2021 Kia Carnival’s futuristic and versatile interior unveiled

KUALA LUMPUR: With an intent to keep up the people movers’ game strong, the South Korean automaker, Kia, has recently given a significant overhaul to the Carnival minivan. The fourth-generation model draws its design inspiration from the brand’s futuristic SUVs and poses a stylish presence. 

The automaker shared the exterior design of the all-new Carnival a few weeks ago, and now it is the time to have a look inside the cabin.

Based on the ‘Spatial Talents’ design concept, the new Carnival’s interior has gone through massive changes just like the exterior. The Kia designers lent a more upmarket look and feel to the minivan through beige and brown finishings, unpolished wood trim, and three-spoke steering wheel. The all-new dashboard is accented by two high-tech digital displays under one glass, linking the brand’s latest 12.3-inch digital driver instrument panel and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system.

The touch-sensitive buttons are placed around the screen for controlling several infotainment functions. The lower centre console features a similar panel for the climate settings. At the base of the console, there is a shift-by-wire dial for the transmission that replaced the chunky gear lever, which means electronic controls do all the work.

The 2021 Kia Carnival boasts intelligent interior packaging and cabin storage areas, taking its 22-year heritage of spaciousness and versatility to the max. The new minivan features the more interior space, thanks to the longer wheelbase, longer rear overhang, and a more extensive body.

The new Carnival will be offered in three- and four-row seating layouts, with space for 7, 9, or 11 occupants. The famous 7-seat configuration houses reclining ‘captain’s chairs’ for second-row occupants, with adjustable backrests, armrests, and leg rests, a new storage drawer in the rear console with a tray for storing phones or tablets and USB charging ports mounted on the back of front seats.

Besides these, the new Carnival features dual-sunroof setup, multi-zone climate control, and power sliding rear doors.

The details about the mechanical bits are likely to uncover in the coming weeks, before launching in South Korea in the third quarter of the year. In Malaysia, the new Carnival is expected to arrive by 2022.

Also read: Kia’s new iMT retains driver engagement and enhances fuel efficiency