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2022 Kia Carnival Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

2022 Kia Carnival Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: LX vs EX vs SX and Prestige
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

Compare the 2022 Kia Carnival Trims - LX vs EX vs SX and Prestige. What is the difference between them?

Kia has taken an exciting new direction with their all-new Carnival model, which functions as a crossover between an SUV and minivan. The exterior of this Multi Purpose Vehicle showcases sliding rear doors on both sides while its frame resembles that of the trusty SUV – perfect for customers who need something practical yet stylish! Powering it is a reliable 3.5L V6 engine producing 290 hp and 262 lb.-ft torque paired to front wheel drive only so you can be sure you’ll get where ever your journey takes you in efficient style.

As one would expect from a three-row vehicle, it has plenty of room inside its cabin and plenty of convenient features. Five trims are available, all featuring modern components. This overview will give those interested in learning more about how the trims differ from each other.

Compare the Carnival LX vs LX Seat Package. What is the difference?

From an aesthetic perspective, these two trims are quite similar to each other. However, the LX Seat Package offers some additional features: Flare Red and Deep Chroma Blue are two exterior color choices; additionally, two interior color schemes can be chosen: Off-Black or a two-tone Saddle Brown/Off-Black style; however, for those on the LX only, Off-Black remains available as the default interior hue.

The LX offers passengers cloth seats that are soft and comfortable; however, the LX Seat Package adds SynTex upholstery for an elevated level of sophistication in the cabin. Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob add to this stylish look as well.

The LX Seat Package trim features a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with two-way power lumbar support, making it easier to get comfortable during long drives and helping reduce fatigue. Furthermore, the heated front seats make this an even more desirable option for those who enjoy staying warm and cozy on long journeys.

Another big difference is that the LX has room for seven and the LX Seat Package can accommodate eight total people. For some customers, this could be something that leads them to choose the LX Seat Package trim.

The two trims share many of the same features, so one will have to decide whether the mostly cosmetic upgrades in the LX Seat Package are worth the slightly higher cost. Both trims have a full array of driver-assist technologies. They include lane keeping assist, automatic high beams, a rear view monitor with parking guidance, driver attention warning, and forward collision alert. The forward collision alert system can sense vehicles as well as pedestrians, so it can be very useful on busy streets.

Compare the Carnival LX Seat Package vs EX. What is the difference?

Moving up to the EX trim is associated with getting several upgrades. First, the EX rides on 19-inch wheels instead of 17-inch ones. Another exterior upgrade is a smart power tailgate. This type of tailgate can be so convenient to use when loaded down with groceries, bags, or other items. All someone has to do is to simply stand behind the tailgate with the Smart Key, and the tailgate will open automatically.

Kia Carnival's LX and LX Seat Package feature an impressive eight-inch touchscreen, while the EX boasts a showstopping 12.3-inch touchscreen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth as standard features for convenience. What really sets it apart? An additional two speakers to crank up your favorite tunes plus wireless charging capabilities -all in one incredible package sure to turn heads.

The EX offers a wealth of modern convenience features, including tri-zone automatic temperature control so everyone on board can stay comfortable. It's also equipped with advanced safety technology designed to protect cyclists and pedestrians, such as forward collision avoidance-assist and parking distance warning monitors in both the front and back. For an extra layer of protection, its adaptive cruise control will adjust speed according to traffic conditions or even come to a complete stop if necessary; plus it has Highway Driving Assist that controls steering when taking curves or highways.

Finally, the EX is available in a different shade of blue than the LX Seat Package is. The LX Seat Package can come in a Deep Chroma Blue, while the EX is available in a slightly lighter hue called Astra Blue.

Compare the EX vs SX Trim Levels. What is the difference?

While the EX looks refined, the SX is even more upscale. Customers can have a choice of the Off-Black seat trim or the two-tone Tuscan Umber and Off-Black. Tuscan Umber is a richer color than the Saddle Brown of the EX.

