Haul the Crew, the Gear, and the Good Times: The 2026 Kia Carnival Has You Covered

The 2026 Kia Carnival continues to redefine what a family vehicle can be. Built for drivers who want space, style, and strength in one package, the Carnival blends the versatility of a minivan with the bold attitude of an SUV. Whether running errands around the metro or heading to the Lake of the Ozarks for a long weekend, this vehicle keeps every journey comfortable, connected, and confident.

Originally introduced in 2022, the Carnival made an immediate impression for its premium look and impressive feature set here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. A major update in 2025 gave it fresh styling and more technology, and the 2026 model continues that momentum with the same combination of practicality, innovation, and performance that drivers have come to expect from Kia.

Performance That’s Ready for Every Trip

Under the hood, every 2026 Carnival comes equipped with a powerful V6 engine that delivers smooth and responsive acceleration. With front-wheel drive and an advanced eight-speed automatic transmission, it offers a confident, composed drive whether you’re merging onto the highway or navigating city streets in Kansas City.

Drivers will appreciate how light the steering feels, making tight parking lots or busy intersections easy to handle. The suspension is tuned for comfort, allowing the Carnival to glide over Missouri’s mix of city roads and rolling countryside. Even with a full cabin of passengers, this minivan maintains stability and balance that inspire confidence behind the wheel.

For families who love the outdoors, the Carnival offers a towing capability strong enough to handle small trailers, bikes, or weekend gear. It’s a great match for adventures, whether that means a camping trip in the Ozarks or an impromptu lake getaway.

Refined Comfort and Flexible Seating

Step inside the Carnival and the first impression is premium comfort. The cabin design feels both modern and inviting, with quality materials, thoughtful finishes, and a layout that emphasizes convenience. Available seating for seven or eight passengers makes it ideal for larger families or anyone who frequently travels with friends and extra cargo.

The first and second rows provide generous space for adults to stretch out, and the seats are well-cushioned for long drives. On higher trims, the available VIP Lounge seats in the second row transform the experience with power adjustments, ventilation, and extendable leg rests. These seats make even long road trips feel like first-class travel.

Large sliding doors make getting in and out of the vehicle a breeze, especially helpful for parents loading up kids, strollers, or sports equipment. The cabin layout also offers smart storage areas throughout, including a spacious center console and plenty of cupholders and cubbies for everyone on board.

Cargo Space That Works as Hard as You Do

One of the Carnival’s biggest advantages is its flexible cargo space. Behind the third row, there’s enough room for everyday items like groceries or backpacks. When it’s time for something bigger, like home improvement supplies, luggage, or outdoor gear, the rear seats fold down to create a massive flat load area.

Even with every seat filled, the Carnival provides smart solutions for keeping the cabin organized. Families will love the low lift-over height and wide rear opening that make loading large items easy. Whether it’s tailgating at a Chiefs game or packing for a weekend in Branson, this vehicle adapts quickly to whatever the day demands.

Technology That Connects and Simplifies

The 2026 Carnival embraces modern tech in a way that enhances every drive. The dashboard features a sleek dual-screen setup, with a 12.3-inch infotainment display alongside a matching digital instrument cluster on upper trims. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing effortless access to music, navigation, and apps without messy cables.

Multiple USB ports are located throughout the cabin so every passenger can stay powered up, and available wireless charging adds another level of convenience. Premium audio options, including a Bose sound system, create a rich listening experience whether you’re enjoying a podcast or your favorite playlist.

The interface itself is simple and intuitive, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. Voice recognition allows easy hands-free adjustments, and the available in-cabin camera lets the driver check on second- and third-row passengers without turning around, perfect for families with younger kids.

Safety You Can Count On

Kia has built the Carnival with a strong commitment to safety. A full suite of driver-assistance systems comes standard, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assistance, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. These systems work together to provide an extra layer of confidence in busy traffic or on long highway stretches.

Advanced options such as adaptive cruise control with lane-centering, a 360-degree surround-view camera, and a head-up display are available on higher trims. These features give the driver a clear view of what’s around the vehicle and make it easier to stay aware of changing road conditions.

Child seat installation is straightforward thanks to a well-designed LATCH system, and wide rear doors make it simple to secure car seats or help kids climb in.

