The Kia Carnival: Way too practical for someone like me

I find the Hyundai/Kia hybrid setup used here interesting: a turbocharged engine backed by a six-speed auto.

And I think it's kind of annoying how practical the Carnival is. Like, why should I get anything else when a minivan checks so many boxes, even if I only have a single kid?

It's interesting (and I think smart) that they styled the nose to provide a more SUV appearance while keeping the sliding doors and minivan utility. 

That may sway the "I'll never drive a minivan" or "I'm not a minivan person" crowd to consider it as an option. 

In reply to Colin Wood :

I agree, the Hyundai/Kia hybrid setup is quite intriguing! The combination of a turbocharged engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission offers a balance of power and efficiency. Typically, hybrids prioritize fuel economy, but this setup suggests a bit more performance-oriented approach, giving the car a sportier feel while maintaining some eco-friendly benefits. The six-speed auto might not be the most common pairing for hybrids, as many have transitioned to CVTs, but this could provide a more engaging driving experience. What do you think of the overall driving dynamics with this configuration?

Do it Kia you cowards

In reply to JG Pasterjak :

Needs flares, a drop, a monster sticky tires that start with a 3. 

In reply to JG Pasterjak :

Whoop, whoop. 

I had one of these for a week, even in the same color, when we were in St. Croix due to all our teenagers suddenly wanting to hang out with us when we're going somewhere cool.  I was really impressed with it.  It handled the twists, turns, and rough roads of island life well.  

Compared to our Sienna, the engine was torquier if a little less refined in some situations.  The only other thing I missed was the power liftgate, which I'm sure is an option on some trims.  Having a modern Android Auto display and a great sound system were nice amenities.  

The only thing I would criticize is the traction control, which has aggressive onset and totally disconnects the throttle pedal at the first hint of wheelspin.  This is something I have encountered on all of the Kias I've driven.  We got stuck in some loose sand (that my wife told me not to drive through anyway,) and as soon as there was a hint of wheelspin, it killed all torque immediately and was very slow to command more torque.  I lost my momentum and some dignity, as we aired down the tires and recruited some help to push it out.  I have zero doubt (so I said at the time) that the Sienna would have made it because it allows some wheelspin when TC is active.

Great van all-around and I would definitely consider one.

We made a stop at the rest area and, dang, check out that golden hour.

H and 8 both sound the same and H is the 8th letter. 
Well played!  

I hope you know that this will go down on your permanent record.

John Welsh said:

H and 8 both sound the same and H is the 8th letter. 
Well played!  

 

I hope you know that this will go down on your permanent record.

 

But did he get a blister in the sun?