2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2023 Kia Carnival

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was a crossover SUV that offered a blend of practicality and style, appealing to those who desired the look of an SUV without the higher costs and lower fuel efficiency of larger models. It featured a light restyle with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages like the Redline Edition. The RS trim, in particular, showcased blacked-out trim and dark gray 20-inch wheels, making it one of the more attractive options in its segment. Inside, the Traverse RS boasted black leather upholstery with contrast stitching and a logically laid-out interior, though it was marred by the use of hard plastic surfaces in some areas.

The 2023 Kia Carnival, in contrast, stood out with its distinctive style and upscale image, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a minivan with a touch of luxury. The SX Prestige trim featured high-tech front and rear lighting, an intricate grille, and decorative roof pillar trim, though the black alloy wheels were less imaginative. Inside, the Carnival impressed with dual instrumentation and infotainment screens, dual power sunroofs, and quality materials that elevated its interior. The robust transmission shifter added a sense of quality, and the overall design made it feel more like an SUV than a traditional minivan.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It offered a tow rating of 5,000 pounds and various driving modes, including Tow/Haul, Snow, and Off-Road. The V6 engine provided adequate power, though it could whine under acceleration. The Traverse's fuel economy was rated at 20 mpg combined, with our test vehicle achieving 20.9 mpg. On the road, it offered a firm yet compliant ride, though it was prone to scraping on larger road anomalies. The Traverse excelled on highways, though road and wind noise were noticeable.

The 2023 Kia Carnival featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and driving modes like Eco, Normal, Smart, and Sport. While lacking AWD and a hybrid option, the Carnival's V6 engine delivered ample power, and the transmission operated smoothly. The brakes, however, showed signs of fading during mountain descents. The Carnival's ride quality was firm and sporty with a single occupant, but softened with a full load. Overall, it was satisfying to drive, though the Honda Odyssey offered a more athletic experience.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven with captain's chairs in the RS trim, though this limited its capacity compared to trims with a second-row bench seat. It featured power-adjustable and heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and triple-zone climate control. The Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated third-row access. The Traverse's interior provided generous space, though the third-row seats were less comfortable than some rivals. Cargo space was ample, with 23 cubic feet behind the third row and a maximum of 98.2 cubic feet. Hidden storage compartments added convenience.

The 2023 Kia Carnival's interior was designed to feel more like an SUV, with a lower driving position and a center console similar to those found in SUVs. It offered three types of upholstery, with genuine leather in the SX Prestige trim. The Carnival featured a three-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The VIP Lounge Seats in the SX Prestige trim were luxurious but limited cargo space to 86.9 cubic feet. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the Carnival provided ample cargo capacity with 40.2 cubic feet behind the third row.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, depending on the trim. It offered Bluetooth connectivity for two smartphones, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system, though it was not particularly impressive. The voice recognition system was effective, and the digital rearview mirror and surround-view camera enhanced visibility.

The 2023 Kia Carnival SX Prestige featured 12.3-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment screens, offering a sophisticated presentation. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot. The Bose audio system was mediocre, and the voice recognition system had limitations. Additional tech features included Quiet Mode, Passenger Talk, and Passenger View with Night Vision. The optional rear-seat entertainment system was sophisticated but underutilized by teenagers.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional safety features were available, such as adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received top "Good" ratings in most IIHS collision tests, though it was rated "Acceptable" in a new side-impact test.

The 2023 Kia Carnival offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with standard forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The rear-seat reminder system and Safe Exit System were notable features. The EX trim added Junction Turning Detection and Highway Driving Assist, while the SX trim included a surround-view camera and Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Carnival was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for 2022, though its standard headlights received a Poor rating.