Quality and Long-Term Confidence

Kia’s reputation for reliability continues to grow, and the Carnival reflects that with solid build quality and long-lasting dependability. Each model is backed by one of the strongest warranty programs in the industry, offering long-term peace of mind to families and commuters alike.

From the engine and transmission to the interior finishes, every detail is crafted to deliver lasting comfort and performance. Whether the day involves carpools, road trips, or weekend adventures, the Carnival is designed to handle life’s demands with ease.

Trim Options for Every Need

The 2026 Carnival lineup includes several trims, each offering a thoughtful balance of technology, comfort, and design. Even the entry model is well-equipped, with features like power-sliding doors, tri-zone automatic climate control, and advanced safety technology.

As you move up the range, you’ll find amenities such as heated and ventilated front seats, a power liftgate, dual sunroofs, and luxurious second-row seating. The top-tier trim adds exclusive finishes and technology designed to elevate the family driving experience even further.

The Ultimate Family Vehicle for Modern Life

The 2026 Kia Carnival is more than just a minivan; it’s a statement of versatility, innovation, and confidence. With its bold SUV-inspired styling, generous interior space, and thoughtful technology, it’s built for drivers who want the best of all worlds.

For busy families here at the Jim Butler Kia, this vehicle offers a perfect mix of strength, sophistication, and everyday practicality. Whether the destination is across town or across the state, the Carnival delivers comfort, capability, and peace of mind with every mile.

Sustainable, Stylish, and So Ready for Road Trips: The 2026 Kia EV9 Is Your Electric Escape Pod

The all-new 2026 Kia EV9 brings modern electric luxury to families who want space, comfort, and impressive all-electric performance. With available seating for up to seven passengers, a range of over 300 miles, and a well-crafted, tech-forward interior, this SUV is designed to make every drive feel effortless. About the same size as the popular Kia Telluride, the EV9 delivers a sophisticated electric experience while offering the practicality and space today’s drivers expect.

Available in several well-equipped trims, the EV9 offers rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive depending on configuration. Most models feature all-wheel drive as standard, giving drivers the confidence to tackle any season here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

Though similar in size to the Telluride, the EV9 leans more toward premium territory in every sense. Even the base model is filled with upscale materials and cutting-edge technology. For those who want maximum performance, the EV9 GT-Line leads the way with the highest horsepower and a suite of luxury and technology upgrades. Still, every version of the EV9 feels elevated, blending quiet refinement with powerful capability.

Room to Relax

Inside, the 2026 Kia EV9 impresses immediately with its open, spacious layout. Kia designed it to provide the kind of comfort families need for long days on the road. The EV9 is just under an inch longer than the Telluride but features a wheelbase that’s over seven inches longer. That stretch translates to noticeably more legroom and a flat floor that gives everyone space to stretch out. Because the EV9’s electric platform eliminates the need for a transmission tunnel, even third-row passengers enjoy excellent comfort and room to move.

Depending on configuration, the EV9 offers either a second-row bench for seating up to seven or available captain’s chairs for six passengers. The third row is impressively accommodating for adults, with generous headroom and easy access. Every seat feels airy and comfortable, thanks to the EV9’s upright stance, large windows, and slim roof pillars that provide outstanding visibility.

The cabin experience is elevated even further by Kia’s attention to quietness. The EV9 is engineered to keep road and wind noise to a minimum, creating a serene environment for conversation or music. The ride quality strikes the perfect balance between smooth and composed, ideal for daily commutes or weekend escapes.

Elevated Comfort and Technology

Kia’s thoughtful approach to design shines in the EV9’s interior. Every trim level features soft-touch materials, premium finishes, and eco-conscious upholstery. All seats are wrapped in high-quality SynTex material, a durable and sustainable alternative to leather, offering both comfort and a refined appearance.

Even the entry-level EV9 includes amenities that enhance convenience and comfort. Standard features include tri-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. Stepping up to higher trims adds even more indulgence, such as a heated steering wheel, built-in rear window shades, and available second-row VIP Relaxation seats that recline and include extendable leg rests.

