Kia Carnival vs Hyundai Staria

What's the difference?

Ok, here's the rub. Everything you just read could well be pointless. You like the Carnival. In fact, it sometimes makes up close to 90 per cent of the sales in its segment, and outsells all of its competitors combined.

So whether I like it or not, I suspect you'll be buying one anyway.

But I can say this - the new Carnival improves the formula right across the board. Well, everything except for price.

The Staria diesel is easy to drive with a great ride and excellent visibility. This van is super practical for families, too, offering lots of space, cargo room and good accessibility, although the manual side doors are heavy.

Diesel would not be this testers first choice of fuel due to its noisy nature, high price and the pollution factor.

The low window line was fun only until I realised my daughter's car seat sat level with it.

The petrol, hybrid and EV versions would be a better choice for those looking for all the same features but with a quieter and cleaner powertrain.