Kia Carnival High Roof: Taller model now not just for 'limousines'

The Kia Carnival High Roof unveiled this week in South Korea makes the tall-body version of the popular people mover more widely available. 

At a shade over 2.0m tall, the High Roof model is 270mm taller than the regular Carnival available in Australia. Made from steel, the roof box-style extension features a chrome strip along the side and a wide, high-mounted brake light. 

The roof extension was previously limited to the pricier Hi Limousine range, which featured higher spec levels and the choice of four or seven seats.

The taller roof adds significant headroom to the second and third rows, and makes it easier for passengers to walk through the vehicle. The inside of the roof extension is lined with a suede-like material, and features down lights, pop-out reading lights and air vents.

The new High Roof model will initially be available as a nine-seater, with captain's chairs in the second and third row, and a three-person bench in the fourth row. A seven-seat variant, with captain's chairs in the second row and a three-seat third row, will become available later in the year.

There are two drivetrains to choose from: a naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6, and a hybrid with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine.

Colour options are limited to just Aurora Black Pearl and Snow White Pearl, while the interior is only available in beige. 

Now on sale in South Korea, the Carnival High Roof starts from ₩52.11 million (A$48,700) for the V6, and ₩56.66 million (A$52,900) for the hybrid.

For reference, the existing Hi Limousine starts at ₩63.27 million (A$59,100) and stretches all the way to ₩106.33 million (A$99,300) for the ultra-luxury four-seat model.

No word yet on whether Kia plans to sell the Carnival High Roof in other markets. Before we rule out the High Roof from making the trip Down Under, remember Kia did bring the tall-roof Niro Plus to Australia in limited numbers to satisfy taxi fleets and ride share operators. 

MORE: Explore the Kia Carnival showroom