Typically around 270-276 hp (exact figures may vary by market and specific engine variant).
Torque Range:
Approximately 235-245 lb-ft (exact figures may vary by market and specific engine variant).
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPi) and potentially Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for certain variants.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
6-speed Automatic Transmission.
Optional
Optional Transmission:
Not typically offered for this model year.
Features
Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, Sequential Shift mode.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approximately 121.1 inches (3075 mm).
Overall Length:
Approximately 201.6 inches (5120 mm).
Interior
Passenger Capacity:
7 or 8 passengers depending on configuration.
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies by trim and equipment, typically ranging from 4,500 to 4,800 lbs.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 4 or 5 stars, as per typical minivan safety standards of the era (specific ratings should be verified).
Active Features
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (for all rows).
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Features:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, available USB/Auxiliary input, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity.
Navigation System:
Optional factory navigation system with touchscreen interface.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking sensors.
Backup Camera:
Available rearview camera integrated with the infotainment display.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling, audio streaming.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact spec).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Typically SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant, refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant with long-life anti-corrosion additives (typically pink or orange, consult manual for specific type).
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Front brake pads and rotors, serpentine belt, spark plugs, sway bar links, O2 sensors, potential for transmission issues if fluid is not maintained.
Electrical Concerns:
Occasional issues with power window motors, door lock actuators, or infotainment system glitches.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia Motors History:
Kia Motors Corporation is a South Korean automotive manufacturer, established in 1944, known for its expanding global presence and diverse vehicle lineup.
Model Evolution
Carnival Generation Vq:
The 2012 Kia Carnival belongs to the second generation (VQ), which was produced from 2005 to 2014, offering a more modern design and improved features over its predecessor.
Production
Assembly Locations:
Primary assembly often occurred in Korea, with potential for CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits assembled in other regions.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
While specific awards for the 2012 model year are not prominently advertised, the Kia Carnival generally received positive safety assessments from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS for its generation.