I am currently in the slope of enlightenment phase, feeling quite satisfied with the car.

BHPian rrsteer recently shared this with other enthusiasts

Time for the 40K and two years ownership update.

Will cover the update in two parts. The first part will be about the 40K service experience and in the second part will update about the car in general.

Part 1: The 40k service.

The dealer's customer service team worked overtime harassing me to bring the car for service. When I did, found my booking was not recorded in the ledger and so ended up being treated like a drop-in with no prior booking.

Apart from regular service, additional request from my side were: 1) DON'T touch the wheel alignment/ balancing (I am entitled to free wheel balancing/ alignment once a year) 2) DON'T wash the car (I do the job 10 times better + the cramped washing area doesn't give me the confidence that the car will come out of it without getting hit + I want to keep unknowns from driving my car to a minimum). But, inspite of repeated reminders, they ended up washing the car.

A Whatsapp group was created for the service, but absolutely no updates were provided, until i asked for it a couple of times. In the end and as if to taunt me, just one update picture was shared - the car hoisted on the lift!

Just a month back I got my 12 year old Etios serviced at the Toyota dealership - incidentally just opposite the Kia dealership. They arguably handle more volume and were attending to a 12 year old discontinued, cheapest model launched by them. But it was a totally satisfying, no fuss experience. In this case, dropped the car (their most expensive model at launch) for service, was promised delivery by 6pm, no updates were provided till 5.30pm, after which it was informed the car could be delivered only the next day. Next day, there were again no updates. From the advisor to the CRM head, all were unresponsive. Finally spoke to the GM service, who got the balls rolling and had the car ready by 2pm.

Given my perception of the way the dealership is managed, the folks who work there and the cramped spaces, I am always apprehensive of leaving the car for service. Unfortunately, this time my fears came true. The car was delivered with the front bumper lip unhinged from the main bumper frame. Such are my expectation levels from the dealership, I was almost relieved it was nothing major. But, credit where its due, they immediately agreed to repair it - no questions asked.

Finally ending with a happy note. The 40k service cost me just Rs 827/-, and even that was for a new number plate frame and urea top up. The service costs are covered under 5 year service pack which I got at a hugely discounted rate at the time of buying the car.

Some pictures from the service experience:

First up, the hit job by the dealer:

At the dealer, the cars go up a very narrow ramp and make successive extremely narrow hairpin turns to reach the service area which is at the third floor of the building. They have a specialist driver to take the Carnivals up there:

Look at all the cars. The washing area is not visible, but on the left side of where the cars are parked at the end. Very cramped and a disaster of a planning effort:

The sole update (in the form of a picture) I received on the Whatsapp group. It's so sad, it makes me laugh:

Dealership owner's Porsche Taycan. Didn't like the car's looks - looked too bulbous from the front and front side:

Part 2: My Ownership Experience.

My ownership is aptly depicted by the below chart. I am currently in the slope of enlightenment phase, feeling quite satisfied with the car. Finally, can start to visualise a long (10+ years) ownership period with it.

Premature tyre wear was a leading marker of my 'trough of disillusionment' phase. It hampered my ownership experience almost since I purchased the car. The 'issue' itself is quite widespread. I spotted premature tyre wear in all the Carnivals stationed at the dealership this time. But of course mine was an exception, and all thanks to Team-Bhp and in particular these two gents @ss-traveller and @zeng. More details available in this thread.

The present condition of the LHS rear tyre. The new tyre (put at ~30k) had worn somewhat by 34k, but since then premature wear has been arrested.

There were 3 Carnivals at the dealers. Each had worn off rear tyres. An example below:

If I discount the above issue, otherwise in the 40k kms of running and 2 years of ownership I have not faced any mechanical troubles or heard unwanted noises or seen unwanted lights. It drives tight and like new.

