2023 Kia Carnival Car Seat Check: Comprehensive Fit & Safety Review

Introduction

The Kia Sedona has evolved into the 2023 Kia Carnival, bringing a host of new features designed for enhanced comfort and safety. The latest model is particularly family-friendly, offering a spacious interior, a robust Latch system, and various seating configurations. In this car seat check, we explore how well different car seats fit in the Kia Carnival and analyze the ease of installation, accessibility, and overall safety features.

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Does the 2023 Kia Carnival Fit Three Car Seats?

Yes, the 2023 Kia Carnival can accommodate three car seats, but this depends on the seating configuration. Models with second-row lounge seats will not fit three car seats across the second row.

Latch System Overview

The Kia Carnival is equipped with three sets of lower Latch anchors in the second row. The outboard Latch anchors are easily accessible, while the middle seat’s anchors are positioned slightly deeper within the seat crease. The third row includes two sets of Latch anchors in the outboard seating positions, but they are somewhat recessed into the upholstery, requiring extra effort to attach car seat connectors.

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Car Seat Installation Ratings

A Grade: Easy Installation

• Infant Seat: The infant car seat was simple to install, providing ample legroom for a 5-foot-6-inch front passenger.
• Rear-Facing Convertible: Installation was straightforward, though taller front passengers might find limited legroom due to the rear entertainment system.
• Forward-Facing Convertible: The head restraint did not need to be raised for installation. The Latch and tether anchors were easy to access.
• Booster Seat: With the head restraint raised, the booster fit well. Stable buckle stalks make it easy for children to secure themselves.
• 

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B Grade: Minor Issues

• Third-Row Access: While the outboard seats slide forward easily, they do not do so when a car seat is installed. The step-in height is relatively high.
• Third-Row Latch System: The third-row Latch anchors are close to the middle seatbelt buckle, making it difficult to use all seats simultaneously.
• Third-Row Booster Seat: The booster fit well after removing the head restraint, but recessed or floppy buckles may be difficult for children to use independently.
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C Grade: Significant Fit Challenges

• Third-Row Forward-Facing Convertible: The head restraint must be removed for a secure fit. Latch connection is somewhat challenging, requiring extra effort to connect and remove the car seat.

Car Seat Grading Scale

The following grading scale was used to assess car seat fit and ease of installation:

• A: Ample space, easy installation, no interference with driver or front passenger legroom.
• B: One minor fit or connection issue, slight accessibility challenges.
• C: Marginal space with one fit or connection issue, difficult third-row access.
• D: Limited space, multiple installation challenges.
• F: Car seat does not fit or is unsafe.

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How the Car Seat Check Was Conducted

MotorVero’s certified child safety seat technicians conducted the 2023 Kia Carnival Car Seat Check using the following methodology:

• Chicco KeyFit 30 infant seat, Graco Contender 65 convertible seat, and Graco TurboBooster seat were tested.
• Front seats were positioned for a 6-foot driver and a shorter passenger.
• Car seats were installed in the second row in different configurations, including all three at once.
• For models with a third row, a booster and forward-facing convertible were tested in the back row.
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Final Thoughts

The 2023 Kia Carnival offers a spacious and family-friendly interior with a strong Latch system. While installation in the second row is straightforward, the third row presents minor challenges. Despite these limitations, the Carnival remains a top choice for families needing a minivan with versatile seating and ample safety features.

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