Kia has always been known for its affordable and reliable vehicles, and nowhere is this more apparent than in its 2024 Carnival MPV and 2024 Kia Telluride. But which is right for you? Each caters to different needs, but both are suitable and affordable for every buyer. If you don’t know which is best for you, we’ve got all the details you’ll need below!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The Kia Carnival MPV is a minivan while the Kia Telluride is a crossover SUV
- Both have powerful engines: the Carnival has great gas mileage while the Telluride is the strongest tow
- The Kia Carnival is a more comfortable ride and the Telluride adjusts to various terrain
- Both are packed with safety features
Kia Carnival and Telluride Engine and Performance Power
Let’s get down to business and chat about engine power. A 3.5L V6 engine powers the Carnival MPV, delivering an impressive 290 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque and features eight-speed automatic transmission. As a minivan, its Eco-Drive Mode ensures better mileage and fuel economy. It can tow up 3,500 pounds, and its 4-wheel disc anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps you deliver heavy loads safely in most driving conditions.
The Telluride depends on a 3.8L V6 engine generating an intense 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It, too, features an eight-speed automatic transmission to make your journey an extremely smooth and safe one. The Telluride, one of Kia’s most popular SUVs also features four separate drive modes: Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Smart. (Snow mode is featured in all-wheel drive trims.) The Telluride can tow up to 5,500 pounds.
The Telluride’s All-Wheel Drive system monitors driving conditions via electronic sensors, distributing just the right power to the wheels for control and traction when tackling extreme weather conditions. Drivers can activate Snow mode or the center-locking differential for even greater traction.
Kia Carnival MPV vs. Telluride Trim Options
The Carnival and Telluride offer plenty of trim options to meet every budget. No matter your desired driving experience, you can find something in either vehicle. Kia Carnival trims are priced as follows:
- LX: $33,600
- LX Seat Package: $35,600
- EX: $39,100
- SX: $42,300
- SX Prestige: $46,700
The Telluride has double the trims at the following starting MSRPs:
- LX: $36,190
- S: $38,090
- EX: $41,790
- EX X-Line: $46,085
- SX:$45,990
- SX X-Line: $49,485
- SX X-Pro: $50,485
- SX Prestige: $50,890
- SX Prestige X-Line: $52,385
- SX Prestige X-Pro: $53,385
Feature Similarities and Differences
Both the Carnival and Telluride have similar features to make your journey more comfortable, easy and, most importantly, safe. Among the systems they share are:
- Blind Spot Detection
- Lane Departure Warning
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go
In addition, the Carnival has many advanced features to help you move in style and comfort. They include:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Passenger view cabin camera
- SynTex seating trim
- Talk cabin intercom
- A 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen system with Kia Connect and SiriusXM radio and navigation
The Telluride experience is like none other. The crossover features its own luxurious bells and whistles in the following details:
- Dual sunroofs
- Front power seating
- Driver's memory seat with 4-way lumbar adjustment
- Nappa Leather seating trim
- Harmon Kardon stereo system
Which Should You Choose?
Still having trouble deciding between a Kia Carnival and Kia Telluride? We understand why—both combine luxury, safety and affordably in much the same way, though they have much different features.
The Telluride is more of a rugged workhorse, while the Carnival MPV is more focused on comfort. Choice, of course, is subjective. The only way to know which is the best choice for you is to stop by Alan Jay Kia and test drive both!