The Kia Carnival is a minivan produced by Kia Motors.
The Kia Carnival went on sale in 1999, with a standard 5-speed manual and 2.5 L V6 producing 177 hp (132 kW). A 4-speed automatic was optional. In 2001, it managed to outsell the Toyota Tarago, becoming the top-selling minivan in the country.
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Pros:
It fits 5 children - 4 still in child seats really well. We had a DVD installed and its fantastic for driving with the kids. Seat arrangement is very flexible. We have the delux model so the leather seats are easy to keep clean. The motor isn't as purring as previous cars but it is a people mover and for what it is I have been pleasantly surprised a numnber of times.
Cons:
The climate control is hard to work - in fact I still have no idea how to control it in the back. The Air con always turns on with certain functions. Can't fault the motor though.
Overall:
I needed a people mover and for price this was by far my best option. At first I was not keen on Kia at all but it has won me over. Room for the twin pram, 5 kids, 4 child seat, 2 adults and luagge for a week. So it does a great job for what its for. I have the extra air bags fitted too.
There is a couple of blind spots you need to be aware of but once use to them its very easy to drive.
Pros:
Plenty of space, good economy fuel wise, very easy to drive.
Cons:
Little awkward to see out the rear, engine sometimes revs a little high.
Overall:
I picked up my 99 Carnival just under $4000 nearly 2 years ago and despite the car getting a lot bad reviews I am realy pleased with the way drives, handles, etc. The motor in this car is fantastic as it's economy is still very good and is also very reliable after 11 years and 146,000kms. I've had late model Falcons less reliable than this van, so i think i will be holding onto it for sometime. I always say if you treat the car well it will treat you well.
Overall:
We got this as a family car, not being able to afford the more popular brands such as the toyota. This car spent more time at our mechanics then it did with us, as my dad likes to joke we probably funded the mechanic a few good holidays that year. It was very unreliable, always breaking down. We travelled to QLD from NSW and it broke down on the way home and we had to catch a plane back home. We spent way more repairing this car then it was even worth and in the end we had to trade it in as there was no way of selling it privately, you wouldn't wish it upon anyone!
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