Before I end the update on the car, and I have mentioned this before but will repeat again, I am still surprised how fuel efficient the car has turned out for me. Believe it or not, it's the most efficient car we have right now. The relatively high figures are a result of it being mostly highway driven + driven at steady speeds between 90kmph and 110kmph + engine braking. Even so, an overall fuel consumption figure approaching 13 kmpl for a 2 ton/200 bhp car is worth applauding, I think:

In other news, have added a couple of accessories for the car:

A folding solar panel + rechargeable battery. This enables me to play TV in the car for kids when parked without using the car battery. I land up in such situations often, so this was much needed:

Got a car window net - again very useful when the car is parked and you want the windows rolled down, but need some sort of a screen:

One final picture, and that's it. Hopefully will post the next update at @50k. Cheers:

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The fourth-generation Kia Carnival is likely to be launched in India next year.

The Kia Carnival has been phased out from the Indian market. The car is no longer listed on the brand's official website.

The Carnival was launched during the 2020 Auto Expo as the brand's flagship offering. It was powered by a 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine producing 197 BHP @ 3,800 rpm and 440 Nm @ 1,500-2,750 rpm. The engine was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The fourth-generation Carnival is already on sale in the global markets. The MPV was also presented in India during the 2023 Auto Expo. Moreover, reports suggest that it is likely to launched in India next year.

Globally, the fourth-generation Carnival is offered with 3 engine options. These include a 3.5-litre GDi V6 petrol, a 3.5-litre MPi V6 petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel engine. An 8-speed automatic transmission is offered as standard across all variants.

Source: Autocar India

Keeping Innova Hycross aside, what other cars can be considered?

BHPian Roadster101 recently shared this with other enthusiasts

Having recently sold my Innova, I'm on the lookout for a new car. Let me start of by saying that this isn't a conventional what car thread. As they say, only an Innova can replace an Innova and my family is no exception from this saying. However, Hycross being our top priority, we aren't able to explore other cars with as open a mind.

My query today is, keeping Hycross aside, what other cars can be considered?

Requirements:

• Fuel - We are open to both Diesel and Petrol as well as Hybrids.
• Transmission - Dad is inclined towards automatic but I personally want a manual as I'm about to turn 18 in a year and few months and I'd love to drive stick shift.
• Body type - Preferably SUV, but open to sedans as well.
• Budget - 25 Lakhs +/- 10% OTR
• Length - Longer than 4.5 metres

Cars not considered:

• VAG twins (Taigun and Kushaq) due to less cabin space
• Kia Seltos - Poor safety
• MG Hector and Hector plus - Poor MG reliability and ugly front design
• Tata Safari and Harrier - Poor reliability again

Cars in consideration: (In order from most to least preferred)

• Toyota Innova Hycross
• Honda City
• Skoda Slavia
• Mahindra Scorpio
• Mahindra Thar
• Hyundai Creta
• Mahindra XUV7OO

Should I stick with the Hycross or explore other options. Feel free to suggest any car I've missed out.

Thanks.

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

Innova Hycross, XUV700 or Carnival would be the best replacements. Want a value for money comfort-mobile? Go for the Hector CVT.

Here's what BHPian jai_asnani_98 had to say on the matter:

Since you are considering sedans, it implies that you don't need a 7/8 seater strictly like the Innova.

Creta, Thar, City and Slavia can in no way 'replace' the Innova. Leaves you with ScorpioN(seriously hope you're not talking about the Classic), XUV700 and Hycross.

Basis few reviews, Hycross does not seem appealing enough to those who own a Crysta. This thread nowhere mentions Crysta, so I assume you owned one of the models upto 2015. Thus, you should definitely consider Hycross.

Mahindra has upped their game and hit it outta the park with the XUV700. I personally, am not a fan of too many gizmos and creature comforts on cars. An indestructible machine like the Innova is just what I like. AX5 variant seems like a sweet choice and an even sweeter deal if you feel the same.

Do check out the Compass!

PS- Not clear from the thread whether you own a Crysta. If not, it has been relaunched and truly deserves all the attention. Enjoy it while it lasts!

Cheers

Here's what BHPian hrk997 had to say on the matter:

Kia Carnival! The only car that can replace an Innova is a bigger Innova. I haven't driven the car, but crazy road presence. The rear seats look absolutely comfy. It's a true step up from the Innova.

