Which 2022 Kia Carnival variant should you buy? [Comparison Guide] 

In February 2022, Kia Philippines finally launched the all-new Kia Carnival. Of note, this is the fourth-generation model which uses the new N3 Hyundai-Kia platform.  

The all-new 2022 Kia Carnival

For the Philippines, the 2022 Kia Carnival has two different variants. These are the Carnival EX 2.2 AT and the Carnival SX 2.2 AT. So, which one’s the right one? How are they different? Let’s help you answer these questions.  

Kia Carnival Variants: Exterior 

Size-wise, both the EX and SX trims are pretty much identical. Both have a length of 5,155mm, a width of 1,995mm, and a height of 1,740mm. Both also have a wheelbase length of 3,060mm. 

The new Carnival from the rear

Both also look the same on the outside. Specifically, both trims come standard with LED headlamps, front fog lamps, roof rails, and LED taillights. For wheels though, the top-spec SX rides on a 19-inch set, whereas the entry-level EX uses an 18-inch set. 

Kia Carnival Variants: Interior 

For interiors, both the EX and SX trims can provide seating for up to seven occupants. Both also have a 3-zone automatic climate control system, power sliding doors, and power tailgate, and a sunroof.  

Of note, the 2022 Kia Carnival SX trim is integrated with a dual sunroof. The SX also gets a 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, while the EX gets a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Both trims do have an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger’s seat. 

The Carnival SX's premium relaxation seats

Furthermore, the SX variant also has front seat cooling and heating, and second-row cooling and heating. Speaking of which, the SX has second-row premium relaxation seats with a leg rest, while the Carnival EX has regular captain seats.  

On the EX, its seats are clad in leatherette. The SX in turn comes with leather seats. Meanwhile, Kia Philippines is not offering the all-new Carnival with an 11-seat configuration. The car brand added that it has no plans of introducing it as of this writing. As such, both Carnival variants come with seven seats. 

The EX trim's captain seats

For the driver, both the EX and SX are then provided with an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic headlamps, a digital gauge cluster, a push-to-start button, and cruise control. 

For entertainment, both Kia Carnival variants are kitted out with an eight-inch touchscreen headunit. On both trims, this infotainment system can connect to smartphones via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also has USB ports, Bluetooth, and a handsfree voice control function. Only the top-spec Carnival SX gets wireless smartphone charging. 

The 2022 Kia Carnival's eight-inch touchscreen

Kia Carnival Variants: Engine & Performance 

Under the hood, both trims of the Philippine-spec Carnival use a 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine. This oil burner can churn out up to 200 horsepower and 440 Nm of torque. The Carnival’s sole transmission option for the local market is an eight-speed gearbox. This tranny then sends power to its front wheels. 

The Carnival uses the 2.2-liter Smartstream D2.2 CRDi inline-4 diesel engine

The Kia Carnival for the Philippines then uses a Macpherson strut for the front, and a multi-link for the rear. Both the EX and SX also use disc brakes for all four wheels, as well an as electronic parking brake.  

Kia Carnival Variants: Safety 

For safety, both the EX and SX Carnival trims are equipped with anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution, stability control, hill-start assist, and parking sensors. Both also come with six airbags. 

To support those safety features the SX also has lane keep and following assist, collision avoidance assist, blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit assist for its sliding doors. 

Kia Carnival Variants: Pricing 

Kia Carnival Variants: Conclusion

When it comes to giving performance as well as interior space, the all-new 2022 Kia Carnival’s variants are pretty even. They even have the same infotainment systems. Then again, the SX can give its occupants a great deal of more comfort due to having cooled, relaxation seats. Furthermore, the SX also has a more comprehensive safety kit than the entry-level EX.  

Take note however that these features available only on the SX come at a price. To put it into perspective, the SX is Php 448,000 more expensive than the EX.  

A peek inside the new Carnival's cockpit

So, which one’s the right one for you? Well, if you like a high-tech family ride that will give you peace of mind in your travels, then the SX might be up your alley.  

If you just want a comfortable ride with fewer electronic knick-knacks, then go for the EX. 

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