Kia PH COO Brian Buendia’s family loves the Carnival

MANILA: The updated Kia Carnival premium multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) is the favorite ride of Kia Philippines Chief Operating Officer Brian James Buendia’s family. 

The aforementioned was shared by the automotive company’s executive through an interview with Zigwheels Philippines during the formal local debut of the three-row MPV’s latest iteration.

“So its really an all-around family and executive vehicle and my kids love it. In fact, my family really wanted me to get the Carnival. The reason why they really love it is because when I drive it, everyone inside is asleep. They’re so relaxed inside,” Buendia said. 

Buendia attributed the relaxing nature of the updated vehicle to the roomy three-row seating setup it comes with. For reference, the model uses power-reclining second-row captain seats equipped with ottomans, as well as a split-folding third row.

“I am a family of four, so it's just perfect for me. I can get that bonus seat at the back. If I want that luxury feel, I can easily convert it to a luxury four-seater MPV,” Buendia added. 

The refreshed Carnival can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. To ensure everyone stays cool and comfortable, it was also kitted out with a triple-zone automatic climate control system that includes vents throughout the interior.

Additionally, the vehicle features durable but supple leather upholstery, making it well-suited for active families and energetic kids. Long road trips are enhanced by a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and a sizable 12.3-inch infotainment system compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Being a family-friendly ride, Kia also gave the updated Carnival a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assist systems. The said suite includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and lane follow assist, among others. 

Under the hood of both the EX and the top-spec SX trims is a 2.2-liter turbodiesel mill capable of producing up to 199 horsepower and 440 Newton-meters of torque. Power is sent to its front wheels via a seven-speed automatic gearbox. 

As of its local launch, the updated Kia Carnival comes in two variants. The top-spec SX is priced at P3.368 million, while the SX retails at P2.888 million. 

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