Kia has unveiled the pricing details for the refreshed 2025 Carnival
Kia has unveiled the pricing details for the refreshed 2025 Carnival, featuring a bolder design, next-gen technology, and a new turbo-hybrid powertrain. The 2025 Carnival, designed to enhance its multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) appeal, will start at an MSRP of $36,500, with the new Carnival Hybrid variant starting at $40,500.
Pricing Overview
Trim Levels/Pricing – MSRP (excluding $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
Design and Features
The 2025 Carnival showcases a refreshed design language, blending bold exterior elements with a sleek, high-tech interior. Key exterior features include a grand sculptural grille, detailed cube-like headlights, Kia’s signature Star Map lighting in the front and rear, and geometric wheel designs ranging from 17 to 19 inches
(EX trims and above come standard with 19-inch wheels).
Inside, the Carnival offers a sophisticated cabin with advanced technology. A standard dashboard panel integrates a 4.2-inch TFT and 12.3-inch screen, complete with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. EX trims and above feature a digital instrumentation upgrade, boasting a 12.3-inch cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment and navigation display on a curved panoramic panel. Six standard USB-C ports are conveniently located throughout the cabin, along with two power outlets and two 115V inverters (available on SX and SX-P trims).
Seating and Convenience
The 2025 Carnival continues to prioritize passenger comfort and flexibility. The “Slide-Flex” seating for 8-passenger versions (except those with optional VIP Lounge Seats) includes a sliding second row, while removable second-row seats and fold-in-floor third-row seats enhance cargo versatility. Dual power sliding doors with hands-free open are standard, with EX trims and above adding family-friendly features such as an in-cabin camera, in-cabin intercom, and Quiet Mode.
Advanced Technology
Kia’s next-generation Connected Car Navigation Cockpit operating system debuts in the Carnival, enabling over-the-air updates. The Carnival also includes a standard voice recognition system for key commands like opening windows or adjusting climate control, with optional driver convenience features including an 11-inch full-color Head-Up Display, Full Display Mirror, and Ultrawide-based Digital Key 2.0.
Performance and Powertrain
The Carnival’s performance remains robust, with an available 3.5-liter V6 GDI engine delivering 287 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. torque, with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The newly introduced Carnival Hybrid features a 1.6-liter turbo-hybrid engine paired with a 54kW motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission, producing a combined output of 242 horsepower and 271 lb.-ft. of torque.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The 2025 Carnival is equipped with an updated suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), reflecting Kia’s commitment to safety. Standard features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, now enhanced with Junction Crossing, Lane-change Oncoming, Lane-change Side, and Evasive Steering Assist on SX models and above. SX trims and higher also come standard with Highway Driving Assist 2, a driver convenience system designed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead, keep the vehicle within lane markers on certain highways, and assist in lane changes under specific conditions.
Several models, including the 2025 EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excluding HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excluding HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride, are proudly assembled in the United States using U.S. and globally sourced parts.
This strategic introduction of the hybrid powertrain in the 2025 Kia Carnival lineup, combined with the advanced technology and enhanced safety features, positions the Carnival as a versatile and appealing choice for consumers looking for a sophisticated and eco-friendly multi-purpose vehicle.