The all-new Kia Grand Carnival was officially launched earlier today, a couple of months after it was teased at the Malaysia Autoshow in November last year. It looked imposing back then, and continues to do after being able to get a much closer look.

The ‘Schreyer’ look is unmistakable with its tiger nose grille. So is the wraparound headlamps with sleek LED daytime running lights. It is a large MPV that seats eight people – with comfort from what I can tell so far – and with far more to offer compared to the previous-generation Carnival. In fact it is quite difficult to fathom that it is the younger brother of (what once was) the locally assembled Kia Ria. Having said that, this Grand Carnival is fully imported, although a CKD operation is in the advanced stage.

There are two variants: KX and top-spec EX, priced at RM165,888 and RM185,888 respectively. The former variant is bang on the neighborhood of the Hyundai Grand Starex. The latter Korean, however, is an 11-seater.

Powering the vehicle is a 2.2-litre turbodiesel paired to a six-speed auto. The front wheels receive 190hp and 440Nm. That amount of torque should be more than enough to move the Grand Carnival, although Naza Kia has not provided juicy data, namely its claimed consumption figure and (of lesser importance) the 0-100kph time.

Getting back to the price, we think it is very persuasive simply for the amount of kit you get. This includes two powered doors, powered tailgate (EX variant), roof-located air-cond vents for second and third row (plus its own control panel); curtains for all rear side windows, six speakers, six airbags, ESC and Hill Start Assist. What is impressive is that the third row seats can be folded flat into the floor for a humongous cargo area. Even with the seats up, there is a big cargo hold of 359 litre. The EX gets leather-wrapped seats, but the KX’s fabric is quite nice to be honest.

We are impressed. The press release says that the interior of the cabin is influenced by a ‘first class airplane’ and although we’re not quite sure by what it meant, there is an obvious feel of indulgence to the cabin. Third row passengers even enjoy a very decent amount of leg room.

Naza Kia Malaysia has introduced a new smart financing package, the Kia Value 5 Plus which ensures more savings for Kia owners. This is an additional option for customers to take advantage of the benefits that comes with smart financing.