Cargo Capacity Face-off: Which Kia SUV models Hold the Most?
Ever find yourself at the hardware store, staring at a flat-pack bookshelf, and wondering, “Will this fit in my car?”
That moment of truth is a real test of a vehicle’s worth. For families, adventurers, and weekend warriors, cargo space isn’t just a spec on a sheet—it’s the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth one. Kia’s lineup of SUVs has become a powerhouse, known for bold design and incredible value. But when it comes to pure hauling ability, which model truly reigns supreme?
Let’s move beyond the brochures and get into the real-world numbers. We’re putting popular Kia SUVs to the test to see which ones offer the most space for your gear, groceries, and getaway luggage. You might be surprised by some of the champs and challengers.
The Heavyweight Haulers: Three-Row Kia SUVs
When you need maximum space, you look to the vehicles built to carry people *and* their stuff. Kia’s three-row offerings are where you find the most impressive cargo numbers.
The Undisputed Champion: Kia Carnival
Don’t let the “MPV” label fool you—the Kia Carnival is a cargo-hauling beast in stylish clothing. While it’s celebrated for its luxurious and flexible seating, its cargo capacity is its secret superpower.
With all seats in use, you still have a very usable trunk. But the magic happens when you start folding. By lowering the versatile third and second rows, the Carnival transforms into a cavernous, van-like cargo hold. This flexibility gives it the largest maximum cargo volume in the entire Kia family. [citation:6] It’s the ultimate choice for anyone whose lifestyle regularly involves moving big, bulky items, from furniture to festival gear.
The Rugged Leader: Kia Telluride
The award-winning Telluride is the king of the three-row SUV hill. It combines a commanding presence, a powerful 3.8L V6 engine [citation:4], and a seriously spacious interior.
Think of the Telluride as the perfect balance. It offers ample space behind its third row for daily needs. When you need more, those rear seats fold flat to create a massive, continuous load floor. It’s the go-to for families who need space for sports equipment, camping trips, and road-trip luggage without sacrificing an ounce of style or all-wheel drive capability. *Its combination of space, power, and premium feel makes it one of the most complete packages on the market.*
The Compact Contenders: Two-Row Kia SUVs
Not everyone needs three rows. For many, a two-row SUV offers the perfect blend of manageable size and clever, spacious design. Here, Kia’s engineering shines in creating surprising room in efficient packages.
The Space Maximizer: Kia Sportage
The Sportage proves that a compact SUV doesn’t mean compromising on cargo. Recent redesigns have turned it into a class leader for interior room. Reviews consistently praise its “massive rear cargo area.” [citation:3]
With the second row up, it offers a best-in-class 39.6 cubic feet of space [citation:3]. Fold the seats down, and that expands to a cavernous 74.1 cubic feet [citation:3]. That’s more than some older midsize SUVs! The wide hatch opening and flat load floor make it incredibly easy to use every single inch. It’s the smart choice for small families or active couples who need versatile space in a tidy, efficient vehicle.
The Electric Innovator: Kia EV6
The EV6 redefines what an electric vehicle can be, and its cargo space is part of that revolution. Built on a dedicated Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), it has a long wheelbase and a flat floor, freeing up interior room. It offers a useful 24.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and about 50 cubic feet when they’re folded [citation:6].
Plus, you get the bonus of a front trunk (or “frunk”) for extra storage of charging cables or bags. [citation:2] While its total volume may be less than the larger gas models, its packaging is brilliantly efficient. *The EV6 shows that going electric doesn’t mean giving up practicality for thrilling performance.*
“Kia’s transformation from a value brand to an industry innovator is perfectly illustrated in its SUV lineup. They’ve mastered the art of packaging—delivering bold design and advanced technology without ever forgetting that people need a real, usable place to put their things.” — Automotive Space & Design Analyst
Kia SUV Cargo & Power Snapshot
| Model | Max Cargo Volume (cu. ft.) | Cargo Behind 3rd/2nd Row (cu. ft.) | Key Powertrain | Starting MSRP (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Carnival | **Largest in Lineup** [citation:6] | N/A (Flexible Seating) | 3.5L V6 GDI | ~$37,000 |
| Kia Telluride | ~87 (Est. with 2nd row folded) | ~21 / ~46 (Est.) | 3.8L V6 (291 hp) [citation:4] | ~$38,000 |
| Kia Sportage | 74.1 [citation:3] | 39.6 [citation:3] | 2.5L 4-Cyl (187 hp) [citation:1] | ~$27,400 [citation:3] |
| Kia EV6 | ~50.2 [citation:6] | ~24.4 [citation:6] | Electric (167-641 hp) [citation:2] | ~$44,000 |
Visualizing Kia SUV Cargo Capacity
This chart compares the maximum cargo space you get with the rear seats folded down. It shows the clear hierarchy, from the family-focused Carnival to the compact yet spacious Sportage.
Pro Tip: Cubic feet is a great guide, but don’t forget about shape. A vehicle with a square, boxy rear end (like the Carnival or Telluride) will often fit large, bulky items more easily than one with a sleek, sloping roofline, even if their numbers are similar.
Kia Cargo Space FAQs
Which Kia has the absolute most cargo space?
The Kia Carnival offers the most flexible and maximum cargo space in the lineup, thanks to its van-like design and seat-folding versatility. [citation:6]
Is the Kia Telluride or the Kia Sorento bigger?
The Telluride is bigger. It’s a midsize, three-row SUV, while the Sorento is a mid-size crossover that can feel a bit tighter, especially in the third row and cargo area behind it.
Does the electric Kia EV6 have less cargo space than gas SUVs?
Its total volume is less than larger three-row models, but its smart packaging provides excellent space for its segment and includes bonus storage in the front trunk. [citation:2][citation:6]
Can you get a hybrid Kia SUV with good cargo space?
Yes. The Kia Sorento Hybrid and the all-electric EV6 offer excellent fuel efficiency while still providing very competitive and usable cargo room for their classes.
What is Kia’s best SUV for families?
For large families, the three-row Telluride or Carnival are top picks. For smaller families, the incredibly spacious two-row Sportage is a perfect fit. [citation:3]
Finding Your Perfect Fit
So, which Kia SUV holds the most? The answer depends on your definition of “most.”
- For pure, unadulterated maximum volume: Choose the Kia Carnival.
- For the best blend of space, power, and premium three-row SUV style: Choose the Kia Telluride.
- For shocking amounts of space in a compact, efficient package: Choose the Kia Sportage.
- For high-tech, efficient cargo in a thrilling electric drive: Choose the Kia EV6.
The best advice is to take your own “cargo test.” Visit a dealer with a suitcase, a cooler, or a big box you often carry. Fold the seats, load it up, and see which Kia SUV feels like the right partner for your adventures.
Always ensure your cargo is secured and does not block your rearview mirror for safe driving.
What’s Your Hauler?
Do you drive a Kia that’s swallowed more IKEA furniture than you thought possible? Or are you dreaming of a Telluride for your next cross-country trip? Share your Kia cargo stories or dream model in the comments below!
