Just landed in New Zealand, the new eight-seater Carnival Limited now features a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, replacing the 3.8-litre V6.
While the new engine is smaller, power has risen more than 12% to 202kW @ 6300rpm, from 179kW @ 6000rpm – torque has remained around the same.
Kia says the new engine also improves economy, with 15% improvement now returning 10.6L/100km during combined city and highway driving (against 12.8L/100km previously).
That improvement is partly due to the use of new technology in the Lambda II engine, such as the intake and exhaust dual continuous variable valve timing system, a slightly higher compression ratio and a reduction in weight in some of the components.
Also assisting economy is the new six-speed sequential shift automatic transmission utilising technology derived from the Kia Sorento R, which provides smoother and quieter gear changes. It’s also more compact and lighter than the 5-speed shifter it replaces.
Thanks to the increased power and new transmission, the new V6 Carnival Limited now accelerates from zero to 100kph in 8.4 seconds.
“With the new 3.5L petrol engine the environmental concern of customers has been listened to with both petrol and diesel engines now providing enhanced environmental performance. We expect that the 3.5L V6 will build the Carnival’s appeal with its improved performance and economy,” says Todd McDonald, General Manager of Kia Motors New Zealand.
“The difference on the road is very noticeable compared to the previous 3.8-litre model, in refinement and quietness, as well as in performance.”
Exterior changes on the 2010 Carnival are the ‘Tiger Nose’ grille from the Kia family, new 17” multi-spoke polished alloy wheels, LED side repeater lights incorporated into the side door mirrors, and reversing camera in the rear view mirror.
All three seat rows have leather-upholstered seats that can accommodate eight people. The rear-most seats split 60/40 and can be folded away into the floor to be completely hidden. Each of the three centre row command-style seats can fold forward or be removed and trundled away on built-in wheels.
Other features on the Carnival include electrically powered sliding side doors and opening tailgate, a triple zone climate air system, and electric sunroof. Entertainment is provided by a sound system including an in-dash 6-CD player, MP3 and 8 Hi-Fi speakers.
The 2010 Kia Carnival Limited V6 goes on sale for a driveaway price of $51,990, which includes road tax, 12-month registration, Warrant of Fitness, full tank of fuel, 1500km first service and Kia’s 5-year up to 100,000km warranty programme with 24hr roadside assist.
See new and used Kia Carnival for sale here.