KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Kia Carnival: Diesel-powered luxury MPV with premium comfort features.
- MG M9 EV: Futuristic electric MPV with advanced technology.
- Interiors & Features: Both MPVs offer premium, tech-loaded cabins.
- Performance: Carnival excels in range, M9 EV in sustainability.
Kia Carnival Vs MG M9 EV: The Indian automotive market is witnessing a paradigm shift with increasing consumer interest in electric mobility. As luxury MPVs carve out a niche, the MG is about to come up with its all new electric luxury MPV, the MG M9 EV. Though MG M9 EV will have no direct competition in our market, but it will indirectly go against the Kia's chauffeur-driven MPV, the Carnival in India.
Whereas, one is a well-established premium diesel MPV, while the other represents the future of electric luxury mobility. Which one should you go for? Let's do a detailed comparison of both these MPVs and check the VFM of the two across multiple parameters. Before moving ahead, join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest events and happenings in the automotive industry.
Read more: MG M9 EV: Pricing Out Soon; All You Can Expect!
Design and Exterior
The Kia Carnival, in its latest fourth-generation avatar, offers an upscale design. It features a massive front grille, sleek LED headlights and a boxy yet premium stance. The only available Hi-Limousine variant offers exclusivity with enhanced styling elements. Riding on large alloy wheels (upto 19 inch) and offering a well-proportioned body, the Carnival offers luxury with practicality at the same time. Additionally, you get twin sunroofs, connected LED tail lamps and a wide-body stance make it an eye-catching MPV.
On the other hand, the MG M9 EV gets a more modern design that aligns with its all-electric nature. The MPV is characterized by a large chrome-detailed grille, sleek LED headlamps. The upcoming M9 EV also gets connected LED tail lamps that give it a modern yet imposing look. At 5.2 meters long with a 3-meter wheelbase, the M9 is built for spaciousness and supreme road presence. It sits on 17-inch alloy wheels and apart from this all, it gets a distinct electric vehicle aesthetic that appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
Interior and Features
Kia Carnival
The Kia Carnival is made to offer the highest level of comfort and convenience. It features a dual 12.3-inch display setup (one for infotainment and another for the digital instrument cluster) alongside an 11-inch heads-up display. The MPV offers luxurious second-row captain seats with heating, ventilation and leg extension support.
The cabin is equipped with 3-zone automatic climate control, a 12-speaker Bose sound system, and premium leather upholstery. Additionally, Kia's powered tailgate, multiple USB ports and well-thought-out cabin ergonomics make it an excellent chauffeur-driven vehicle.
MG M9 EV
The MG M9 takes luxury to another level with an emphasis on technology and passenger comfort. It boasts a three-row seating layout with ultra-comfortable second-row captain seats, offering an Ottoman function and eight massage modes.
A massive 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 7-inch digital driver's display dominate the dashboard. Other standout features include 64-colour ambient lighting, a 12-speaker premium sound system, wireless charging, an air purifier and connected car technology with second-row usability enhancements.
My Opinion: Both MPVs ensure a plush in-cabin experience and both offer almost equal tech and convenience features. So, the feature is not the section that makes one of these a victor in the segment.
Powertrain and Performance
Kia Carnival
The Kia Carnival is powered by a 2.2-litre diesel engine producing 193PS and 441 Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, it delivers refined and effortless cruising capabilities, especially on highways. Diesel fuel efficiency and a strong torque output make the Carnival a reliable workhorse for long-distance journeys.
MG M9 EV
The MG M9 EV is powered by a 90kWh battery pack paired with a front-wheel-drive electric motor, generating 241bhp and 350Nm of torque. The M9 promises an estimated range of over 400 km on a single charge, making it suitable for urban commutes and intercity travel.
While the instant torque delivery of the EV provides a smooth and silent drive, its practicality for extremely long-distance travel is still dependent on charging infrastructure. However, for those seeking a futuristic, eco-friendly alternative, the M9 delivers a premium electric driving experience.
| Specification | Kia Carnival | MG M9 EV |
|---|---|---|
| Engine/Motor | 2.2-litre Diesel Engine | Front-wheel-drive Electric Motor |
| Power Output | 193PS | 241bhp |
| Torque | 441Nm | 350Nm |
| Transmission | 8-speed Automatic | Single-speed (EV) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Electric |
| Battery Pack | Not Applicable | 90kWh |
| Range | Not Applicable | Over 400 km |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel-drive (FWD) | Front-wheel-drive (FWD) |
| Key Strengths | Strong torque, highway cruising efficiency | Instant torque, eco-friendly, silent drive |
Kia Carnival Vs MG M9 EV: Safety
Kia Carnival
The Kia Carnival is equipped with 8 airbags, a 360-degree camera, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability control. It also offers Level-2 ADAS features such as:
- Front Collision Warning
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control
While the Carnival is yet to receive an official crash test rating, its robust safety features make it a secure choice.
MG M9 EV
MG has loaded the M9 EV with an extensive safety package, including 8 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, Hill Hold Control, TPMS and a 360-degree camera. Additionally, it boasts a Level-2 ADAS suite with features like:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Automatic Emergency Braking
Again, there is no major difference when it comes to the safety and both EVs offer almost all the important and modern safety features that are or should be offered in the respective segment.
Kia Carnival Vs MG M9 EV: Pricing
The Kia Carnival is priced at Rs 63.90 lakh (ex-showroom) for its Limousine Plus variant. It caters to those looking for a spacious and luxurious MPV with the reliability of a diesel powertrain.
While the MG M9 EV's official price is yet to be announced, it is expected to be priced higher than the Carnival. Given its electric nature, lower running costs and future-ready tech, the M9 presents itself as an appealing alternative to traditional MPVs.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Kia Carnival and the MG M9 EV boils down to priorities. Whereas, you can definitely go for the Kia Carnival if you need a long-distance cruiser with diesel efficiency, proven reliability and traditional luxury. It is an excellent choice for those who prefer the convenience of refueling over charging infrastructure constraints.
If you are the one who want a futuristic, tech-loaded and eco-friendly electric MPV with lower running costs and a modern appeal. It's perfect for urban users and those looking to transition to EVs without compromising on comfort and features.
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Verdict
In the end, both MPVs bring their own strengths to the table, making the choice dependent on your lifestyle and driving preferences. Whether you prioritize the tried-and-tested or wish to explore the electric vehicle's utility, both the Carnival and the M9 EV offer compelling value propositions in the luxury MPV space.