Also consider the mg Hector, but it has several shortcomings. XUV 700 is the best car you can get, provided you can even get one.

Octavia and Superb are your go to sedan alternatives.

Here's what BHPian Shreyans_Jain had to say on the matter:

25L + 10% only gets you the non hybrid HyCross. The base VX trim of the hybrid costs over 30L on road. Unless you are looking for a car specifically to ferry 6 or 7 adults, there are better options to be had. Scorpio, Thar etc are also not going to cut it.

You should take a good hard look at the Honda City hybrid. It has the space, the comfort, the performance, the premium ambience, the reliability and the feel good factor + street cred, everything you are looking for. It is totally future proof for Delhi NCR, and meets your budget as well. This should be your top choice.

Another car you should consider is the Hyundai Alcazar, in the new 1.5 turbo petrol guise.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

It shares the 3rd generation "N3" platform with the latest Hyundai Tucson.

Big shoutout to Chetan_Rao for shooting these pictures & his coverage of the Auto Expo. Thanks for sharing, man!

Kia has finally unveiled the next-generation Carnival. It shares the 3rd generation "N3" platform with the latest Hyundai Tucson and is available in 3-row or 4-row seating configurations and can accommodate up to 11 passengers internationally. What configurations will be brought to India? Only time will tell. Read our report on the same.

In India, the next-gen Carnival is likely to be offered with a 2.2L diesel engine.

Kia has showcased the next-generation Carnival at the ongoing Auto Expo 2023. The MPV is likely to be launched in India later this year.

The fourth-generation Kia Carnival made its global debut in August 2020. The new MPV is larger than the model currently sold in India. It is available in 3-row or 4-row seating configurations and can accommodate up to 11 passengers.

Inside, the Carnival has a dual display that includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment and a similarly sized digital instrument cluster. The infotainment and climate control functions can be controlled using touch-sensitive buttons on the dashboard.

In the international market, the new Carnival is offered with 3 engine options. These include a 3.5-litre GDi V6 petrol, a 3.5-litre MPi V6 petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel engine. An 8-speed automatic transmission is offered as standard across all variants.

God bless competition. And this isn't even including indirect competitors like the Carens, Scorpio-N etc.

Toyota Innova Hycross

Toyota Innova Hycross Pros:

• A great-looking MPV. SUV’ish styling packs appeal
• Upmarket interiors, good comfort in all 3 rows and usable boot (even with 3rd row up)
• Loaded to the gills with features such as a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, electrically adjustable rear ottoman seats, multi-zone climate control, connected car features, leather upholstery, drive modes, etc.
• Hybrid powertrain makes it lighter on the pocket than diesel and future-proof too. Very good fuel efficiency (expect city FE of 15-17 km/l)
• Impressive performance with a sub-10 second 0-100 km/h time (Toyota claims 9.5 seconds)
• Monocoque construction results in sorted handling and comfortable ride quality
• Brilliant NVH levels result in a quiet and serene experience inside the cabin
• Toyota's bullet-proof reliability, excellent after-sales service and fuss-free ownership experiences
• Safety features such as 6 airbags, Toyota Safety Sense (ADAS), ABS, ESP, TC, all-wheel disc brakes, hill hold, TPMS, Isofix & 3-point seatbelts for all

Toyota Innova Hycross Cons:

• Premium pricing. More expensive than the already-pricey Innova Crysta
• Top-end variants are only available with captain seats in the middle row. No bench option is inexplicable!!
• 18" wheels with 50 profile tyres compromise the overall stance; they look very small
• Monocoque construction won’t be as rugged & abuse-friendly as the Crysta's body-on-frame build
• Rear seat ottomans are useless for taller passengers
• Average sound quality from the JBL system, poor camera resolution and a basic infotainment system display
• Missing features such as rain-sensing wipers, lumbar adjustment, boss lever on the front passenger seat...
• The already-good ride quality could be even better with higher-profile tyres (e.g. on craters). 225/50 sidewalls are on the shorter side

