The Errand MVP: How the 2025 Kia Carnival V6 Makes Busy Days an Enjoyable Breeze!

Kia is redefining the minivan experience with the 2025 Carnival, with a stronghold on our commitment to modern family transportation. Since re-entering the segment with the Sedona in 2015 and following up with the Carnival in 2022, Kia is leading the way in crafting practical and innovative family vehicles. The latest update to the Carnival brings a hybrid option and a wealth of tech features, making it an ideal choice for today’s busy families. 

We took the refreshed V6 model out for a spin here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis to explore its family-friendly capabilities.

What’s Fresh for 2025?

The 2025 Carnival lineup is brimming with exciting upgrades, particularly with the new hybrid model. While the V6 engine remains reliable, the exterior has been redesigned for a fresh look. Inside, the infotainment system has received a significant boost, with the standout feature being the dual-display setup available in the top-tier SX Prestige trim. This includes Kia's Connected Car Rear Cockpit displays, which let rear-seat passengers control climate settings, play games, and even sing karaoke, turning every drive into an entertainment experience.

Powered by a 3.5-liter V6, the Carnival delivers 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Plus, it offers flexible seating configurations for seven or eight passengers, ensuring comfort for everyone on board.

Real-World Driving Experience

The 2025 Kia Carnival V6 shines in everyday driving scenarios. It accelerates smoothly and quietly, making it an excellent choice for family outings. Whether you're merging onto the highway or overtaking slower vehicles, the Carnival maintains solid performance, even when fully loaded with passengers and gear.

Kia has refined the suspension for the 2025 model, enhancing stability during cornering and providing a comfortable ride over bumps. This improvement means that drivers can enjoy a more connected and enjoyable experience on the road.

Performance Metrics

In our test of the loaded SX Prestige variant, the Carnival V6 demonstrated impressive acceleration, clocking 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.5 seconds. While the stopping distances and handling times are slightly longer than those of earlier models, the overall performance remains strong and reliable, ensuring that the 2025 Carnival meets the needs of modern families.

Minivan Showdown

In the competitive minivan market, the Carnival V6 stands out among rivals like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. It accelerates slightly quicker than the Pacifica, showcasing its sporty edge. The Honda Odyssey, while offering different strengths, excels in handling, making it another appealing option for families.

The Carnival V6 delivers fuel efficiency ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, positioning it well in the segment. For families focused on eco-friendliness, the new Carnival Hybrid, along with other options like the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, presents appealing alternatives.

Ready to Elevate Your Family Adventures? Test Drive the Kia Carnival Today!

Ultimately, the true measure of a minivan lies in how well it accommodates family life. The 2025 Kia Carnival excels in this regard, offering practical seating solutions combined with innovative tech features such as a family-view camera and voice-activated controls. It’s designed to enhance the family experience, making outings easier and more enjoyable.

As the minivan landscape continues to evolve, the 2025 Kia Carnival stands out as a versatile and modern option for families seeking a reliable vehicle. Get ready to connect with the future of driving as we explore this model’s unique place in the market—stay with us during our favorite season of fall to feel the thrill!

2025 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo Review: Bold Looks, Turbo Power, and a Style Statement

Kia has made a bold move in the compact sedan segment with the introduction of the all-new 2025 Kia K4, a successor to the popular Forte. The transformation is striking, elevating the K4 with a sharp, edgy, and chic design that truly sets it apart from the competition. It's more than just a visual upgrade—it’s a significant evolution that combines bold aesthetics with notable performance. 

We couldn’t wait to test out the K4’s road manners here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis to see if it drives as impressively as it looks!

A Bold New Design Meets Dynamic Performance

The 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo makes an instant impression with its striking appearance. The GT-Line trim adds a sporty body kit that not only enhances its aggressive styling but also improves its driving dynamics. Kia has equipped the GT-Line with a multilink rear suspension, which sharpens the car’s handling and makes it more responsive compared to the standard torsion-beam setup.