Technology is another area where the EV9 shines. The modern dashboard layout features dual 12.3-inch displays, one for digital driving information and the other for infotainment. A smaller screen between them displays climate settings, keeping the cabin organized and intuitive. Physical toggle switches below the screens allow for quick adjustments to temperature and media without needing to navigate menus.

Every EV9 comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, wireless charging, multiple USB ports, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot to keep everyone connected. The innovative Passenger Talk intercom system allows the driver to speak clearly to all three rows, a thoughtful touch for busy families. Proximity keyless entry and push-button start add extra convenience for on-the-go lifestyles.

Upper trims introduce even more advanced technology, including Kia’s Blind Spot View Monitor, a head-up display, 360-degree surround-view cameras, ambient interior lighting, and a 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system that fills the cabin with rich, detailed sound.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Every 2026 Kia EV9 is built with safety in mind. Kia includes a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features across all trims. Standard systems include forward collision avoidance with pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high beams. There’s also a rear seat reminder and safe-exit assist, designed to prevent doors from opening into oncoming traffic.

Optional upgrades such as reverse collision avoidance and a digital rearview mirror enhance driver confidence even further. These technologies work seamlessly together, helping the EV9 provide peace of mind whether navigating downtown St. Louis streets or heading out on long highway drives.

Modern Design with a Sustainable Touch

The EV9’s interior design reflects a clean, modern aesthetic inspired by sustainability. Kia uses environmentally responsible materials throughout the cabin, including SynTex upholstery made from recycled plastics and reclaimed materials like discarded fishing nets. Despite its eco-friendly focus, the EV9’s interior feels distinctly upscale, with elegant color combinations such as light gray and black or rich black and brown.

The new Nightfall Edition introduces unique seating materials and finishes, while the GT-Line adds stylish yellow interior accents for a bold, contemporary look. The result is a cabin that feels fresh, sophisticated, and uncluttered, perfectly suited for modern drivers who appreciate both design and purpose.

Cargo and Versatility

Practicality remains a core strength of the 2026 Kia EV9. Even with all three rows in use, the SUV provides 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, plenty for groceries, sports gear, or luggage. Folding the third row expands that space to over 43 cubic feet, and with both the second and third rows folded, the EV9 offers a generous 81.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity. That’s more than enough room for everything from camping equipment to furniture for a new apartment.

The rear seats fold flat with ease, and available power-folding third-row controls make the process simple. A hands-free power tailgate is standard, allowing quick access to the cargo area when your hands are full.

The Future of Family Driving

The 2026 Kia EV9 redefines what a three-row SUV can be. It combines advanced electric performance with the spaciousness, comfort, and practicality families need every day. From the thoughtfully designed cabin and quiet ride to its extensive technology and safety features, every detail has been carefully crafted for modern living.

For St. Louis families ready to embrace the next generation of driving, the Kia EV9 delivers everything an electric SUV should: power, presence, and premium sophistication.

Mud-Slinging Season Is On: Kia’s 2026 Sportage X-Pro Dares the Forester to Follow

The 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige stands as one of the most versatile and capable crossovers in today’s market. Designed for drivers who want a mix of comfort, confidence, and capability, this SUV blends refined styling with features that make it as ready for a city commute as it is for a weekend exploring Missouri’s backroads. The X-Pro Prestige trim brings together upscale appointments, all-terrain readiness, and advanced technology, offering a rare balance of adventure and everyday ease.

The compact crossover segment is one of the most competitive in America, with names like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester all vying for attention. The Sportage X-Pro Prestige confidently joins that conversation by pairing standout design with a high level of real-world versatility. While some trims in this class focus solely on luxury or ruggedness, there exists a thoughtful middle ground, creating a crossover that does both with poise here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis. 

Purpose-Built Design

The 2026 Sportage X-Pro Prestige is a five-passenger SUV that shows how attention to detail can elevate every drive. Its exterior projects strength with athletic lines, a bold grille, and practical ground clearance that inspires confidence on less-traveled routes. Underneath, its suspension and tire setup give it both composure on pavement and sure-footedness on gravel or mud. Drivers who appreciate the peace of mind that comes with extra traction and winter-ready hardware will find this trim exceptionally appealing.

