Kia Carnival vs MG M9: Which premium MPV is best for the family? Price, Features and Range Comparison

Need a spacious, comfortable and feature-loaded MPV for your family that won’t leave you tired even on long drives? So both Kia Carnival and MG M9 are great options. The Carnival comes with traditional diesel power and reliable performance, while the MG M9 delivers a new experience with an electric powertrain, silent ride and futuristic luxury.

Talking about the price (ex-showroom), the Kia Carnival Limousine Plus variant starts from around ₹ 59.42 lakh. MG M9 Presidential Limo price starts at ₹70.90 lakh. The Carnival is more affordable, while the M9 is a bit expensive for the premium EV experience. Both are 7-seater MPVs that are best for large families, chauffeur-driven use or premium transport. Let us know which one is better to buy in terms of design and powertrain?

design details

Kia Carnival comes with a modern and bold look. With 5155 mm length, 1995 mm width, 1775 mm height and 3090 mm wheelbase, it sets the standards for premium MPVs. LED headlamps, dual sunroof and sleek profile make it attractive. Ground clearance is good (180 mm).

Whereas, MG M9 is big and imposing. With 5200 mm length, 2000 mm width, 1800 mm height and 3200 mm wheelbase, it is the largest in the segment. The boxy design, split LED lights, panoramic sunroof and powered sliding doors make it futuristic and road-dominating. Being an EV the front grille is blank. M9 is larger in size, which gives more road presence.

Cabin and Comfort

Both have an atmosphere of luxury, but the M9 is more specialized for backseat passengers. The Carnival features high-quality leatherette, 64-color ambient lighting, ventilated and heated seats. Second row VIP lounge seats provide comfort with power recline and leg rest. Third row is also usable. 12.3 inch touchscreen and digital cluster make it special.

On the other hand, the MG M9 gets presidential seats with 16-way adjustment, massage, ottoman leg rest and ventilation. Dual sunroof, JBL 13-speaker sound system, rear entertainment screens and more space (3200mm wheelbase) make it special. There is massage function in both front and rear rows. The interior is more luxurious and EV-quiet. The M9 seems better suited for chauffeur-driven use.

Features and safety

The Carnival has 12.3-inch dual screens, wireless charging, Kia Connect, powered tailgate, 360° camera, heads-up display, multiple USB ports and good AC. MG M9 has level-2 ADAS, rear touchscreens, V2L/V2V, wireless charging, panoramic view, PM2.5 filter, memory seats and i-SMART connected tech. The M9 is slightly ahead in features, especially in backseat entertainment.

Talking about safety, Carnival has 8 airbags, level-2 ADAS (Adaptive Cruise, Lane Keep, Blind Spot etc.), 360° camera, TPMS, ESC and good structure. The MG M9 can also be bought with 7 airbags, level-2 ADAS, 360° camera, 5-star Euro NCAP rating (expected/similar), ESC, TPMS and high-strength steel body. Both are safe, Carnival has one more airbag.

Powertrain details

Kia Carnival has a 2.2 liter turbo diesel (190 bhp, 441 Nm) engine, which comes with 8-speed automatic and FWD options. Its ARAI claimed mileage is 14.85 kmpl. The torquey engine is perfect for loaded drives and highways. MG M9 has a 90 kWh battery and single motor (242-245 bhp, 350 Nm). Its claimed range with FWD option is 548 KM (MIDC).

Summary: If you want diesel range and value, choose the Kia Carnival. If you want EV luxury, silence and big space then MG M9 is better. Which car you should choose between the two depends on your family use, budget and charging infrastructure. Do take a test drive and compare the two sitting on the rear seat.