Chrysler Pacifica vs Kia Carnival
The Chrysler Pacifica and Kia Carnival are both roomy minivans, though Kia styles the Carnival like an SUV. The short answer: the Pacifica offers available all-wheel drive, a plug-in hybrid, and Stow ‘n Go seating, while the Carnival counters with a lower price, SUV looks, and an available hybrid. Here is how they compare.
Chrysler Pacifica vs Kia Carnival: specs compared
Specs compared
| Specification |
Chrysler Pacifica |
Kia Carnival |
| Starting MSRP |
About $44,445 |
About $38,000 |
| Engine |
3.6L V6 (287 hp) |
3.5L V6 (287 hp); hybrid |
| All-wheel drive |
Available |
No (front-wheel drive) |
| Plug-in hybrid |
Available |
No (hybrid available) |
| Seat flexibility |
Stow ‘n Go (folds into floor) |
Removable seats |
| Seating |
Up to 8 |
Up to 8 |
By the numbers
| Specification |
Chrysler Pacifica |
Kia Carnival |
| Starting MSRP |
About $44,445 |
About $38,000 |
| All-wheel drive |
Available |
No |
| Plug-in hybrid |
Available |
No (hybrid available) |
| Stow ‘n Go |
Yes |
No |
Starting MSRP is the manufacturer’s suggested retail price and may or may not include destination charges; it excludes taxes, title, and dealer fees. Contact us for current pricing.
Price and styling
The Carnival starts lower, around $38,000 versus about $44,445 for the Pacifica, and Kia styles it like an SUV with a bold front end. The Pacifica has a more traditional minivan look.
Drivetrain and electrification
The Pacifica offers available all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid; the Carnival is front-wheel drive and offers a standard hybrid rather than a plug-in. Only the Pacifica can run on electricity alone for local trips.
Seating and versatility
Only the Pacifica has Stow ‘n Go seats that fold into the floor. The Carnival’s seats are removable but do not fold away, though its cabin is roomy and well finished.
The bottom line for Perry shoppers
Choose the Carnival for a lower price, SUV styling, and an available hybrid. Choose the Pacifica for available all-wheel drive, a plug-in hybrid, and Stow ‘n Go. At ALM CDJR Perry, a new Pacifica can add ALM VIP Club benefits and our Included Lifetime Warranty on qualifying vehicles.
See all Pacifica comparisons
Chrysler Pacifica vs Kia Carnival FAQ
Is the Chrysler Pacifica better than the Kia Carnival?
It depends. The Pacifica offers available all-wheel drive, a plug-in hybrid, and Stow ‘n Go seating. The Carnival counters with a lower price, SUV styling, and an available hybrid.
Is the Carnival cheaper than the Pacifica?
Yes. The Carnival starts around $38,000 versus about $44,445 for the Pacifica.
Does the Carnival have all-wheel drive or a plug-in hybrid?
No. The Carnival is front-wheel drive and offers a standard hybrid, not a plug-in. The Pacifica offers available all-wheel drive and a plug-in hybrid.
Which has Stow ‘n Go seating?
Only the Pacifica. The Carnival’s seats are removable but do not fold into the floor.
Which seats more?
Both seat up to eight passengers.
Which should I buy?
For price and SUV styling, the Carnival. For all-wheel drive, a plug-in hybrid, and Stow ‘n Go, the Pacifica. We can arrange a Pacifica test drive at ALM CDJR Perry.