Inside, the cabin continues Kia’s tradition of quality craftsmanship. Every surface feels solid and upscale, and the layout is intuitive. A panoramic display stretches across the dashboard, combining a vibrant digital driver cluster and a 17.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Seating is spacious, the materials are soft-touch, and attention to comfort is evident everywhere. The available heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, and wide glass moonroof create an environment that feels luxurious year-round, whether commuting downtown or heading out to a winter cabin in the Ozarks.

Power That Delivers Confidence

Powering the Sportage X-Pro Prestige is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides smooth, confident acceleration and precise gear changes. Instead of relying on a continuously variable transmission, Kia’s traditional geared setup contributes to a responsive, engaging drive feel. For those who often find themselves navigating highways, winding hills, or dirt roads, this setup ensures steady performance and impressive control.

Drive-mode selection allows the Sportage X-Pro Prestige to adapt seamlessly to varying conditions. With modes for Sport, Snow, Mud, and Sand, the system fine-tunes traction and power delivery to keep you in command. A downhill-descent feature assists in maintaining control on steep grades, particularly useful for drivers who encounter icy or uneven terrain during Midwest winters.

Ready for the Path Less Paved

What sets the X-Pro Prestige apart is its off-pavement confidence. Equipped with 17-inch wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A tires, this trim has the traction and durability to explore unpaved routes without hesitation. These tires enhance grip and stability on loose surfaces while maintaining a quiet, composed ride on city streets and highways. Whether heading to a campsite, lake house, or rural jobsite, the Sportage X-Pro Prestige makes the trip feel effortless.

The combination of capable tires, a compliant suspension, and a well-tuned chassis gives this crossover the ability to smooth out rough surfaces while keeping passengers comfortable. Even when traveling over washboard gravel or uneven dirt paths, the cabin remains serene. For drivers who appreciate the security of knowing their vehicle can handle Missouri’s unpredictable backroads, this trim provides a reassuring sense of control.

Advanced Features for Everyday Life

Beyond performance, the Sportage X-Pro Prestige offers thoughtful technology and comfort features that elevate daily driving. Its full-coverage heated windshield, using an embedded wire heating element, helps quickly clear frost and ice, a feature typically reserved for premium European models. Add to that multi-level heated and ventilated front seats, a power sunshade, and available front skid plate protection, and it becomes clear that Kia engineered this model to handle both convenience and capability in equal measure.

Practical touches like a spare tire and a generous cargo area add to the SUV’s real-world usability. With the rear seats folded flat, the Sportage offers ample room for luggage, outdoor gear, or home-improvement hauls. Kia’s attention to details such as quiet interior design and user-friendly infotainment controls ensures that long drives remain enjoyable for everyone on board.

Built-In Peace of Mind

One of Kia’s standout advantages continues to be its industry-leading warranty coverage, offering extended protection and confidence long after leaving the dealership lot. For drivers comparing models across brands, this alone adds significant long-term value. Combine that assurance with the Sportage’s strong reliability record and advanced safety systems, and it becomes easy to see why so many families and professionals choose Kia for their next crossover.

Designed for the Midwest Lifestyle

The Sportage X-Pro Prestige fits naturally into the rhythm of life in and around St. Louis. Its size makes it easy to navigate tight city streets or crowded parking areas, yet its generous ground clearance and traction-enhancing systems make it equally at home on rural highways or unpaved access roads. From morning commutes to weekend getaways, it offers the comfort of a premium SUV and the readiness of a capable explorer.

For those who enjoy a balance of adventure and refinement, this Sportage trim delivers exactly that. It bridges the gap between traditional crossover convenience and the adventurous spirit of an off-road SUV. Drivers don’t have to compromise between comfort and capability: the Sportage X-Pro Prestige provides both in abundance.

The Final Word

In a world where nearly every automaker offers an adventure-styled crossover, the 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige stands out for doing it right. Its blend of rugged all-terrain readiness, refined comfort, and advanced technology makes it one of the most well-rounded options in its class. With confidence-inspiring handling, an intuitive drive system, and features built for both luxury and longevity, it is more than ready for life in Missouri and beyond.

For families who value safety, comfort, and durability, or for anyone who simply wants a crossover that can go anywhere with confidence, the 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige is a perfect match. It is a vehicle that doesn’t just meet expectations; it redefines what a small SUV can do when innovation meets purpose.