30 March 2022 — The Kia Carnival, which was launched in South Africa in January to overwhelmingly positive reviews, was recently named “Family Vehicle of the Year” by US-based AutoGuide. The vehicle was recognised as the top family vehicle due to its impressive interior capacity, extensive safety features, and modern design.

“The Kia Carnival MPV is truly a multi-purpose vehicle and breaks the mould of what many perceive a vehicle like this should be,” said Steven Center, COO and EVP, Kia America. “AutoGuide’s family vehicle award celebrates the Carnival’s premium design and abundant safety technology, and further validates the Carnival’s wide-reaching appeal.”

The panel of AutoGuide judges noted the Kia Carnival was a clear choice for the best family vehicle, with its stylish “SUV-like exterior” and large interior, along with its suite of safety features and the strong value it brings to the segment.

"It's not just the cool, crossover-adjacent styling. Nor is it those first-class middle-row seats. The Carnival is such an impressive package because it blends that together with a smooth driving demeanour and lots of standard safety equipment. That it rings in as one of the most affordable in its segment solidifies it as the vehicle of choice for families,” said Kyle Patrick, AutoGuide editor.

To select the eight vehicles that received the 2022 AutoGuide awards, a panel of seven editors and reporters drove hundreds of vehicles to narrow down the very best cars, trucks, and utility vehicles across North America. The judges scored the 40 finalists based on value, user-friendliness, space, safety, and more.