For 2025, Kia has significantly revamped the Carnival, making it more dynamic than ever before. From a fresh, SUV-inspired exterior to an upgraded, tech-heavy interior, the new Carnival impresses at every turn. The addition of a hybrid option, new exterior styling, and updated features for both the driver and passengers elevate the overall experience.
2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid: Smart, Stylish, and Spacious
One of the most striking updates to the 2025 Carnival is its bold, SUV-like exterior. Gone are the days of the traditional minivan look—this model features sharp angles, darkened accents, and sleek lighting, giving it a modern, rugged feel. When compared to the Sorento, the Carnival’s exterior design feels cohesive and sophisticated, helping it stand out in the crowded minivan market.
Inside, the Carnival continues to impress with its spacious and user-friendly design. The second-row seats, with a versatile 40/20/40 split, allow for easy reconfiguration depending on your needs. Whether you need to seat three people comfortably or create extra legroom for one lucky passenger, the Carnival accommodates all with its sliding seat system. The third-row seating is incredibly comfortable and folds flat when not in use, maximizing cargo space.
Speaking of space, the Carnival offers up to 40 cubic feet behind the third row—impressive by SUV standards. Fold the seats down, and you get a cavernous 87 cubic feet, perfect for hauling everything from luggage to furniture. Whether you're headed out on a family vacation or need to transport larger items, the Carnival delivers.
A Family-Friendly Interior Packed with Tech
Kia has also updated the interior with the latest tech and comfort features. The cabin now boasts a cleaner dash design, making controls easier to find and use. The infotainment system is faster and more responsive, offering seamless integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Plus, the dual sunroof option enhances the overall experience by flooding the cabin with natural light, making long trips more enjoyable.
Families will appreciate the Carnival’s comfort and convenience. The seats are cushy and spacious, especially in the second row, which is ideal for long drives. Kia has also reduced the use of piano-black plastic, addressing previous concerns and creating a more refined, smudge-resistant cabin. Although there are some minor design quirks, such as the climate control system's layout, the Carnival’s interior is still one of the most family-friendly in the segment.
Driving the Carnival Hybrid: Smooth, Efficient, and Fun
Behind the wheel, the 2025 Carnival Hybrid offers an exceptionally smooth and responsive driving experience. Powered by a new 1.6-liter hybrid engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, it delivers 242 horsepower—plenty of power to handle all your family adventures with ease. Despite the more efficient hybrid engine, the Carnival remains impressively agile, offering precise steering and minimal body roll.
Whether you're maneuvering through city streets or cruising effortlessly on the highway, the Carnival Hybrid makes every drive a surprisingly fun and enjoyable experience.
One of the standout features of the hybrid version is its impressive efficiency. Kia estimates up to 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, making the Carnival Hybrid an excellent choice for those seeking great fuel economy. Its efficiency is particularly remarkable given its size and versatility, offering an outstanding balance of performance and economy.
The Verdict
The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid is a triumph in its segment, offering an unbeatable combination of style, functionality, and advanced features. Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle that can handle the daily grind or a road-trip companion that offers both comfort and efficiency, the Carnival checks all the boxes. With its sleek new design, spacious interior, and hybrid powertrain, the 2025 Carnival Hybrid is a top choice for families seeking a versatile, tech-forward ride.
Versatility Meets Efficiency – Test Drive the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid at Jim Butler Kia! Whether it’s family road trips or daily errands, the Carnival Hybrid is ready to impress. Visit us today for a hands-on experience you won’t want to miss!