Korean-style luxury minivan

Kia Carnival 1.6 SX+ Turbo Hybrid

- By ERIC TIPAN

The Carnival probably isn’t top-of-mind (yet) when your mind is shuffling through luxury minivan choices. But this latest iteration deserves a long, hard look, especially with its hybrid powertrain and eye-popping price.

Speaking of looks, its SUV-ish shape could be why buyers mistake it for something else. Unlike slimmer minivans with more expressive exteriors (with dashing body lines and curves), the latest Carnival is boxy and has a smaller grille. It relies on silver accents and a chrome fin on the C-pillar to create a more businesslike appearance.

As the top-of-the-line grade, this test unit comes exclusively with four-cube LED projection-type headlamps. Its slim daytime running lamps, fog lamps (front and rear), high-mount stop lamps, and rear combination taillights are all LEDs, which are standard across all trim levels. The power tailgate (with walkaway close) and 19-inch wheels are an SX feature, and the tire repair kit comes with all hybrids for weight savings.