Hyundai Palisade Vs. Kia Carnival: Which SUV Wins?
July 05 2025 - Montrose Kia

Modern families often require a vehicle that provides both immense space and remarkable utility for their daily routines. Consumers consider various factors when they select a new vehicle, from interior comfort to overall performance capabilities.

The debate over the best vehicle for family transport frequently includes a direct comparison of the Hyundai Palisade vs. Kia Carnival. This popular matchup presents two compelling choices that serve different market segments with distinct attributes.

Exterior Styling and Overall Design Philosophy

The Hyundai Palisade makes a bold statement on the road with its upright stance and large cascading grille. Strong body lines and a split headlight arrangement give the Palisade a sophisticated, upscale appearance. The Kia Carnival, however, takes a more modern and slightly futuristic approach, combining SUV styling with minivan practicality.

This “Grand Utility Vehicle” or GUV design creates a sleek, wide profile that projects confidence. Both models offer distinct visual identities that appeal to different types of buyers.

Interior Space and Seating Configuration Options

Inside the Hyundai Palisade, you find a spacious and luxurious cabin that provides comfortable seating for up to seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim level. The vehicle offers available second-row captain's chairs that create an open feel and easier access to the third row.

The Kia Carnival also provides seating for seven or eight passengers, but it presents a more versatile and minivan-like interior layout. Its unique second-row seats slide and fold in various ways, and a unique "Slide-Flex" seating system makes it easy to customize the space for passengers and cargo.

Standard Technology Features and Infotainment Systems

The Hyundai Palisade includes a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. Its interface is intuitive and provides high-quality graphics for a smooth user experience. The Kia Carnival also brings a 12.3-inch display that integrates with a digital gauge cluster for a widescreen effect.

Both vehicles include connectivity features and optional upgrades, such as rear-seat entertainment systems and multiple USB ports. This will keep all passengers connected during every drive.

Performance Specs and Fuel Economy Ratings

The Hyundai Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, delivering smooth, reliable power for daily driving. It pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission and is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The Kia Carnival comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It features an eight-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive. This combination delivers fuel efficiency similar to its competitors.

Comparing the Hyundai Palisade vs. Kia Carnival in terms of performance shows that both vehicles provide ample power for family transport and highway cruising.

Safety Ratings and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The Hyundai Palisade includes an extensive list of standard safety features that make every journey a secure one for the entire family. Its features include forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection and lane-keeping assist, among others.

The Kia Carnival also receives high safety ratings and provides a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems that protect all occupants. Both vehicles incorporate blind-spot collision avoidance and a surround-view monitor that makes parking and maneuvering very safe and easy in any location.

Cargo Capacity With All Seating Positions Utilized

The Hyundai Palisade offers roughly 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, suitable for groceries or small luggage.

The Kia Carnival, with its minivan design, provides significantly more cargo room behind the third row, approximately 40.2 cubic feet. This added space gives the Carnival an advantage for larger families or anyone needing to carry bulky items without folding seats down.

Find Your Next Ride: Drive the test drive Kia Carnival in Ohio Today

We at Montrose Kia welcome drivers to our dealership in Sheffield Village, Ohio, where we help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs. We invite you to a personal test drive of the Kia Carnival in Ohio and feel its smooth performance and innovative interior features yourself.

Our dealership also delivers a wide selection of certified pre-owned Kia vehicles in Sheffield that give you exceptional quality and great value for your money. Our team at Montrose Kia works with you to find the perfect vehicle that fits your lifestyle and budget.