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The 2024 Kia Carnival stays true to its roots in terms of size and presence, continuing to be a massive MPV. Measuring 5,155mm in length, 1,995mm in width, and 1,775mm in height, its dimensions are only slightly larger than its predecessor, contributing to its imposing road presence.

The design has evolved subtly, with a longer bonnet, a shorter front overhang, and a longer rear overhang, giving the vehicle a more SUV-like stance. The 'Tiger Nose' grille is wide, paired with striking LED headlamps that are pushed to the far edges of the nose, enhancing the front-end design. Vertical 'ice cube' LED projector elements, along with slim vertical LEDs at the rear, contribute to a modern, stylish look.

Although the Carnival still features exposed rails for the sliding rear doors, which remain a design drawback, its clean lines and brushed metal accents add some sophistication. The powered tailgate has been widened, providing easier access to the spacious 627-litre boot, which can expand to a cavernous 2,900 litres with the seats folded down. Overall, while the changes are more evolutionary than revolutionary, they align with Kia's modern design language.

Under the hood, the 2024 Kia Carnival retains a 2.2-litre diesel engine, but it's an all-new aluminium block unit, a shift from the cast-iron block used previously. This engine delivers 193hp and 441 Nm of torque, slightly down from its predecessor, but still adequate for the Carnival's highway cruising nature. The engine is paired with an 8-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, which is smooth but not particularly quick to downshift, especially during overtakes.

Despite its large size, the Carnival remains a stable performer on highways, delivering a 0-100kph time of 10.7 seconds. The shift to an aluminium engine has reduced weight, but at the cost of increased engine noise, which feels out of place in a vehicle of this price range. The fuel economy is respectable for such a large vehicle, with a rated 14.85kpl by ARAI, and a real-world figure closer to 10.9kpl under mixed driving conditions.

The cabin of the 2024 Kia Carnival has received a significant upgrade, with a clean, modern design that elevates the overall feel of luxury.

The dashboard has a horizontal layout, accented by ambient lighting and slim AC vents that enhance the minimalist aesthetic. A 12.3-inch twin-screen setup for the infotainment and instrument cluster brings a tech-savvy vibe, though touch sensitivity could be smoother.

The gear lever has been replaced by a rotary dial, which adds a premium touch, while the overall material quality is excellent, featuring soft-touch surfaces and metallic accents.

The second row is where the Carnival truly shines. The Limousine+ variant comes with two large captain’s chairs in the second row that can be slid forward, backward, and sideways for added flexibility. These seats also offer powered recline and ottoman functions, though the controls can be awkward to reach.

The second row benefits from its own sunroof, manual sunshades, and climate controls. The third row is spacious enough for two adults, though tight for three. Kia has thoughtfully included a deep underfloor storage area to maximize space.

Kia has made safety a priority with the 2024 Carnival, equipping it with Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) capabilities, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking. The Carnival also comes with eight airbags as standard, along with a heads-up display and powered sliding doors for added convenience.

When it comes to comfort, the Carnival doesn’t disappoint. The ride is cushioned by 235/60 R18 tyres, which strike a balance between comfort and stability. The front seats are large, ventilated, and come with 12-way power adjustment for the driver, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. The Carnival offers a solid high-speed ride, though some harshness can be felt over larger bumps.

The 2024 Kia Carnival’s driving dynamics are greatly aided by the new electric power steering, which makes this large MPV surprisingly easy to maneuver at low speeds and during tight turns. The EPS system offers a good level of precision and confidence on highways, making lane changes feel secure, while also reducing the effort required in city driving. However, compared to the older hydraulic unit, the new EPS doesn’t bring a dramatic improvement, but it aligns with modern automotive trends.

The Carnival's suspension setup offers a stable and comfortable ride, especially for rear-seat passengers, which is crucial for a vehicle of this nature. Larger bumps do intrude slightly into the cabin, but overall, the Carnival handles uneven roads with composure. Despite its size, the Carnival remains relatively easy to drive, making it a versatile option for both city commuting and long-distance road trips.