But what really sets the K4 GT-Line Turbo apart is its powertrain. While the base model comes with a 2.0-liter I-4 engine that delivers 147 horsepower, our test vehicle was equipped with the more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged I-4 engine. This turbo engine delivers 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, making it a fun and lively choice for drivers who want a bit more excitement behind the wheel. The power is sent to the front wheels via a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, which keeps the drive engaging yet effortless.

The K4 GT-Line Turbo delivers solid performance, with the ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 7.1 seconds. This is strong execution for a compact sedan, keeping up with most rivals in the segment. While there are some faster options available, the K4 Turbo’s balance of power and handling will satisfy most drivers. It also posted a quarter-mile time of 15.5 seconds, further highlighting its competitive edge in the class.

Roomy, Sporty, and Practical

Inside, the K4 GT-Line Turbo doesn’t just impress with its looks—it also delivers in terms of space and comfort. One of the standout features of the K4 is its roomy interior, especially in the back seat. Passengers in the rear will appreciate the generous legroom and headroom, which are better than what you’ll find in many other compact sedans. Up front, the space is more typical for the segment, but the cabin's layout and design make the interior feel even more expansive.

The trunk offers ample space for everyday needs such as soccer practice or grocery runs, and for those who need even more cargo capacity, Kia plans to introduce a K4 Hatchback soon. This version will bring greater versatility to the lineup, making the K4 an even more attractive option for drivers seeking a small car with big practicality.

The K4 GT-Line Turbo excels with nimble and agile performance. The multilink rear suspension plays a key role in keeping the car stable and composed on the road, even during spirited driving. The steering feels precise and well-weighted, contributing to a sporty, engaging driving experience whether you're weaving through city streets or taking on winding backroads. It’s clear that Kia has engineered the K4 for everyday comfort and driving enjoyment.

Design and Technology: A Stylish, Tech-Savvy Sedan

Kia has not only focused on making the K4 fun to drive but has also poured attention into its design and tech features. The K4 is packed with thoughtful styling details that elevate its look. Sleek touches like hidden rear door handles, sharp lighting accents, and a creased, aerodynamic body give it a futuristic and elegant appearance. These design elements work together to make the K4 a true style standout among compact sedans.

Step inside, and the K4’s cabin impresses with its blend of sophistication and technology. The GT-Line trim includes a modern triple-display infotainment system, featuring Kia’s latest software interface. The attention to detail is evident in everything from the unique design of the steering wheel to the premium feel of the interior materials. Kia has put significant thought into designing the K4's interior to be stylish and user-friendly.

A Strong Contender in the Compact Segment

The 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo isn’t just a redesign—it’s a bold new direction for Kia in the compact car market. By combining dynamic performance, spacious comfort, cutting-edge technology, and standout style, the K4 manages to appeal to a broad range of drivers. Whether you’re drawn to its eye-catching design or its responsive driving dynamics, the K4 delivers a versatile experience that makes it a top contender in its class.

As Kia continues to expand the K4 lineup with upcoming hybrid and hatchback models, it’s clear that the K4 is more than just a facelifted Forte—it’s a serious competitor in the compact sedan segment. The 2025 K4 GT-Line Turbo is already a strong offering, and with more variants on the way, the K4 is set to make a lasting impression for years to come. 

Fuel Economy Just Got Fun: Exploring the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid’s Standout Features!

The Carnival has garnered a dedicated following at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, and for good reason! Known for its strong performance in extensive testing, the introduction of the 2025 Carnival Hybrid enhances its appeal even further.

With the previous model achieving a commendable 21 mpg combined, the new hybrid variant offers an exciting opportunity for improved fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice in the family vehicle segment. The launch of the 2025 Carnival Hybrid showcases Kia's commitment to innovation and meeting the needs of customers.

Impressive Fuel Economy

The new Carnival Hybrid demonstrates an impressive leap in fuel efficiency, now rated at 33 mpg combined—an outstanding 57% improvement over the previous 3.5-liter V-6 engine's 21 mpg. In urban driving conditions, the hybrid excels even further, achieving 34 mpg. This enhancement underscores Kia's dedication to providing an efficient and economical option for families.

