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Kia Carnival vs Subaru Ascent - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (287 HP vs 260 HP), trunk space and price (36,800 $ vs 38,900 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Kia Carnival or Subaru Ascent?

Kia Carnival vs Subaru Ascent: Key differences

Kia Carnival

  • very slightly cheaper
  • very slightly more power
  • marginally lighter

Subaru Ascent

  • marginally more efficient

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Ascent

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Kia Carnival is very slightly cheaper – starting at 36,800 $ , while the Subaru Ascent costs 38,900 $ . That’s a price difference of around 2,110 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Subaru Ascent performs marginally better – achieving 20 mpg, compared to 18 mpg for the Kia Carnival. That’s a difference of about 2 mpg.

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 Kia Carnival offers very slightly more power – delivering 287 HP compared to 260 HP. That’s roughly 27 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Subaru Ascent delivers only slightly more torque with 277 lb-ft compared to 260 lb-ft. That’s about 17 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 8 people.

In terms of curb weight, Kia Carnival is marginally lighter – 4,431 lbs compared to 4,449 lbs. The difference is around 18 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Kia Carnival shows a few small advantages 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
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Kia Carnival

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 287 HP
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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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Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent stands out in the world of midsize SUVs, offering a perfect blend of comfort and capability. With seating for up to eight passengers and an array of standard safety features, it caters to families seeking adventure without compromising on reliability. Its robust design and all-wheel-drive functionality make it a dependable choice for those who love exploring both urban and off-road terrains.

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Kia Carnival
Subaru Ascent

Costs and Consumption
Price
36,800 - 50,900 $
Price
38,900 - 50,000 $
FuelEconomy City
18 mpg
FuelEconomy City
19 - 20 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
26 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
25 - 26 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
19 gal
Fuel tank capacity
19.3 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Van
Body Type
SUV
Seats
7 - 8
Seats
7 - 8
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
4,431 - 4,581 lbs
Curb weight
4,449 - 4,597 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
-
Length
203 in.
Length
196.8 in.
Width
78.5 in.
Width
76 in.
Height
68 - 69 in.
Height
71 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
287 HP
Power HP
260 HP
Torque
260 lb-ft
Torque
277 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
3.5 L
Engine Displacement
2.4 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,025
Brand
Kia
Brand
Subaru
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.