2025 Kia Carnival: A Stylish Minivan with Substance

Kia hit the ground running with the Carnival in 2022, offering a minivan option that wasn't just practical, but downright desirable. The 2025 Carnival takes things a step further, with a refresh that combines a sharper look, a new hybrid powertrain option, and some tech tweaks to solidify its place as a contender in the minivan segment.

Fresh Threads, Spacious Interior

The most noticeable change for 2025 is the exterior redesign. Borrowing design cues from Kia's electric EV9, the Carnival gets a more aggressive look with a larger grille, sharper headlights, and the brand's signature "Star Map" LED running lights. The restyled taillights and wheels complete the makeover, giving the Carnival a more contemporary presence.

Thankfully, the spacious interior that made the Carnival a hit remains. With seating for up to eight passengers, the cabin is comfortable and versatile. The second-row seats in particular deserve a mention, offering reclining capabilities with built-in footrests for ultimate relaxation on long journeys. Fold the second and third rows down, and you'll unlock a whopping 145.1 cubic feet of cargo space, making the Carnival a hauling champ.

Kia hasn't skimped on materials either. The cabin uses a combination of soft-touch plastics and higher-grade materials in upper trims, giving it a more upscale feel. The redesigned center console offers improved ergonomics, while the climate control panel is now separate and mounted on the dashboard for easier access.

Tech Upgrade and Safety Focus

The Carnival gets Kia's latest infotainment system, which boasts a user-friendly interface and a more robust voice assistant. This means you can control various functions like navigation and audio using voice commands, making for a more convenient driving experience. Rear-seat passengers are also treated to a "Connected Car Rear Cockpit" entertainment suite with available multiple 14.6-inch HD screens, keeping them occupied on long trips.

Safety remains a priority, with the Carnival offering a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features. These include forward collision avoidance with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims add even more features like a surround-view camera system and highway driving assist for enhanced safety on the road.

Hybrid Power joins the Party

A significant addition for 2025 is the new turbocharged hybrid powertrain option. This combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total output of 245 horsepower. While exact fuel economy figures haven't been released yet, expect the hybrid Carnival to offer a significant improvement over the standard gasoline-powered version, which is rated for 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

There's still a 3.5-liter V6 engine available for those who prioritize power over fuel efficiency. This puts out 287 horsepower and offers a smooth driving experience, but at the expense of gas mileage.

Trims and Pricing

The 2025 Carnival will be offered in five trim levels: LX, EX, SX, SX Prestige, and the hybrid-exclusive SX Prestige Hybrid. Pricing is expected to start around $35,000 for the base LX trim and climb to around $48,000 for the fully loaded SX Prestige Hybrid. The EX trim offers the best balance between features and price, while the SX Prestige goes all out with luxury touches and advanced technology.

The Verdict: A compelling Choice for Minivan Seekers

The 2025 Kia Carnival builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, offering a stylish design, a spacious and comfortable interior, and a long list of features. The addition of the hybrid powertrain makes it a more fuel-efficient option, while the tech upgrades further enhance its appeal. While it may not be the most exciting vehicle on the road, the Carnival excels at what it's designed to do: provide a comfortable, convenient, and feature-rich transportation solution for families. With its competitive pricing and well-rounded package, the 2025 Kia Carnival is a compelling choice for minivan shoppers looking for a blend of style, substance, and value.