2025 Kia Carnival Gets Sharper Styling and Adds a 242-HP Hybrid Model
The minivan's fresh design is paired with a new powertrain and an upgraded cabin with a larger standard touchscreen.
Kia Reveals Redesigned 2025 Carnival for US Market
Kia first unveiled the refreshed 2025 Carnival for the Korean market in October, featuring new front and rear designs. Now, at the 2024 Chicago Auto Show, Kia has introduced the facelifted version of the minivan for the United States. The updated Carnival boasts sharper looks, bigger screens, and a new hybrid variant available on four of its five trims.
The redesigned 2025 Carnival showcases new upside-down L-shaped lights, a larger front grille, revised bumpers, and a lowered license plate housing. It is also available with wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches in diameter, with a limited quantity Dark Edition option that features a darkened exterior trim.
In addition to its distinctive exterior, the new Carnival receives significant interior updates. The cabin now features separate climate controls from the central console and a rotary gear selector for the hybrid variant. The standard 8.0-inch touchscreen has been replaced with a larger 12.0-inch screen, and optional features include a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a full-color head-up display. Furthermore, the cabin is equipped with seven USB-C ports, two power outlets, and a voice recognition system that can differentiate between voices from the first and second row.
Introduction of a New Hybrid Model
The updated 2025 Kia Carnival introduces a new hybrid model that combines a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a 72-hp electric motor. The hybrid powertrain delivers a total output of 242 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, which is sent to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. This model features exclusive 17-inch wheels, three levels of regenerative braking, and Kia's E-Handling system for improved handling and control.
Kia offers the hybrid option on four trims of the Carnival: LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine remains available on all trims as well, producing 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid model is expected to cost around $2000 more than the gas-only version.
Additional features included in the hybrid model are the E-Ride system, which utilizes specially tuned shocks to alleviate the impact of bumps, and the evasive assist system, which aids in vehicle control during emergency maneuvers.
Enhanced Technology and Safety Features
The 2025 Kia Carnival comes equipped with the latest operating system called Connected Car Navigation Cockpit. This new system offers faster performance and user-friendly controls accessible via the touchscreen. Rear passengers also have access to a rear entertainment system with two 14.6-inch screens that can stream video and mirror devices.
In terms of safety, the Carnival now features the Highway Driving Assist 2, which helps maintain a safe distance behind the vehicle in front and within the lane on certain highways. It also assists with lane changes. Additionally, the Carnival offers a digital key that allows drivers to use their smartphones as virtual keys and share them with others via text message.
The 2025 Carnival is expected to be released for sale in the summer, with pricing details to be announced soon.
