While Kia is readying the facelift version of 4th-gen Carnival for international markets, it’s the 3rd-gen version that’s on sale in India
Kia had showcased the 4th-gen Carnival at the 2023 Auto Expo. It is expected to be launched in India later this year or by April 2024. Meanwhile in international markets, Kia is working to introduce the facelift version of 4th-gen Carnival. Latest spy shots of the 2024 Kia Carnival facelift are credited to Autospy.
Kia Carnival facelift spotted
Kia Carnival facelift is expected to get mild to moderate levels of cosmetic enhancements. Some of these appear to be based on the design language used for upcoming Kia EV9. Engine options for Kia Carnival facelift will be the same as earlier.
Although heavily camouflaged, 2024 Kia Carnival facelift still reveals its lighting setup and grille design. While the grille pattern seems largely the same as earlier, the headlamps are vertically stacked. LED DRLs now come in a sleek L-shaped format, flanking the bonnet and the headlamps.
It is not clear if fog lamps have also been retouched, as that section is barely visible. Shape of the lower grille appears more rectangular, as compared to the slightly curved design seen with current model.
Side profile appears largely the same and there are no changes to the alloy wheels. Shape of the wheel arches and door panelling remains unchanged. At rear, the tail lamp design copies the basic format used for the headlamps and DRLs. Tail lamps are expected to be connected with a light bar. Outline of the rear spoiler, tailgate and bumper seem to match that of the current model.
While 4th-gen Carnival already has a majestic look and feel, the updates introduced with the facelift version further improve the MPV’s street presence. It comes across as sportier and in line with contemporary tastes and preferences. Kia Carnival facelift will have refreshed interiors and is expected to get some new features as well. Prices will be increased accordingly.
Engine options remain unchanged
In its home market South Korea, 4th-gen Kia Carnival is offered with engine options of 3.5-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel. These will be carried forward with the facelift version. The petrol unit makes 294 PS of max power and 355 Nm of peak torque. The diesel engine churns out 194 PS and 441 Nm. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. In India, the 3rd-gen Carnival has the 2.2-litre diesel unit. When the 4th-gen Carnival is launched in India, the same engine could be carried forward.
4th-gen Kia Carnival is an epitome of luxury and users in India will be able to access a comprehensive range of premium features. Some of the key highlights include dual sunroof, integrated 12.3 inch instrument cluster and 12.3 inch infotainment screen, electronic shift dial, 220v inverter, built-in dashcam, smart power sliding door and rear seat voice recognition.
