2000 Kia Carnival LS review from Philippines

Black smoke is very evident when one is caught in traffic. The certified dealer changed the whole muffler system with no charge, but after a few months the smoke was again obviously catching the eye of the traffic enforcers and anti-smoke belching officers. Because of this I bring the van to the dealer to clean my exhaust system. They could not permanently solve the problem.

The fuel pump always accumulates air. Everyday before going to office I have to pump out the air. One day I made a test not to pump out the air. On the fifth day the van could not start, and I had to call the authorized mechanic from the dealer. He loosened some bolts and cranked the engine so the air would come out. I had to pay for that service and I could not work for that day.

Plastic guides on the sliding doors make noises which are irritating when you drive long distances.

The van is comfortable.

It is roomy and relaxing.

It has a smooth ride when cruising.

The engine noise is bearable since it is a diesel engine.

Engine performance is quite commendable except for the smoke that it emits.

Workmanship is below par considering the irritating noises from doors, hinges, and other mechanical assemblies within the cabin.

Air conditioning system is alright, although this has no thermostat control. I have to manually turn off the aircon switch to limit the coldness inside the cabin. Not driver-friendly.