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Kia Carnival vs Mercedes-Benz GLS - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (287 HP vs 603 HP), trunk space and price (36,800 $ vs 89,200 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Kia Carnival or Mercedes-Benz GLS?

Kia Carnival vs Mercedes-Benz GLS: Key differences

Kia Carnival

  • clearly cheaper
  • noticeably lighter
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Mercedes-Benz GLS

  • significantly more power
  • marginally more efficient
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Carnival

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Kia Carnival is clearly cheaper – starting at 36,800 $ , while the Mercedes-Benz GLS costs 89,200 $ . That’s a price difference of around 52,400 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz GLS performs marginally better – achieving 19 mpg, compared to 18 mpg for the Kia Carnival. That’s a difference of about 1 mpg.

GLS

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes-Benz GLS offers significantly more power – delivering 603 HP compared to 287 HP. That’s roughly 316 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes-Benz GLS delivers considerably more torque with 627 lb-ft compared to 260 lb-ft. That’s about 367 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Kia Carnival offers more seats – 8 vs 7.

In terms of curb weight, Kia Carnival is noticeably lighter – 4,431 lbs compared to 5,489 lbs. The difference is around 1,058 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Kia Carnival is slightly ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $36,800
Carnival

Kia Carnival

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 287 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

General
View detailed analysis

Kia Carnival

The Kia Carnival is designed as a multi-purpose vehicle that adeptly combines the best features of a minivan with upscale amenities. Its spacious interior offers impressive flexibility, catering to both family needs and cargo demands, while providing passengers with a premium travel experience. With advanced safety features and a contemporary design, the Kia Carnival makes an attractive option for those seeking comfort and reliability in their daily drive or road trips.

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Mercedes-Benz GLS

The Mercedes-Benz GLS stands as a benchmark in the luxury SUV segment, offering an opulent blend of comfort, space, and advanced technology. With its elegant and commanding presence, the GLS is designed to deliver a superior drive with a smooth and powerful performance. Inside, passengers are treated to a spacious interior with high-end materials and state-of-the-art features, turning every journey into a first-class experience.

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Reviews Mercedes-Benz GLS

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Mercedes-Benz GLS

Costs and Consumption
Price
36,800 - 50,900 $
Price
89,200 - 178,500 $
FuelEconomy City
18 mpg
FuelEconomy City
13 - 19 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
18 - 24 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
19 gal
Fuel tank capacity
23.7 - 23.8 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Van
Body Type
4MATIC, 4MATIC+
Seats
7 - 8
Seats
5 - 7
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
4,431 - 4,581 lbs
Curb weight
5,489 - 6,106 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
203 in.
Length
205 - 206 in.
Width
78.5 in.
Width
79.9 in.
Height
68 - 69 in.
Height
71 - 72 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
287 HP
Power HP
375 - 603 HP
Torque
260 lb-ft
Torque
369 - 627 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
3.5 L
Engine Displacement
3 - 4 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
Brand
Kia
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
What is the starting MSRP for the Kia Carnival?

The Kia Carnival starts at 36,800 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.