The new generation of Kia’s minivan has just been redesigned and besides the new design, it also has a new name. Instead of Sedona, it now comes as the Carnival, which is the name that Kia has been using on the international market for a long time. For the next year, we don’t expect to see bigger changes. Some sources speculate about the possibility to see the familiar nameplate back but we know very well that the chances to see the 2023 Kia Sedona are minimal. Instead, the company will continue with the Carnival name, as well as with the familiar design.
The new generation of Kia’s pickup is great in many ways. We like the well-designed cabin, as well as the comfortable and supportive seats. Furthermore, the cargo area is quite spacious, while the list of standard equipment is pretty long as well. The new Carnival is easy to drive and also comes with a pretty capable V6 engine. All in all, we have no doubt that the next year’s model will be a typical carryover model.
2023 Kia Sedona Design
Design-wise, the 2023 Kia Sedona, or Carnival, will continue in the same way. We are about to see the same layout, which has been completely redesigned last year. The new generation brings significant improvements, especially in terms of ride quality. It is lighter, with a lower center of gravity, which are the things that make it more agile and easier to drive.
Visually, there is a completely new design, based on Kia’s latest design language. Of course, the overall shape comes in a typical minivan manner. Still, we have to say that the new front face, which closely resembles the Sorento crossover, looks very appealing. It’s also worth mentioning that the new generation has a 1.2-inch longer wheelbase, as well as bigger overall dimensions.
Interior
The main benefit that comes from bigger dimensions comes in the form of interior space. The new 2023 Kia Sedona/Carnival is pretty impressive in this aspect. Of course, the front seats are massive and supportive, but other seats aren’t less impressive at all. Also, both the second and the third row offers plenty of space, enough to accommodate adults with ease.
The cargo area offers impressive numbers. You may count on about 40.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 86.9 cubic feet behind the second and 145.1 cubic feet of the total cargo volume. Furthermore, it’s great to know that the third row folds flat into the floor, while the second row can be removed completely.
Besides plenty of room, this cabin also looks very attractive. The dashboard is modern and full of tech features. Also, materials and build quality are on a pretty high level as well. Furthermore, we like the good sound insulation.
Features
As we are talking about the second production year, we don’t expect to see any bigger changes in terms of standard and available equipment. Therefore, all models should come standard with goodies like an 8-inch touch screen, a six-speaker stereo, HD Radio, Bluetooth, seven USB ports, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Among upgrades, expect to find a 12.3-inch touch screen, navigation, an eight-speaker audio system, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, satellite radio, additional USB ports, wireless device charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The list of optional features should also include things like dual sunroofs, tri-zone automatic climate control, an in-vehicle intercom, and a passenger-view camera.
When it comes to safety, all models should come standard with goodies like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, rear cross traffic alert etc.
2023 Kia Sedona Engines
Changes shouldn’t come under the hood either. So, all models will continue with the same 3.5-liter V6 engine, which puts out around 290 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. That’s enough power to move this minivan with ease. The acceleration is pretty good, as well as the overall performance. The engine comes in pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which is smooth and does a pretty fine job.
All models feature front-wheel drive, while the average fuel economy goes around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. That’s OK for the class.
2023 Kia Sedona Release Date and Price
Since there are no significant changes to come, we presume that the launch date will be scheduled for the last quarter of the year. Base models should go around 33.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica etc.