This award could also be called the ‘no brainer’ award, because nothing comes close to knocking off the Kia Carnival in the people-mover/family car class. 

It has led the category for more than a decade and there’s no serious challenger in sight. It really feels like the other brands just don’t see this as a serious market, or just can’t compete.

It has a massive, roomy cabin – with room for the whole family AND their luggage. Heck, you can even accommodate the neighbour’s kids.With the option of V6 petrol or four-cylinder turbo diesel power, there is plenty of choice across the line-up. 

In the city and suburbs, the petrol is best, even if it is a fair bit thirstier than the diesel. But if you do a lot of freeway or inter-urban driving, the diesel is the pick. 

Here’s the other surprise: when it comes to the Kia Carninal you don’t need the top of the range. The base model (or the second model up) is plenty of car for the money. 

And don’t forget it has a seven-year factory warranty. 

In this class, nothing else really comes close. In more ways than one.