Choosing a new car in India is a significant decision. You think about your budget, what safety features are a must, how much monthly maintenance will cost, whether it has the latest tech, and how good the company service is. For families and businesses looking for unmatched space, luxury, and comfort, there is one vehicle that stands out in the premium MPV segment: the Kia Carnival Limousine Plus. This luxurious people mover from Kia has carved a niche for itself, promising an executive experience on wheels. Let us dive deep into what makes the Kia Carnival Limousine Plus a compelling choice for Indian car buyers.
Main Highlights
Engine Specifications
- Engine Type: 2.2-litre CRDi VGT Diesel Engine
- Displacement: 2199 cc
- Max Power: 200 PS at 3800 rpm
- Max Torque: 440 Nm at 1500-2750 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed Sportmatic Automatic Transmission
- The powerful diesel engine ensures smooth acceleration and effortless highway cruising, making long journeys comfortable.
Design Overview
The Kia Carnival Limousine Plus boasts a commanding presence that blends SUV aesthetics with MPV practicality.
- Exterior Design:
- It has a bold, imposing stance with Kia's signature Tiger Nose grille.
- Full LED headlamps and tail lamps give it a premium look.
- Chrome accents on the grille, door handles, and window lines enhance its luxurious appeal.
- The dual-tone alloy wheels add to its sophisticated appearance.
- Practical power sliding doors make entry and exit incredibly easy, especially in tight parking spots.
- Interior Design:
- Step inside, and you are greeted by an expansive cabin.
- The Limousine Plus variant is known for its luxurious 7-seater configuration with VIP Nappa leather captain seats in the second row, complete with leg rests.
- High-quality materials, soft-touch surfaces, and a dual-tone beige and black interior theme create an airy and upscale ambiance.
- The driver-focused cockpit is ergonomic and well-laid out.
Key Features
The Kia Carnival Limousine Plus is packed with features designed for comfort, convenience, and entertainment.
- 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Kia Connect (formerly UVO Connect) advanced connected car technology
- Dual Electric Sunroof for an airy cabin experience
- 360-degree Surround View Camera for easy parking and maneuvering
- Wireless Smartphone Charger
- Tri-zone Automatic Climate Control ensuring individual comfort for all passengers
- Smart Pure Air Purifier with virus and bacteria protection
- One-Touch Smart Power Tailgate
- VIP Captain Seats with Leg Support for ultimate second-row comfort
- Rear Seat Entertainment screens for second-row passengers
- Front Ventilated Seats for added comfort in hot Indian weather
- Power Adjustable Driver Seat
What is the Ground Clearance of Kia Carnival Limousine Plus?
What is the Boot Space of Kia Carnival Limousine Plus?
- With all three rows up: 540 litres
- With the third row folded down: 1624 litres
- With both second and third rows folded: 2759 litres (a truly massive space)
What are the Dimensions of Kia Carnival Limousine Plus?
- Length: 5115 mm
- Width: 1985 mm
- Height: 1755 mm
- Wheelbase: 3060 mm
Powertrain Options
Currently, the Kia Carnival in India is offered with a single, highly refined powertrain option: the 2.2-litre CRDi VGT Diesel engine paired exclusively with an 8-speed Sportmatic Automatic Transmission. This combination is tuned for a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, ideal for highway cruising and city commutes.
Safety Features
Kia has equipped the Carnival Limousine Plus with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect its occupants.
- 6 Airbags (Front, Side, and Curtain) for all-around protection
- Anti-lock Braking System ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution EBD
- Electronic Stability Control ESC
- Hill-start Assist Control HAC
- Front and Rear Parking Sensors
- Traction Control System TCS
- Brake Assist BA
- Cornering Brake Control CBC
- Vehicle Stability Management VSM
- Roll-over Mitigation ROM
- High-Strength Steel Body Structure
NCAP Rating Table
The Kia Carnival sold in India is based on the fourth-generation global model.
Rating Agency |
Rating |
Details |
Bharat NCAP |
Not Yet Rated |
The current generation Kia Carnival Limousine Plus has not yet been tested by Bharat NCAP. |
Global NCAP |
Not Yet Rated |
The current generation Kia Carnival has not yet been tested by Global NCAP under their latest protocols relevant to the Indian market. |
Rivals of Kia Carnival Limousine Plus
While the Kia Carnival truly sits in a niche, its primary rivals and cross-shopped vehicles in the Indian market include:
- Toyota Innova Hycross (top-end variants)
- Toyota Innova Crysta (diesel variants)
- High-end SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster (for those seeking large family vehicles)
- In some aspects, even the upcoming Hyundai Alcazar (though smaller) or premium C-SUVs.
How is the Car? Pros & Cons
The Kia Carnival Limousine Plus offers a unique blend of features and capabilities.
Pros Advantages
- Unmatched Space and Comfort: Best-in-class cabin space, especially for second-row passengers with VIP captain seats.
- Premium and Luxurious Feel: High-quality interiors, advanced features, and sophisticated design contribute to a top-notch experience.
- Feature-Rich Cabin: From dual sunroofs to rear entertainment and connected car tech, it has almost everything you could ask for.
- Powerful and Refined Diesel Engine: The 2.2L diesel engine offers ample power and torque, paired with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission.
- Practicality: Power sliding doors, vast boot space, and flexible seating configurations make it incredibly versatile for families or executive transport.
- Smooth Ride Quality: It soaks up bumps well, providing a comfortable ride even on longer journeys.
Cons Disadvantages
- High Price Point: Being a premium offering, it is significantly more expensive than traditional MPVs.
- Large Dimensions: Its sheer size can make maneuvering and parking in crowded city spaces challenging.
- Fuel Efficiency: While decent for its size and power, it might not be as fuel-efficient as smaller diesel cars.
- Single Powertrain Option: No petrol or hybrid option is available, which might deter some buyers.
- Limited Market: Its niche positioning means fewer direct rivals, but also a smaller target audience.
- Ground Clearance: While 180mm is decent, some very rough Indian roads might still require caution.
Conclusion
The Kia Carnival Limousine Plus is more than just a car; it is an experience. It caters to a discerning buyer who prioritizes space, luxury, and comfort above all else. If you are looking for the ultimate family vehicle for long road trips, or if you need a comfortable and feature-packed executive shuttle, the Carnival Limousine Plus delivers in spades. It might have a higher entry price and large dimensions to contend with, but what it offers in return – a blend of premium features, refined performance, and unparalleled passenger comfort – makes it a truly compelling package.
Before making your final decision, we highly recommend taking the Kia Carnival Limousine Plus for a test drive. Experience its spacious cabin, smooth ride, and advanced features firsthand. It might just be the perfect premium MPV you have been searching for.