The Indian MPV segment is witnessing a shift toward premium luxury, and two names stand out in this space: the newly introduced MG M9 and the 2024 Kia Carnival. While both are spacious people movers, they serve different types of buyers—one looking for a high-end, chauffeur-driven experience and the other seeking practical, family-oriented comfort.
Here's a detailed comparison between the MG M9 and the Kia Carnival across specifications, performance, features, and value.
Design and Dimensions
- The MG M9 is clearly the more imposing MPV with a length of 5,270 mm, width of 2,000 mm, and a long 3,200 mm wheelbase, exuding the proportions of a luxury limousine.
- In contrast, the Kia Carnival is still generously sized at 5,115 mm in length and a wheelbase of 3,060 mm, but its slightly shorter and narrower dimensions make it easier to manage in Indian urban settings.
The M9's sheer size offers better legroom and more commanding road presence, while the Carnival balances comfort and practicality for large families.
Battery/Engine and Performance
- Under the car, the MG M9 houses a 90 kWh battery pack that produces 245 PS of motor power and 350 Nm of torque. It’s a rear-wheel drive setup tuned for smoothness and refined cruising, which suits its luxury MPV aspirations.
- The Kia Carnival, on the other hand, comes with a 2.2-litre CRDi diesel engine that generates 201 PS and a healthy 440 Nm of torque. It also uses an 8-speed automatic transmission but delivers power to the front wheels.
Those looking for highway performance and efficiency may find the Carnival more practical, while the M9 is more about comfort, quietness, and effortless torque delivery.
Interior Experience and Features
- This is where the MG M9 truly separates itself. It comes with an ultra-luxurious cabin layout, offering 6 recliner seats, 13 JBL speakers with amplifier and subwoofer, 31.24 cm touchscreen infotainment system, 17.78 cm digital instrument cluster, remote car control via app, and live tracking, geo-fencing, and smart diagnostics. For the rear seats, it offers a 16-way powered adjustability, ventilated + heated, 8 massage modes, 4-way lumbar and ottoman support, and dual reclining positions.
- The Kia Carnival offers more functional luxury. Depending on the variant, it can seat 7, 8, or even 9 passengers. The cabin is spacious and comes with leatherette or leather upholstery, dual sunroofs, rear seat ventilation (in top trims), and a capable infotainment setup with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital driver’s display.
While comfortable, the Carnival is not in the same league as the M9 when it comes to pampering rear-seat passengers.
Technology and Safety
- The MG M9 is expected to include a suite of advanced safety features, including Level 2 ADAS with adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and autonomous parking. It also includes a 360-degree camera system, 6 airbags, and rear cross-traffic alert.
- In contrast, the India-spec Kia Carnival continues to offer 6 airbags, electronic stability control, hill start assist, and a 360-degree camera, but misses out on ADAS features which are increasingly becoming standard in this segment.
Price and Value
The MG M9 is priced at a premium, with an ex-showroom prices of ₹69.90 lakh. The Kia Carnival, with a price range between ₹64 lakh and ₹75 lakh, offers excellent value for money for families who need space, diesel efficiency, and flexibility in the ultra-luxury territory.
Should You Buy MG M9 or Kia Carnival?
If you’re looking for an MPV that offers first-class, lounge-like comfort with high-end materials, advanced tech, and a chauffeur-driven focus, the MG M9 is the new benchmark in the Indian market. It brings Vellfire-rivaling luxury at a slightly more accessible price.
On the other hand, if your priority is long-distance family travel, fuel efficiency, and more versatile seating configurations without compromising on comfort, the Kia Carnival remains the more practical choice.
Both vehicles are leaders in their own right—while the MG M9 elevates the luxury MPV segment, the Kia Carnival continues to be the go-to option for families looking for premium practicality.
Looking to compare the MG M9 with the Toyota Vellfire as well? Stay tuned for our next deep-dive comparison.
