2025 Kia Carnival MPV Gets New Hybrid Powertrain and Higher Pricing
Kia has unveiled the pricing and details for the revamped 2025 Carnival, now featuring an optional turbo-hybrid powertrain and an array of new tech and design elements. With its versatile multi-purpose capabilities, the 2025 Carnival aims to set new standards in the MPV segment.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2025 Kia Carnival is available in several trims, each offering a unique set of features. Below are the starting MSRPs, excluding the $1,395 destination fee:
Carnival LX: $36,500
Carnival LXS: $38,500
Carnival EX: $40,700
Carnival SX: $45,600
Carnival SX Prestige: $50,600
Carnival Hybrid LXS: $40,500
Carnival Hybrid EX: $42,700
Carnival Hybrid SX: $47,600
Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige: $52,600
Bold New Design and High-Tech Interior
The 2025 Carnival sports a refreshed exterior design, including a grand sculptural grille, detailed cube-like headlights, Kia’s signature Star Map lighting, and geometric wheel designs ranging from 17 to 19 inches. The EX trims and above come standard with 19-inch wheels.
Inside, the Carnival boasts a modern dashboard with a 4.2-inch TFT screen and a 12.3-inch display that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offer a fully digital 12.3-inch instrumentation cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display on a curved panoramic panel. The cabin features six USB-C ports spread across all three rows, two power outlets, and two 115V inverters in the SX and SX-P trims.
Versatile Seating and Advanced Convenience Features
The Carnival continues to offer “Slide-Flex” seating for 8-passenger versions, with a sliding second row and fold-in-floor third-row seats. Dual power sliding doors with hands-free open functionality are standard. EX trims and above include additional family-friendly features such as an in-cabin camera, intercom, and Quiet Mode.
A standard voice recognition system allows for commands like opening windows or adjusting climate controls. Available driver conveniences include an 11-inch Head-Up Display, Full Display Mirror, and Ultrawide-based Digital Key 2.0.
Next-Gen Tech and Hybrid Powertrain
Kia’s next-gen Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) system debuts in the Carnival, offering over-the-air updates. An optional Connected Car Rear Cockpit (ccRC) Rear Entertainment System features dual 14.6-inch HD monitors capable of streaming from popular platforms.
Under the hood, the Carnival continues with the 3.5-liter V6 GDI engine, producing 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The new Carnival Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbo-hybrid engine paired with a 54kW motor, delivering a combined 242 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. Unique to the hybrid model are 17-inch aerodynamic wheels, Active Air Flaps, and paddle regenerative braking.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
The 2025 Carnival includes an updated suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Key features include standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with new functions such as Junction Crossing, Lane-change Oncoming, Lane-change Side, and Evasive Steering Assist on SX models and above. Additionally, SX trims and higher come with Highway Driving Assist 2, designed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, keep the car within lane markers, and assist in lane changes under certain conditions.
The 2025 Kia Carnival combines bold styling, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features with the introduction of a new hybrid powertrain. With its array of trims and competitive pricing, the Carnival remains a strong contender in the MPV market, appealing to families and tech-savvy drivers alike.