Link to Review

Mahindra XUV700

Mahindra XUV700 Pros:

• Handsome styling matched to solid build quality. Has street presence, feels robust
• Very spacious interiors with comfy seats and sorted ergonomics. 6-footer passengers welcome!
• 182 BHP turbo-diesel & 197 BHP turbo-petrol make for a potent line-up
• Smooth 6-speed torque converter Automatics available with both engines
• Sorted suspension with good road manners & high-speed stability
• AWD is available for the adventurous, unlike most FWD crossovers in the segment
• Loaded with features like radar-based driver assistance system, pop-out door handles, panoramic sunroof, driver memory seat, 360-degree camera, 10.25" infotainment & instrument cluster etc.
• 12-speaker Sony audio system is fantastic! You'll enjoy its sound quality
• Safety features include 7 airbags, ESP, all-wheel disc brakes, hill hold, hill descent control, driver drowsiness detection, TPMS, ISOFIX...

Mahindra XUV700 Cons:

• Negligible boot space with the 3rd-row seat up. Either 5 onboard, or 7 with a roof-top carrier
• Cramped 3rd-row seat is best suited to children only. A sliding middle row is sorely missed
• Petrol AT is thirsty due to its hefty weight, 197 BHP & torque-converter AT
• Some cabin plastics & a few rough areas don't feel premium in an otherwise loaded SUV
• Missing features such as an auto-dimming IRVM, ventilated seats, paddle shifters, full-size spare wheel, ambient lighting, rear sunblinds...
• Concerns over niggles & bugs in a freshly baked, complex Mahindra. We saw 2!
• Mahindra's after-sales service is a hit or miss. Remains a gamble
• AWD is available just with the Diesel AT, and not the MT or petrol motor

Link to Review

Kia Carnival

Kia Carnival Pros:

• A truly luxurious MPV that’s also high on practicality
• Top quality, spacious & comfortable interiors. 3rd-row is usable for adults too
• Fantastic engine & gearbox combination! 2.2L diesel & 8-speed AT impress
• Comfy ride quality & neutral road manners
• Available in 7, 8 and 9-seater configurations
• 540L boot space with all three rows up and 1,624L with the third row down
• Impressive kit (2 sunroofs, premium Harman Kardon sound system, electric rear doors & more)
• 5-star safety rating. Kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, HSA, CBC etc.

Kia Carnival Cons:

• Massive size can make it cumbersome in the city, while parking & in narrow lanes
• Ordinary urban fuel economy due to the 2.2-ton weight, 197 BHP engine & AT gearbox
• Underbody does scrape on bad roads & large speed bumps, especially with a full load
• Top Limousine variant isn't sold as an 8-seater & its 3rd-row access is difficult
• Steering is a level too firm at parking speeds & a level too light at 120 km/h
• Some misses such as paddle shifters, a skinny spare tyre, no auto-wipers or front camera...
• Model is now 5 years old in the international market; next-gen Carnival is being tested
• Stylish 4x4 SUVs like the Fortuner / Endeavour / Kodiaq can be had at the same price

Link to Review

Tata Safari

Tata Safari Pros:

• The iconic brand “Safari” is back! We agree with using the legendary nameplate for this car
• Stunning looks & strong road presence. Solid build too
• Classy, spacious cabin with comfortable seats & a chilling air-con
• Extra 3rd row of seats brings lots more practicality & utility
• Superb captain chairs available as an option for the middle row (top variant only)
• Extras over the Harrier include rear disc brakes, TPMS, e-parking brake, auto-hold, boss mode…
• Fantastic 9-speaker audio system. Sound quality & bass are enjoyable
• 168 BHP 2.0L diesel offers good driveability and a punchy mid-range
• Smooth & competent 6-speed automatic transmission
• Sufficient ground clearance + terrain response system for rough and wet roads
• Topnotch safety kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, rest break reminder, hill hold, brake disc wiping & more
• Features such as the panoramic sunroof, Eco & Sport modes, auto headlamps & wipers, cruise control…

Tata Safari Cons:

