making it an ideal choice for both long road trips and daily commutes.
Technology and Infotainment: A Step Ahead
Kia has left no stone unturned when it comes to the technology offerings in the Carnival. The 12.3-inch infotainment display is equipped with the latest connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless phone charging. The MPV also features 3-zone climate control, ensuring that each row of passengers enjoys personalized temperature settings.
The 12-speaker Bose audio system delivers a theater-like audio experience, making long drives more enjoyable. Additionally, the 11-inch head-up display (HUD) keeps the driver informed of key details such as speed, navigation, and other vehicle information without taking their eyes off the road.
Premium Warranty and Maintenance Package
Kia India is offering an attractive after-sales package with the 2024 Carnival Limousine, which includes 3 years of free maintenance, a comprehensive warranty package, and roadside assistance (RSA) benefits. This adds to the peace of mind for buyers, ensuring that their investment is well protected over the long term.
Price and Competition: A Premium Tag for a Premium MPV
The 2024 Kia Carnival Limousine comes with a hefty price tag of ₹63.90 lakh, which places it in the same league as some luxury SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and even entry-level models from premium brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. However, considering the range of features, safety technologies, and premium comfort it offers, the Carnival stands out as a value-for-money option for those looking for a spacious and luxurious 7-seater.
Despite its high price, the Carnival has already garnered a significant number of bookings, signaling strong interest from buyers looking for a premium MPV experience.
A Game-Changer for the Premium MPV Segment
The 2024 Kia Carnival Limousine is not just an upgrade; it’s a revolution in the MPV segment. With its combination of luxurious interiors, cutting-edge technology, and a powerful engine, it sets a new benchmark for premium family vehicles in India. While the price may seem steep, the features and comfort it offers more than justify the cost, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize luxury, space, and advanced technology in their vehicle.