2022 Kia Carnival MPV Vs. 2021 Kia Sedona Comparison
When shopping for a used vehicle for a growing family, many drivers find themselves comparing the Kia Carnival vs. Kia Sedona. The now-discontinued Kia Sedona continues to be a sought-after minivan because of its reliable powertrain, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. The Kia Carnival MPV is also a popular option for its SUV-like exterior, minivan functionality, and powerful engine.
At Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw, we know it's a tough choice. That's why we've assembled this detailed comparison between the 2021 Kia Sedona vs. 2022 Kia Carnival. In this guide, our aim is to help you make an educated and empowered choice in the next ride for your commute and family trips. Let's start with a broad overview of the specs and key features of each model.
Kia Carnival vs. Kia Sedona Specs Chart
As you can see in the chart above, both models offer excellent cargo space and features. However, the pre-owned Kia Carnival offers a bit more room, thanks to its longer body. It also scores higher in fuel economy and horsepower and offers a larger touchscreen than what you get with the Kia Sedona. On the flip side, a Kia pre-owned minivan like the 2021 Kia Sedona will likely have a lower price point. This iteration also has a larger fuel tank, boasts standard eight-person seating, and has the same towing capacity as the 2022 Kia Carnival MPV, which is 3,500 pounds.
How Do the 2022 Carnival MPV and Sedona Compare in Terms of Pricing?
The 2022 Kia Carnival MPV and 2021 Kia Sedona minivan are both used vehicles, so right away you know that you'll pay less than you would for a brand-new model. As the 2022 Kia Carnival is more recent, larger, and has more features, it is typically priced higher than a pre-owned Kia Sedona. Keep in mind that pricing depends on mileage, trim level, and overall condition, so it's not impossible to find a pre-owned Carnival priced below a used Sedona.
If you're shopping solely based on price alone, you can use the filters on our inventory pages to see which trims are more competitively priced. On the other hand, if you prioritize advanced performance and modern features, we recommend taking a close look at the Kia Carnival MPV, as it is still in production at the time of this writing.
When you arrive at our Kia dealership near Atlanta, you can compare them in person and see how they both offer plenty of value when it comes to respective cabin amenities, safety technology, and size. Considering these two iterations will be used, our inventory will vary, and we may not always have each option in stock. Contact our dealership to learn more about the availability of either model.
Kia Carnival vs. Kia Sedona Interior & Size Comparison
When shopping for a minivan or SUV, cargo room and passenger space are key factors when making a decision. Let's take a look at an interior and size comparison for the Kia Carnival MPV and Sedona minivan. Both of these Kia variants provide seating for up to eight occupants, although the Carnival does offer a seven-seat layout.
These family-focused iterations shine when it comes to driver headroom and shoulder room. The Kia Sedona dimensions include 39.8 inches of headroom and 63.9 inches of shoulder room in the front. If that isn't enough space, then we suggest the larger Kia Carnival MPV with its 40.9 inches of headroom and 64.2 inches of shoulder room in the first row. Since you might be taking the whole team to practice, you'll be glad to know that the Kia Carnival MPV also gives you 59.5 inches of shoulder room in the third row, as well as a total maximum cargo volume (SAE) of 145.1 cubic feet.
While you do get more cargo space for your belongings in the Carnival, the shorter body length of the Sedona could make it easier to maneuver in tighter parking spaces.
Performance Comparison: Kia Carnival vs. Kia Sedona
Both of these family-friendly Kia automobiles are engineered to be dependable, efficient, and fun. The best way to see this for yourself is with a test drive and tour of both options. Until then, you'll be glad to know that the Kia Carnival MPV is motivated by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission for crisp shifts and a smooth ride. Under the hood of the Kia Sedona is a slightly smaller 3.3-liter V-6 that delivers 276 horsepower and mates to an electronically controlled eight-speed automatic overdrive with Sportmatic.
Each of these vehicles is equipped with the same powertrain throughout its respective trim lineup, so you can rely on consistent performance, no matter which model you go for. When it comes to the Kia Carnival and Kia Sedona fuel economy in their base trims, the Carnival does have a higher EPA-estimated MPG compared to the Kia Sedona gas mileage, although the Sedona compensates with a larger fuel tank size.
If you like to tow large watercraft or haul weekend toys, you'll be glad to know that the Carnival MPV LX and Sedona LX each have a standard towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
2022 Carnival MPV vs. 2021 Sedona Styling & Features
The 2022 Carnival MPV LX arrives with an SUV-inspired design that creates a commanding presence on the roads of Kennesaw, Georgia, thanks to its standard LED daytime running lamps, available accessory roof rack, and silver radiator grille. The Sedona LX minivan also helps you stand out from the pack, thanks to a black mesh grille, an optional sunroof, and a rear spoiler.
As you climb inside either cabin here at Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw, you'll be welcomed by convenient features and intuitive technology to help you feel connected and engaged. Both models offer Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, although wireless connectivity is only available in the Carnival. They also contain rear seat entertainment options and multiple audio systems with varying numbers of speakers, like the available 12-speaker Bose® system in the Carnival or the eight-speaker system in the Sedona.
Safety Tech Comparison: Kia Carnival vs. Sedona
When it comes to keeping you and your passengers safe and alert on the roads of Kennesaw, Georgia, you can rely on either car to help do so. The 2022 Kia Carnival MPV EX brings you standard and available safety features, such as Blind Spot Collision Avoidance, Forward Collision Avoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Highway Driving Assist, and Forward and Reverse Park Distance Warning.
The Sedona shares some safety tech with the Carnival, like Driver Attention Warning and Parking Distance Warning Reverse, but it does lack other high-level options, like a Blind Spot View Monitor and a Cabin Camera. Overall, it remains a well-equipped choice, but if you prefer a vehicle with a higher caliber of safety tech, go for the Carnival.
FAQ About the 2022 Kia Carnival vs. 2021 Kia Sedona
Is the 2021 Kia Sedona a reliable car?
In general, the Kia Sedona is deemed a reliable option for drivers seeking a used minivan. Plus, according to reports compiled by Kelley Blue Book®, the 2021 Kia Sedona is recommended by 77% of reviewers, with a 4.3 out of 5 ranking for reliability. Keep in mind that regular service and careful driving habits can also help keep your car running smoothly.
Is Kia discontinuing the Sedona?
Yes, the Kia Sedona has been discontinued at this time. This minivan's last year in production was 2021, and it was replaced by the new Kia Carnival MPV, which remains in production today. Minivan sales had been declining, so the Kia brand developed a modern, SUV-like model with convenient minivan features that is known as an MPV, or multi-purpose vehicle.
Is the Kia Carnival a replacement for Kia Sedona?
Yes, the Kia Carnival replaced the Kia Sedona. However, the Carnival is not a minivan, nor is it completely an SUV; rather, the Kia Carnival is an MPV, or multi-purpose vehicle. Its first year in production was 2022, following the 2021 discontinuation of the Kia Sedona minivan. The models look similar, but the Carnival offers more horsepower, interior space, and better fuel efficiency when compared to the 2021 Sedona.