Kia Carnival I (UP/GQ) 2.9 TD (135 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.2 / 10
Safety 2.0 / 5
Engine 3.2 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Kia Carnival:

The Kia Carnival is a minivan manufactured by the Korean automaker Kia since 1998. It is marketed globally under various nameplates, prominently as the Kia Sedona.
The first-generation Carnival was introduced in January 1998, and was marketed in a single, short wheelbase version. Second-generation models were marketed in short and long wheelbase variants. A rebadged variant of the second generation was offered in North America as the Hyundai Entourage. Beginning in 2010, the second-generation model received updated equipment, including Kia's corporate Tiger Nose grille, as introduced by its then new design chief, Peter Schreyer. Kia introduced its third-generation minivan in 2014, solely in a long wheelbase format. The fourth generation was introduced in 2020, when Kia also began using the Carnival nameplate worldwide....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I (UP/GQ) Overview:

Kia Carnival (I (UP/GQ)). With 309 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~12 l/100km). With a weight of 1855 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. The top speed reaches 170 km/h. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. With seating for 7, it’s perfect for larger families.

2.9 TD (135 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A good balance of power for a minivan, with the manual gearbox offering more driver control and potentially better acceleration than the automatic.

Fuel Economy

Expected to deliver good fuel economy, especially with the manual transmission, making it a practical choice for mixed driving.

Best Use Case: Mixed driving conditions / Drivers preferring manual control

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Very spacious and practical interior for families
  • • Good value for money on the used market
  • • Comfortable ride quality for long journeys
  • • Decent fuel economy from diesel engines (for its size)
  • • Ample cargo capacity with flexible seating

Cons:

  • • Dated exterior and interior styling
  • • High fuel consumption for V6 petrol engines
  • • Modest performance across the range
  • • Mixed reliability reputation for some components
  • • Limited safety features by modern standards (2-star Euro NCAP)

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Kia
Model:Carnival
Generation:I (UP/GQ)
Modification (Engine):2.9 TD (135 Hp)
Start of production:1998
End of production:2001
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Minivan
Seats:7
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:135 Hp @ 3800 rpm.
Power per litre:46.5 Hp/l
Torque:309 Nm @ 2000 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:J3
Engine displacement:2903
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Diesel Commonrail
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:6.6 l
Coolant:9.4 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:97.1 mm mm
Piston Stroke:98 mm mm
Compression ratio:19:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7 l/100 km
Maximum speed:170 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:13.7 kg/Hp, 72.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:6 kg/Nm, 166.6 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1855
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1159 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:344 l
Fuel tank capacity:75 l
Size:
Length:4890 mm mm
Width:1900 mm mm
Height:1730 mm mm
Wheelbase:2910 mm mm
Front track:1635 mm
Rear (Back) track:1600 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):13 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesDrum
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/70 R15
Wheel rims size15
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Behind the wheel of the Kia Carnival. How does it handle on the road?