Kia Carnival IV (facelift 2023) 1.6 T-GDI Smartstream (245 Hp) Hybrid Automatic 9 Seats


Overall Rating

8.1 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 4.5 / 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)

IV (facelift 2023) Overview:

Kia Carnival (IV (facelift 2023)). With 265 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~6.95 l/100km). At around 2160 kg, it’s on the heavier side. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A spacious vehicle designed to transport passengers comfortably, often with sliding doors. With seating for 9, it’s perfect for larger families.

1.6 T-GDI Smartstream (245 Hp) Hybrid Automatic 9 Seats Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

With 245 Hp (system output), this hybrid provides adequate power for a 9-seater minivan, ensuring smooth acceleration and comfortable cruising even with a full complement of passengers.

Fuel Economy

Offering excellent fuel economy between 7.1-7.4 l/100 km, this is the most efficient option for larger families, significantly reducing running costs compared to petrol-only variants.

Best Use Case: Large families / Urban and suburban driving / Cost-conscious buyers

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Spacious and highly versatile interior with up to 9 seats
  • • Modern and stylish exterior design, blending minivan practicality with SUV appeal
  • • Wide range of engine options, including efficient hybrid and torquey diesel
  • • Comfortable ride quality, ideal for long family journeys
  • • Generous cargo capacity, especially with rear seats folded

Cons:

  • • V6 petrol engines can be quite thirsty, impacting running costs
  • • Large dimensions can make urban parking and maneuvering challenging
  • • Not all engine options are available in every market
  • • Euro NCAP rating of 4 stars is good, but not class-leading 5 stars

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(IV: June, 2020 - October, 2023).

General:
Brand:Kia
Model:Carnival
Generation:IV (facelift 2023)
Modification (Engine):1.6 T-GDI Smartstream (245 Hp) Hybrid Automatic 9 Seats
Start of production:November, 2023
Powertrain Architecture:FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle)
Body type:Minivan
Seats:9
Doors:5
Engine:
Engine systems:Start & Stop System
Power:180 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:112.6 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:265 Nm @ 1500-4500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:Smartstream More details about the engine Smartstream
Engine displacement:1598
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Direct injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:75.6 mm mm
Piston Stroke:89 mm mm
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:6.8-7.1 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7.5-7.6 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.1-7.4 l/100 km
Weight-to-power ratio:8.8 kg/Hp, 113.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.9 kg/Nm, 170.3 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:2155-2165
Size:
Length:5155 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1995 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1785 mm mm [45mm more]
Wheelbase:3090 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1739-1744 mm
Rear (Back) track:1738-1743 mm
Front overhang:935 mm
Rear overhang:1130 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):173 mm
Approach angle:15.4°
Departure angle:20°
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size230/60 R18; 235/55 R19
Wheel rims size7J x 18; 7.5J x 19
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension
Electric:
Gross battery capacity:1.49 kWh
Battery technology:Lithium-ion (Li-Ion)
System power:245 Hp
System torque:367 Nm
Electric motor power:73 Hp
Electric motor Torque:304 Nm
Electric motor location:Between the combustion engine and the transmission
Electric motor type:Synchronous
Battery weight:42 kg
Battery voltage:270 V

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