Craig Conover, Daily Herald

It took a trip out to Denver to our annual Rocky Mountain Automotive Media Christmas Party for us to get an opportunity to enjoy the new 2024 Kia Carnival minivan. As we picked up the new Carnival at the Denver Airport parking, we had an inkling that this would be a great way to get home the next day.

As we got into the new 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige at the airport, we knew this wasn’t going to be just another drive — it was an experience waiting to unfold. Having the opportunity to take this minivan on a couple of different outings, one from Denver and another from Provo to Ogden for a Christmas party, allowed us to fully appreciate the comfort, versatility and cutting-edge features that the Carnival SX Prestige brought to the table.

Denver to home: A reunion of comfort and connectivity

Our adventure really began in the bustling city of Denver the morning after our Christmas party, with the promise of a smooth journey back home to Springville. With everything loaded into the minivan, we were set for a comfortable ride in the spacious cabin of the Carnival.

Exterior and interior design: A stylish presence

As the sun came up over the great plains east of Denver, the Carnival, in its Aurora Ceramic Silver exterior, exuded an undeniable aura of sophistication, with its bold tiger-nose grille, sleek LED headlights and distinctive contours hinting at the modern design philosophy that Kia has embraced. It was clear that the Carnival was not built to be just a family hauler — it was a statement on wheels.

Inside, the sense of luxury continued to impress us. The cabin felt more like a first-class lounge than a minivan. The VIP Lounge Seats in the second row provided a fine experience with an elevated seating position and were also heated and cooled along with the fact that they would recline with foot rests, making them the best seats in the house, if you will.

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The dual sunroofs added an extra touch of openness, letting anyone in the back enjoy the sunshine or starry night sky during a family drive.

Comfort and connectivity: A cabin of delight

Being aficionados of technology, we were delighted by the UVO Link infotainment system. The 12.3-inch touch screen was not just a command center for the minivan but a portal to a world of connectivity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration ensured seamless access to our favorite playlists and podcasts for the journey home.

The tri-zone automatic climate control system maintained a perfect temperature, and the heated and ventilated front seats kept us warm and comfortable as we crossed the continental divide in early December.

In the second and third rows, USB ports and available wireless charging stations would be a huge addition for the entire family on any adventure!

Performance and handling: The joy of driving

Leaving Denver behind, the Carnival’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine showcased its prowess, effortlessly gliding up and over the Colorado Rockies. The eight-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth shifts, while the responsive handling made every twist and turn of the mountainous terrain a breeze. The Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control ensured a stress-free drive, adapting to the changing speed limits seamlessly.

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As we arrived at our home after a daylong steady drive, the Smart Power Liftgate with hands-free functionality proved to be a game-changer, especially with our hands full of luggage and holiday goodies.

Provo to Ogden: A festive expedition

A few days later, the Carnival was put to the test once again as Craig and his co-workers embarked on a Christmas party road trip from Provo to Ogden. This time, four of Craig’s co-workers joined in for a merry ride filled with laughter and holiday cheer as they used practically every available seat in the Kia.

Versatility and spaciousness: Accommodating the festivities

The Stargazing Interior Lighting added a festive ambiance as we loaded up the Carnival with people and things required for our festive Christmas luncheon in Ogden. The Slide-Flex Seating in the second row allowed for easy access to the third row and became an obsession for Craigs sister Christi as she discovered the reclining feature included, thus showcasing the minivan’s versatility in adapting to our ever-changing needs.

The expansive cargo space proved invaluable as we stowed away gifts and a variety of holiday treats. Whether it was ample legroom or the flexibility to configure the seats, the Carnival effortlessly accommodated our dynamic party preparations.

Safety and peace of mind: A priority on the road

As we navigated the journey north, the Carnival’s safety features came to the forefront. The Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist acted as vigilant co-pilots, providing an additional layer of safety on the highway.

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Craig, with his meticulous attention to detail, praised the Highway Driving Assist system, which helped maintain a safe following distance and centered the vehicle in its lane. The Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Cyclist Detection was an added reassurance, especially during the bustling holiday city traffic.

Conclusion: Unforgettable journeys in the 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige

For both of our trips, the 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige proved itself as more than just a mode of transportation; it was an experience facilitator. From the luxurious interior to the advanced safety features, every detail was meticulously designed to enhance our journey.

The Carnival’s ability to seamlessly transition between a comfortable family cruiser and a festive party wagon speaks volumes about its versatility. It’s not just a minivan; it’s a statement of style, a haven of comfort and a symbol of modern connectivity.

As our week with the Carnival came to an end after our memorable holiday journeys, it left an indelible mark with us. The 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a companion that transforms ordinary trips into extraordinary adventures.

Base price: $46,300

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Destination charge: $1,365

Price as driven: $49,480