• Heavy steering gets cumbersome at parking / u-turn / crawling speeds (<5 km/h)
• 3rd-row access is too difficult in the captain seat variant
• Negligible boot space with all the seats up - a paltry 73 litres
• Safari AT’s focus is on smoothness & comfort; gearbox is not the most responsive
• Concerns over niggles & long-term reliability. Our test car had a problem too!
• Service visit every 6 months / 7,500 km (12 months is the norm today)
• Diesel engine does get loud above 3,500 rpm & its engine note is quite sad too
• No petrol option (almost all competitors offer it). No AWD for enthusiasts either
• Although improved, the Safari's steering @ 120 km/h is still a level too sensitive
• Tata's after-sales service quality is a hit or miss. Remains a gamble
• By 2021 standards, we’d expect wireless charging + front / 360 camera + ventilated seats
• We don’t agree with the excessive chrome (outside), impractical white interiors & 18” rims (bit firmer ride)

Link to Review

MG Hector Plus

Link to Close Look

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

Customers sure are spoilt for choice now, aren't they! God bless competition. And this isn't even including indirect competitors like the Carens, Scorpio-N etc.

Here's what BHPian nfsfreak had to say on the matter:

Voted for Kia Carnival.

I'm currently looking for a comfortable 7 seater, having checked all cars in this list and Jeep Meridian, MG Gloster as well, with a budget of 45L. I currently drive XUV 500 - 2017, model.

My current preference is:

1. Carnival - waiting for a facelift - Auto Expo.
2. Innova Hycross - Waiting for a test drive vehicle. have an active booking but will decide after my test drive, which would happen by the first week of Feb per local dealers.
3. XUV 7OO - have an active booking with an expected delivery date of Apr 2023 - will proceed if the above options don't work out.

I sorely miss Endeavor which would have been my obvious choice for upgrade (was in my personal wishlist) but wouldn't want to go the pre-owned route now & take a chance with Ford shutting its shop here.

Listing my observations on the cars checked based on my order of preference - Sorry for the long post, but this could help others in a similar predicament.

Kia Carnival

Loved the ride and ease of drive though the car is BIG. Truly a comfortable 7-seater by a mile, compared to others in the list. The current drawback is the lack of features (360 camera, adaptive cruise/ADAS etc) and a dated model but not real deal breakers for me.

With the facelift, I hope will get more features and remains within my budget (wishful thinking).

Toyota Innova Hycross

I liked Crysta's comfort and this being a Toyota, I just went ahead with a booking without even test-driving the car by looking at the initial pics and variants list (a first for me) based on Toyota's surprising efforts to match the features - Sunroof, ADAS etc and the new look is not van like, which was a concern before.

But second-row captain seats only in ZX(O) is a very big downer for me - why Toyota? why!!!. Even to carry 5 we need to use a third row which would compromise the boot space. XUV scores high here, as boot space, is more with folded 3rd row, for carrying 5. Now it depends on my test drive with family - especially the ride quality and third-row comfort for 3, to really proceed with the existing booking.

The current timeline for vehicle delivery is 90 days promised by the dealer.

Mahindra XUV 700

Not a big upgrade in terms of space and seating comfort compared to my current car but really liked the ride quality, safety kit, and features (hopefully the niggles are getting sorted in the fresh batches). Downers for me - White interiors (nightmare to maintain), manual IVRM, non-slidable second-row seats. Also I don't like the new look but I think that would grow on you over time.

With no major red flags, I just went ahead with my booking last week of Dec 2022 (Diesel AT AWD - Electric Blue) and surprisingly, the delivery date per initial communication is Apr 2023.

Tata Safari

Loved the look. Surprisingly found XUV 7OO ride better than Safari (was thinking otherwise, hearing about the famed Hexa/old-gen Safari ride quality).

Second-row comfort is better in XUV, but the third row is comparatively better in Safari with a slidable second row. Scored better in terms of comfort features that matter - Ventilated Seats, Electric IVRM, Slidable second row etc but missed 360 camera and ADAS (i think it will be part of the next facelift). Overall it was a really close finish, but seating comfort and ride quality tilted the scale towards XUV ahead of this.

