KIA Carnival vs Zeekr 009: Petrol MPV Faces Electric Luxury Challenge in Pakistan

new carnival

The KIA Carnival has long been a favorite in Pakistan’s premium MPV segment, known for its spacious interiors, refined comfort, and powerful petrol engine.

KIA Motors Pakistan launched the facelifted version, introducing updated design cues, modern features, and a refreshed cabin experience.

However, the MPV market is rapidly evolving, and the Carnival now faces stiff competition from premium electric alternatives, signaling a new era for family and executive transport.

One of the strongest rivals is the Zeekr 009 Electric MPV, launched by Capital Smart Motors.

Positioned as a top-tier electric MPV, the Zeekr 009 combines advanced electric powertrains with luxurious interiors, cutting-edge technology, and premium comfort.

It is designed to appeal to buyers looking for a high-tech, environmentally friendly, and exclusive MPV experience. Let’s see how these two vehicles compare in Pakistan.

Variants and Pricing

The KIA Carnival comes in a single variant, the 3.5L V6, priced at Rs 18,200,000, offering all features in one complete package.

In contrast, the Zeekr 009 comes in two premium trims: Luxury at Rs 45,999,000 and Ultra Luxury at Rs 48,999,000, giving buyers options depending on the level of luxury and technology they desire.

For this comparison, we will focus on the top variants of both models to understand their maximum offerings.

Dimensions and Space

The KIA Carnival is built for practicality and family comfort, measuring 5,155 mm in length, 1,995 mm in width, and 1,740 mm in height, with a 3,090 mm wheelbase.

It offers seating for up to 11 passengers, a 990-liter boot, five doors, and a ground clearance of 172 mm, making it ideal for large families and long-distance travel.

The Zeekr 009, meanwhile, is slightly larger with an overall length of 5,209 mm, width of 2,024 mm, height of 1,812 mm, and a 3,205 mm wheelbase.

Seating is limited to six passengers, with a smaller 574-liter boot and ground clearance of 142 mm, prioritizing luxury and exclusivity over maximum capacity.

Powertrain and Performance

The KIA Carnival features a 3.5L V6 petrol engine producing 268 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 332 Nm torque at 5,000 RPM, paired with front-wheel drive, a DOHC 24-valve configuration, and a top speed of 180 km/h. Its multi-point fuel injection system (MPI) ensures smooth performance, making it reliable for long trips and daily driving.

The Zeekr 009 is powered by a dual electric motor setup generating 604 horsepower, with a 116 kWh Li(NiCoMn)O2 battery, offering a range of 582 km and a top speed of 210 km/h. It can be fully charged in 13 hours, combining thrilling acceleration with zero emissions, making it one of the most advanced electric MPVs in Pakistan.

Comfort, Convenience, and Features

The KIA Carnival emphasizes luxury and convenience, featuring three-zone climate control, rear AC including third-row vents, heated seats, leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support, driver memory function, and multiple driving modes.

Additional comfort comes from paddle shifters, auto brake hold, adjustable steering, steering-mounted controls, front and rear cameras, cup holders, armrests, sun visors, vanity mirrors, interior lighting, cargo light, wireless charging, front and rear power outlets, rear folding seats, cruise control, smart keyless entry, push start, automatic headlamps, headlight-on reminder, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The Zeekr 009 builds on this with three-zone climate control, heater, heated and ventilated seats, rear AC including third-row vents, adjustable leather seats with lumbar support, driver seat memory function, multiple selectable driving modes, adaptive cruise control, auto brake hold, steering-mounted switches, 360-degree camera system, front and rear cameras, air purifier, cool box, rear central control, wireless charging, front and rear power outlets, cup holders, armrest, sun visor, vanity mirror, glove box lamp, interior lighting, cargo light, rear folding seats, keyless entry, push start, remote boot and fuel lid release, automatic headlamps, headlight-on reminder, and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Verdict: Family MPV vs Premium Electric Luxury

If space, affordability, and traditional petrol performance are your priorities, the KIA Carnival remains a dependable choice for families and group travel.

However, for cutting-edge electric performance, exclusive interiors, and advanced technology, the Zeekr 009 Ultra Luxury sets a new benchmark for MPVs in Pakistan.