2025 Kia Carnival Breaks Cover Globally, Gets New Hybrid Variant
Kia has pulled the wraps off the 2025 version of the Carnival. The refreshed SUV comes with a hybrid powertrain option and a host of new features. It's expected to be available for sale in the United States starting this summer.
By Sanorita
With a notable improvement under the hood—a hybrid engine—the 2025 Kia Carnival made its premiere at the most recent Chicago auto show. It is available in five variants: LX, LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. All versions will have access to the hybrid powertrain, however, except for the entry-level LX variant. While pricing has not yet been announced, the revamped model will be available in the United States this summer. The strong, upright design of the new Carnival on the outside resembles that of an SUV. Modified taillights and a slightly altered rear bumper strengthen the vehicle's rugged appearance. A rectangular grille, revised headlights, and 'Star Map' LED running lights are among the additional exterior enhancements. Here are more details about the 2025 Kia Carnival's powertrain, design, and other features.
2025 Kia Carnival: Engine
A 72bhp electric motor and a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine power the new Kia Carnival hybrid. The configuration produces a total output of 239bhp and 368Nm with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. It's interesting to note that Kia's Sportage and Sorento vehicles sold internationally also use this same powerplant.
Other than this, the standard engine is still a 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 that powers the front wheels with an 8-speed automated transmission. It produces 283bhp and 353Nm, which are somewhat less than the 286bhp and 355Nm of the predecessor.
2025 Kia Carnival: Design and Features
With headlights shaped like an upside-down L, the Carnival sports a new appearance that is identical to the Korea-spec version. It receives updated front and back bumpers in addition to a bigger grille. Other than the license plate being moved to a lower location within the tailgate, the taillights on the back end additionally stretch vertically down the corners. The Kia model has alloy wheels that are available in sizes ranging from 17 to 19 inches. The Carnival HEV version, however, comes with exclusive aerodynamic 17-inch wheels. Additional amenities of the hybrid mode comprise three regenerative braking levels, and Kia's E-Handling technology, which seeks to enhance handling by adjusting the speed of the electric motor. In addition to employing precisely calibrated shocks, a system called E-Ride reduces the effect of bumps by speeding or slowing down the electric motor.
Limited to only a few units, Kia is selling the Carnival Dark Edition, which comes with darkened external components like the front grille, wheels, side door garnishes, C-Pillar garnish, roof rails, and skid plates.
Regarding safety, the model gets Highway Driving aid, which improves the adaptive cruise system with lane centering and lane-change assistance. Evasive steering assist, Lane-Change Oncoming and Side alerts, and Junction-Crossing protection are added features of the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist technology. Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (N-SCC) are also available.
2025 Kia Carnival: Interior
To provide connected navigation and over-the-air updates, the cockpit includes a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster in a single unit. A computerized rearview mirror system and a full-colour head-up display are both optional. Other interior highlights include a rotary shifter, two 14.6-inch entertainment screens for the backseat passengers, Digital Key 2 for smart device connectivity, and a revamped dashboard and center console with fewer physical buttons.
Kia Carnival Facelift India Launch
Kia is set to bring the facelifted version of the Carnival to India soon. While there is no official announcement, the updated MPV is speculated to carry a price tag that ranges between Rs 32 lakh and 40 lakh (ex-showroom).