MG Gloster

Loved the space on offer, and the features list (matched almost all the features of XUV and offered some more like ventilated seats). High & commanding seating position but the ride quality was harsh and my home minister did not like the drive. So removed it from my list straight away. Also expensive on the list with no discounts on offer (the top variant is close to 50L).

Jeep Meridian

Not a real 7-seater. The third row is only for kids. Heck, even in the middle row - you can only comfortably seat 2. I think Jeep consciously wanted to ensure the middle passenger is not welcomed - with no headrest or seat belt. With 3 in the back seat, it was not comfortable at all. So it is 4 + 2 seater.

But I loved the car for its ride quality, stability and interior quality. Actually, test drove the car clearly knowing I won't be getting this as I heard great things about the capability of this car. The test drive was very enjoyable as the SA had helped with roads/sections that you can really test this car - bad/no roads ride, highways etc. Great car for 4.

MG Hector Plus & Skoda Kodiaq

They are not real 7-seaters, strictly 5+2. Last-row space and comfort are laughable and only for kids below 5 feet in height. For Kodiaq, I did not even get the test drive vehicle from my local dealer.

Haven't driven Hector Plus after checking the third-row space & having driven Gloster

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The fourth-gen Carnival could replace the model currently sold in India later this year.

Kia is all set to unveil the next-gen Carnival and Sorento SUV at the upcoming Auto Expo 2023. While we wait for the covers to come off, here are the first images of the cars taken at one of Kia India’s facilities.

The fourth-generation Kia Carnival was launched in the global market back in August 2020. Reports suggest that it could replace the model currently sold in India later this year.

The Carnival is a large MPV offering 3-row or 4-row seating configurations and has space for up to 11 passengers. The fourth generation comes with dual 12.3-inch screens for the touchscreen infotainment and the digital instrument cluster. The infotainment and climate control functions can be controlled using touch-sensitive buttons on the dashboard.

The fourth-gen Carnival looks more contemporary with its sharp lines and sleek LED headlamps and tail lights. That being said, it retains its MPV proportions.

Coming to the Sorento, it’s unclear if Kia will introduce this 7-seater SUV in the Indian market anytime soon. It is Kia’s version of the Hyundai Santa Fe and is offered with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol with mild-hybrid tech or as a plug-in hybrid, along with a 2.2-litre diesel engine.

Source: Rushlane

The fourth-gen Kia Carnival and Sorento will be part of the brand's Auto Expo 2023 line-up.

According to a media report, Kia is set to showcase the next-generation Carnival in India next month. The MPV, along with the Sorento SUV, will be part of Kia’s Auto Expo 2023 line-up.

The fourth-generation Kia Carnival made its global debut in August 2020. The new MPV is larger than the model currently sold in India. It is available in 3-row or 4-row seating configurations and can accommodate up to 11 passengers.

The new Carnival has a dual display that includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment and a similarly sized digital instrument cluster. The infotainment and climate control functions can be controlled using touch-sensitive buttons on the dashboard.

Globally, the fourth-generation Carnival is offered with 3 engine options. These include a 3.5-litre GDi V6 petrol, a 3.5-litre MPi V6 petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel engine. An 8-speed automatic transmission is offered as standard across all variants.

The Sorento is essentially Kia’s version of the Hyundai Santa Fe. It’s a 7-seater SUV offered with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol with mild-hybrid tech or as a plug-in hybrid along with a 2.2-litre diesel engine.

Source: Rushlane

The heart says Tucson, the family says Carnival and the mind says Innova Hycross.

BHPian aadiaksh recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

I have already booked Toyota Hyryder and waiting for a test drive of the same.

I am in the market for an SUV/MUV with around 40 lacs in hand.

Requirement: Initially before the price reveal of Tucson, I was planning to book the same but for me, it feels around 5 lacs more than what it should be. That pushed my budget from 35 to 40 lacs as the car is striking and the diesel AWD is competent.

