Compare The 2022 KIA Carnival Vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey

2022 KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: Powertrains

When it comes to powertrains & performance, the 2022 Kia Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey battle is pretty balanced. Both minivans have naturally aspirated V6 engines, both have drive modes, traction assists, and an impressive array of automated driver assistance features. Both vehicles can tow up to 3500-lbs when properly equipped, but the Carnival has the edge on horsepower with 290 horsepower, whereas the Honda Odyssey has 280 horsepower.

That said, if you're looking for the most confident ride, the Odyssey is the only one from this Carnival vs. Odyssey comparison to offer AWD. Additionally, the Honda Odyssey offers a 10-speed transmission while the Carnival only has an 8-speed transmission.

But what does that mean? How do those variables impact you?

Power is great on paper. But it all counts for nothing if improperly applied. The Carnival offers 290 horsepower with 8-speeds and FWD only. This means that the engine has to work harder to maintain forward progress (think of a 3-speed vs. 21-speed mountain bike), and all that energy is sent to the front wheels only.

In nasty weather or on slippery surfaces, this can result in traction loss because the front wheels are overpowered. For our money, this particular aspect of the 2022 Kia Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey comparison goes to the Odyssey.

2022 KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: Amenities

As of today, both models benefit from a design refresh. In fact, the Carnival is a total design overhaul of the outgoing Kia Sedona minivan. The Carnival boasts SUV-like angles, which give it a formidable appearance. The Honda Odyssey holds true to its design purpose, which is aerodynamics & class. You'll have to take this aspect of the 2022 Kia Carnival comparison with a grain of salt because style and taste are totally subjective. You either fall in love at first sight, or you don't.

The Odyssey has an interior that is open and spacious. Take note of the center-stack controls. Both vehicles offer configurable seating in a variety of surface materials. So, if luxury is your style, you'll find leather seating in both or durable wipe & go economy materials. Throughout both vehicles, you'll also find a host of USB ports, power door options, Wi-Fi, and entertainment features to keep the troops well occupied on any journey.

Given the fact that both are nearly equal in dimensions, configurability, amenities, and luxury, we'd rate the 2022 Kia Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey shootout as a tie! If you're looking for something that might differentiate the Odyssey from the Carnival, it would be that the Odyssey carts all of this around with greater finesse which gives you an advantage with fuel economy on the highway.

The Odyssey will get an estimated 28 MPG¹ on the freeway, while the Carnival will only see up to 26 MPG¹. On a final note, the Odyssey will also come with standard adaptive cruise control while the Carnival does not. On second thought, the 2022 Kia Carnival vs. the Honda Odyssey ranking seems to favor the Odyssey. After all, it does give you more. Ready? Jump to our Honda Odyssey lease deals now!

2022 KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: FAQs

So, what'll it be? The Odyssey vs. Carnival in 2022 for you? We think we know where your loyalties are, but let's share some more answers to questions that might just tip you over the edge.

Is the KIA Carnival AWD?

No, it isn’t. This should be a major safety and surety concern for all parents. Even if you are in a region where you don't do battle with the snow, the Carnival is limited by an 8-speed transmission hooked to permanent FWD.

Is Honda discontinuing the Odyssey?

All great things must come to an end. Much like the Kia Sedona having been discontinued, then reborn as the Carnival, we're looking forward to seeing what comes of the conclusion to this epic 10-year odyssey.

Is the 2022 KIA Carnival a van or SUV?

It's neither! While many would naturally refer to the Carnival as a minivan with SUV-like styling, KIA maintains that the Carnival is actually an MPV, or rather a multi-purpose utility vehicle.

2022 KIA Carnival vs. 2022 Honda Odyssey: Conclusions

If you had to choose one right now, which would it be? In our best assessment, there is always more value in a Honda vehicle. Side by side, both of these rivals offer many of the same comfort and convenience options. But when your safety is really on the line, the Odyssey has more standard features, enhanced powertrain & traction, and an edge on overall fuel economy.

Browse our inventory, pick your favorite, and let one of our sales specialists handle everything from there. If you’re still interested in learning more about the Honda brand, check out our Honda tire pressure monitoring system page. You'll learn about how Honda creates features that are intuitive and modern. All designed around keeping you and yours safe.

¹MPG is an EPA estimate only. Your results will vary.