The family-friendly daily driver is cooler than ever with the supreme design of the Kia Carnival and the Honda Odyssey. When you’re looking for a family ride that’s pretty and practical, both models are great choices to spice up your commutes and carpools—but which one should you pick?
Our team at Feldman Kia recognizes that buying a new on-road companion is a big decision, and we’re here to help drivers near Novi, Livonia, and Southfield MI find the one that’s the right fit. That’s why we’re proud to offer this Kia Carnival vs. Honda Odyssey comparison!
MAX TOUCHSCREEN SIZE
HORSEPOWER
CARGO CAPACITY BEHIND THIRD ROW
Ready to rev the engine and bolt down the highway with tons of power at your disposal? In addition to providing spacious interiors that can hold the entire family, these models have engines that offer impressive performance specs.
These two family favorites are exciting with their modern designs and capable 3.5L V6 engines that offer up to 262 lb-ft of torque. Torque helps when it comes to efficiency and pulling.
Although these rides are fairly evenly matched in terms of pulling power, the Kia Carnival has a little extra oomph with its maximum 290 horsepower compared to 280 horsepower in the Honda Odyssey. This isn’t a minivan–it’s a Kia MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), a diverse on-road companion for all your driving needs.
Of course, pure power isn’t all these models have to offer. You’ll also find impressive towing capabilities. When you’re heading off on a camping trip with the kids, you’ll easily be able to tow a few recreational items, such as:
- A small camper
- A teardrop trailer
- A small fishing boat
That’s because both the Kia Carnival and the Honda Odyssey have a towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
These models have enough room for your entire family and then some. In addition to pure space, you’ll also find plenty of amenities that will spruce up your drives. Let’s find out which of these rides will provide everyone on board with the most comfort.
If you want to optimize space, both transporters offer nicely sized cabins and the option to fold down seats to make more room:
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|
Kia Carnival
|
Honda Odyssey
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|---|---|---|
| Cargo Volume (behind 3rd row) | 40.2 cu. ft. | 32.8 cu. ft. |
| Headroom (1st/2nd row) | 40.9 in./39.5 in. | 40.7 in./39.5 in. |
| Legroom (1st/2nd row) | 41.1 in./40.5 in. | 40.9 in./40.9 in. |
| Hip Room (1st/2nd row) | 59.8 in./66.4 in. | 58.6 in./64.8 in. |
| Shoulder Room (1st/2nd row) | 64.2 in./63.2 in. | 63.1 in./61.6 in. |
You’ll have great space in either of these family commuters. However, the Kia Carnival triumphs over the Honda Odyssey with more room in the first two rows.
The Kia Carnival also comes in first place when it comes to cargo volume with 40.2 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the third row. The Odyssey offers 32.8 cubic feet behind the third row, which means you’ll have to pack less.
With more room to stretch out and more cargo volume, the Kia Carnival offers extra wiggle room so your kids can always sit comfortably in the spacious cabin while bringing along their favorite items.
When you purchase a new daily driver, you need a suite of technology that will simplify your life so you can focus on what matters. It’s important to stay connected, safe, and entertained on your long drives. Either the Kia Carnival or the Honda Odyssey will help do that.
Both models include easily accessible power sliding doors and a rearview camera, so you don’t have to crane your neck to back up. However, the baseline trim for the Kia Carnival includes more technology than the base model of the Honda Odyssey. Some of the Carnival’s features include:
- Smart Key with push button start, remote start, and immobilizer
- Rear parking sensors
Your new Kia MPV will alert you to obstacles or pedestrians crossing in your path as you back out of a parking lot or driveway so you can maneuver with safety and confidence.
Meanwhile, Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ will keep your kiddos entertained with their favorite tunes. You’ll easily access this compatibility through the Kia’s standard 8-inch touchscreen . You can also upgrade to the available 12.3-inch touchscreen in the Kia.
While the standard display in the Odyssey is also eight inches, this is the only choice for the Honda model. If you want the ability to upgrade to a larger screen, you’ll want to choose the Kia.
If you’re looking for a new set of wheels that’s adaptable to whatever each day brings, the Honda Odyssey is a solid choice, but we have to give the overall win to the Kia Carnival. This versatile family ride has more space and features, making it the superior option.
Are you ready to buy or lease a driving machine that’s both fun and functional? If so and if you live near Novi, Livonia, or Southfield MI, stop by Feldman Kia and get behind the wheel today!
All of the tools you need to move forward with experiencing a new Carnival for yourself are conveniently available right here online.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.