That led me into a rabbit hole of car reviews on here and decided to have a look at KIA Carnival Luxury Plus. The family liked the car very much. We need a comfortable 5 seater and it ticks the boxes for the whole family. Luxury, Engine, comfort and the wow factor that comes with a loaded car. It can comfortably sit 6 is an added plus which we have sorely missed in all of our previous cars.

Sometime around all this, the Innova diesel booking was stopped. And coincidently I took a relatives Innova Crysta for a 1200kms round trip with 5 people and 1 child with loads of luggage and found it to be very practical offering. That led to Hycross coming into the fold of shortlisted cars.

The heart says Tucson, the family says Carnival and the mind says Hycross.

I want to know what your suggestions might be on the subject as the process of booking the car has to start ASAP if it's not the Hycross that is finalized.

Note: Also looked at the Carens as well but removed from consideration due to safety concerns.

Here's what GTO had to say on the matter:

If you have 40-lakhs in hand, don't go for the Hyryder. Pick a superior vehicle and hold onto it for longer.

It can comfortably sit 6 is an added plus which we have sorely missed in all of our previous cars.

This single point pushes me into recommending the Carnival over the Tucson to you. Both are top-class cars. For your usage, the Carnival will offer a lot more luxury than the Innova Crysta.

Here's what BHPian GreasyCarb55 had to say on the matter:

While the KIA Carnival is a brilliant option. Great engine/transmission combo, boot bigger than a Honda City even with all 3 rows up and it's uber comfortable, only disadvantage is that the one we get in India is a last gen model and were only country that gets this model. Every other country where KIA sells the Carnival has got the latest gen model that debuted in North America in 2021.

The newly launched Tuscon is a great option too but do opt for the Diesel model, the petrol model is just "meh" to drive.

As for the Hycross I'd wait for it to be launched first, now yes it's a Toyota and their highest selling model at that, no seriously. The Innova (6036 units) sold twice as much as it's bigger brother the Fortuner (2581 units) in August 2022 and the next highest seller (regular Urban Cruiser) sold 3131 units. If you can wait for it to come out then I would wait, you can never be too sure.

I would also consider the following options:

1. Skoda Kodiaq - Since you're not necessarily looking for a 5 seater and not a 7 seater the Kodiaq is a great choice. Only disadvantage I can see is that we've now lost the 2.0 TDI diesel and it's now petrol only. So your wallet might take a beating if your usage is high. Approximate on road prices for Vapi, Gujarat are (41.35 Lakh Style, 42.44 Lakh Sportline, 44.1 Lakh L&K).

2. Citroen C5 Aircross - Now yes the recent price hike is unjustified but it's still a damn good car. The suspension and 170hp 2.0L Diesel combo is killer. Approximate on road prices for Vapi, Gujarat are (41 Lakh, Shine Dual Tone).

Here's what BHPian bijims had to say on the matter:

The Kia Carnival and Hyundai Tucson are both incredible offerings in their respective segments. The Carnival is one of the best people-movers you could get, whereas the Tucson is a modern, feature loaded SUV.

The Carnival is huge in size with 5115 mm of length, 1985 mm of width, 1755 mm of height, wheelbase of 3060 mm and a ground clearance of 180 mm. Whereas the Tucson is much more maneuverable with smaller dimensions.

The Tucson on sale in India has been recently updated whereas India is the only market where the previous generation Carnival is still on sale while other markets have gotten the facelifted version quite a while ago.

It is too early to comment on the Toyota Innova Hycross, and I would recommend you to wait till the launch and price reveal to get a clearer picture.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

I tried the lowest possible temperature and the highest fan speed to recheck if the AC is functioning, the result was absolutely no cooling.

BHPian vsrikkanth recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

KIA Carnival AC stops working immediately after 40000 kms service @JSP Kia, Hosur Road:

I am writing this to document the ordeal I'm going through after the 40,000 kms routine service at JSP KIA- Hosur Road , Bangalore .

