While people movers may have fallen from favour in recent years in lieu of some excellent large six and seven seat SUV’s if you’ve got a large family nothing comes close to the versatility of the recently launched eight–seat fourth-generation Kia Carnival. Based on the relatively new Kia Sorrento SUV chassis the overall dynamics of the new Carnival are really impressive and the Korean car makers products just get better year on year. Now available in four grades in both  2.2-litre turbo diesel and a 3.5-litre V6 petrol. I drove the petrol top-spec Carnival Platinum edition at $67,990 drive-away – loaded with features it has the driving finesse of many top-class premium SUV’s – Kia’s local suspension tune just gets better with each model and ride comfort and handling is top class aided by top quality German Continental tyres.

Yes, its big and boxy but driving aids mask its bulk around town and its extremely easy to maneuver with parking sensors front and rear and an excellent rear-view camera.  This Carnival styling now more appealing mimics that of the new Sorrento SUV up front but is less fussy at the rear. The Platinum edition loaded with features, the power captain style second row seats with fore and aft movement just so versatile while the rear power side sliding doors are just so safe especially with small children.

I’m David Berthon

Click PLAY to listen!

Download this podcast here