Rather than having silver accents on its exterior, the SX has satin chrome ones. Satin chrome is on the skid plates, bumper, tailgate, and C-Pillar. The front grille has a matte chrome coating, too. To contrast with those chrome finishes, the SX has 19-inch gloss black wheels.

The SX's exterior is enhanced in other ways. It has LED front fog lights and power-folding outside mirrors. Its roof rails may be of interest to those who plan on strapping cargo on the top of their Carnivals. All trims of the Kia Carnival have sound-absorbing front windshields, but the SX is upgraded with sound-absorbing front door windows. This makes the cabin more peaceful.

The SX offers an exceptional level of convenience with its rear-seat entertainment system consisting of two screens, allowing passengers to mirror their Apple and Android devices. Further streamlining the experience are eight USB charging outlets - located in both front seats as well as second and third row seating areas – making it easy for everyone to stay connected during travel. Across all trims, this state-of-the art technology ensures that a long journey is made worry free! Another thing that the SX has that the EX does not have is a pair of 115-volt power inverters.

The SX is the perfect choice for safety-conscious drivers, boasting a surround view monitor and impressive parking collision-avoidance assist. It's not just safe; it also offers luxurious comfort with heated and ventilated seats in the front that can be adjusted eight different ways based on individual preferences - something you'll only find in this model! For added convenience, even the front passenger seat has power adjustability as standard equipment. Make sure to check out all these great features today so your driving experience will feel safer than ever before.

Compare the SX vs SX Prestige Trims. What is the difference?

The SX Prestige is the trim to get if anyone wants to treat him/herself to the best of what Kia has to offer. This premium vehicle has not one but two sunroofs. Both of them are power operated and can either tilt or slide open. Having two sunroofs gives the cabin a feeling of openness, and it can be a great way to let in fresh air.

One might notice a few other exterior differences. The SX Prestige is the only trim to have full LED headlights and LED rear combination lamps. These LEDs look quite modern and can be very effective at their jobs.

Inside the cabin, the trend continues. The SX Prestige comes standard with LED interior lighting, and it's the only type of Carnival to have leather seats. Those seats are embossed and perforated.

The second-row of the SX Prestige gives passengers a luxury experience. Kia has put in "VIP" lounge seats in this trim. This pair of seats has wing-out headrests and leg extensions. This means, though, that the SX Prestige has room for seven instead of eight.

A heated steering wheel can make it easier to stay warm in the winter. The auto-dimming rearview mirror can be useful at night, and it has HomeLink technology so that it can communicate with garage doors, security systems, and a few other systems one may have at home.

The technology package on the top-of-the-line Carnival trim is impressive. It comes with 12 Bose speakers. In contrast, the SX and EX have eight speakers, and the first two trims only have six speakers. Another element that people will appreciate is the 12.3-inch screen behind the steering wheel of the SX Prestige. It keeps drivers aware of how they're doing, and since it's an LCD display, it's easy to read. The other trims all have 4.2-inch computer displays.

With the addition of a Blind View Monitor in the SX Prestige trim, your driving experience is taken up to another level. When you activate your turn signal and look into your instrument cluster, you'll get an enhanced view with a live video feed directly from one of its side mirrors - giving added reassurance as you maneuver on busy highways or merge safely onto new lanes.

Final Thoughts

Given all that the 2022 Kia Carnival has to offer, it can difficult to decide which trim would be best. They all have the same powerful engine, advanced safety features, and comfortable seating. However, the number and quality of their amenities varies. Obviously, each customer will have to weigh the benefits of each trim along with the cost.

For drivers seeking a combination of advanced technology and safety, the Kia Carnival EX stands out from its peers. Loaded with features like a larger touchscreen, wireless charging capability and satellite radio navigation—often unheard-of in budget models - this model is truly one for those who desire luxury but also require practicality. Additionally it offers an impressive suite of safety equipment as well as smart power tailgate and19 inch wheels to further enhance this driving experience; no matter which way you look at it there's something here for everyone!