The car was taken in for service on 16-07-2022. During the service, one of the service advisors (service head) informed me that a service campaign to replace 2 hose pipes for the engine coolant is due and compulsory as per instructions from Kia. When I asked why the hose pipes need replacement, I was informed that the stock hose pipes are subject to heating which may result in the pipes getting cut- leaking coolant . I therefore agreed reluctantly since I was worried about components in the engine bay being disturbed during the process . The service was completed and the car handed over by 4.30 PM . Given the Bangalore weather and intermittent rains, I did not switch on the AC . I hardly used the car for the next few days after service and those short trips was also made without switching on the AC.

Fast forward to Saturday , we started early morning 3.30 AM to Hyderabad and by about 8 am when I thought I will need AC, I noticed that the blower was functioning but there was no cooling. I tried the lowest possible temperature and the highest fan speed to recheck if the AC is functioning, the result was absolutely no cooling. Shocked by this, I called up service advisor Raja at JSP KIA - Hosur Road, Bangalore to check if he noticed any problem with the AC. He confirmed that the AC was functioning fine and denied all possibilities of wrong doings/human error by technicians at the service centre. I reached Hyderabad without AC and took the car for inspection to Kia Aautomotive in Gachbowli, Hyderabad.

Upon inspection, one gentleman (possibly the service head) was quick to conclude that my front bumper damage may have caused the rubbing between the condenser and the copper tubing. I told him that the front bumper damage happened more than 2 years ago and it is not logical / believable that the condenser which took the impact before 2 years did not fail for more than 24 months . As an evidence to my claim, I told him that he is free to check the service records at all service centres where my Kia Carvival was serviced since they will have pictures / records of damages when the vehicle was checked in and out. Then MR.Naresh accepted the possibility of technicians accidentally causing damage to the condenser while replacing the hose pipes .

Post this conversation, I shared pictures of the condenser with the service advisor at JSP Kia Bangalore. He too accepted the possibility of human error but he insisted on physical inspection of the car once I'm back to Bangalore. Therefore , I was forced to drive overnight with my wife and 2 children without AC from Hyderabad to Bangalore. I took the car for inspection today and he denied even the remotest of chances that the condenser could have been damaged due to lapses by the technicians . According to him, this is due to the impact that happened before 2 years and he believes that the perfectly fine AC which went bad immediately after service is purely a coincidence for which JSP Kia will not assume any responsibility. I am attaching the photo of the condenser as well as the front bumper for reference of the distinguished Team BHP members. It would be an under statement for me to say that the logic presented by the service advisor is plain ridiculous! Now I request opinions/thoughts/advice from Team BHP members on what is the best way forward . I'm told that the condenser replacement will set me back by atleast 25,000/- not including gas refilling.

Some of the unanswered questions in my mind:

• If the condenser was impacted along with the front bumper before 2 years, would it really take this long for the AC to fail ?
• If the condenser was indeed impacted before 2 years , how come none of the service centres across Hyderabad/Bangalore/Chennai catch this issue?
• 3. If JSP KIA, Bangalore is trying to hide the lapses of technicians behind a long existing bumper damage , how do I escalate this ?
• Is aluminum welding reliable if KIA hangs me out to dry with this issue ?

Update:

It was a wrong diagnosis. Apparently my right wheel landed in the crater and the damage was under the area around skid plate. That kind of twisted the condenser clamp and the copper piping rubbed against the condenser causing the damage and leak. Another ASS was able to diagnose this and explain the reason to my satisfaction. They even showed the area of impact. The old ASS who performed the routine service never checked the AC and upon raising a complaint they have probably lied that the AC worked fine when the vehicle was in their custody.

It happened before the routine service due to infamous Bangalore roads. It was a blind turn and I did not see the deep crater coming. Any car except Thar would have suffered some damage. The old ASS should have caught it if they had done their checks properly. Kia mandates 42 point check which includes AC too but am sure they won't check unless customer reports any issue. But it was a coincidence that the AC failed immediately after the service. The only fault of ASS is not running all checks and lying that the AC was functioning properly when they gave delivery. Given the climate in Bangalore, you will never notice AC issues immediately.

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