Under the Hood

The hybrid variant features Hyundai's Gamma II turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four engine, producing 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It pairs seamlessly with an electric motor that delivers 72 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful non-plug-in hybrid offered by Kia. With a six-speed automatic transmission replacing the previous CVT, the total output reaches 242 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid's torque exceeds the V-6, offering an engaging driving experience.

On the road, the Carnival Hybrid operates quietly, seamlessly integrating with the electric motor to deliver impressive performance capabilities, allowing it to accelerate to 60 mph in just 7.8 seconds—matching the speed of the V-6 model. The transmission shifts smoothly through gears, maintaining power even at higher speeds, which is noteworthy for a family-oriented vehicle.

Driving Experience

The Carnival Hybrid is equipped with shift paddles for controlling brake regeneration, allowing for three adjustable regeneration settings. This innovative feature enhances driving control and efficiency. The 1.2 kWh lithium-ion battery is designed for hybrid use, providing a reliable energy source for various driving conditions. With this advanced battery system, drivers can enjoy a seamless blend of power and efficiency, ensuring a smooth ride whether navigating city streets or tackling winding country roads. 

The overall driving experience is smooth and quiet, similar to the standard Carnival. The vehicle handles bumps effectively, minimizing road noise and providing a flat and stable ride. During cornering, the Carnival Hybrid performs admirably, demonstrating minimal body roll and achieving a respectable 0.80 g at the test track, accommodating up to eight passengers comfortably.

Stylish Updates

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid embraces a more SUV-like appearance, featuring aggressive headlights, a pronounced hood, and a bold grille. The rear design has also been refreshed with a deeper spoiler and redesigned taillights, enhancing its visual appeal.

Inside, the Carnival Hybrid showcases a modernized display with clearer graphics, transitioning from the traditional binnacle design. The updated climate control system integrates HVAC and infotainment functions for added convenience. Additionally, the hybrid variant includes a hybrid-specific shifter and an enlarged cupholder, perfect for larger water bottles.

A Rear Seat Entertainment package is available, featuring two sizable screens to enhance the in-car experience. The luxurious second-row captain's chairs provide exceptional comfort, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers.

Conclusion

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid presents a compelling option for family car buyers, combining enhanced fuel efficiency with a smooth driving experience. Starting at $41,895, it offers a hybrid variant for an additional $2,000 over the V-6 model.

While the exterior differences may be subtle, the hybrid provides a significant advantage in fuel savings, potentially recouping the price difference within two to three years. This makes the Carnival Hybrid an excellent choice for those seeking economy and practicality in their family vehicle.

Unstoppable & Upgraded: Kia’s 2025 Telluride X-Line and X-Pro Shine

The 2025 Kia Telluride rolls into the crisp autumn air with a fresh lineup of features, making it the perfect SUV for families and adventure seekers alike, especially as fall kicks into high gear! With upgraded safety systems, enhanced off-road capabilities, and added luxury touches in the X-Line and X-Pro trims, the Telluride is well-equipped to handle everything from family outings to autumn getaways. Here at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis, finding the perfect Telluride to suit your lifestyle has never been easier.

New Safety Features for Peace of Mind

One of the standout additions for 2025 is the inclusion of second-row side-impact airbags, offering increased safety for passengers seated in the back. The Telluride also introduces the latest Highway Driving Assist 1.5 across all models, improving driver assistance with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering steering. These features ensure every journey is smoother, whether you’re tackling weekend road trips or the daily school run.

As a top contender in its class, the Telluride incorporates a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Also standard are features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit assist, making it one of the safest vehicles in its category.

Power and Performance for Any Adventure

Under the hood, the 2025 Telluride delivers dependable performance thanks to its robust 3.8-liter V6 engine, which provides 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this engine ensures ample power for highway merging, city driving, and off-road trails. While front-wheel drive is standard on most trims, all-wheel drive is available in various configurations, enhancing traction and stability on rugged paths and during unpredictable autumn weather.

Regarding towing, the X-Pro trim brings enhanced capability with a raised ride height and an upgraded towing capacity of 5,500 pounds—making it a perfect companion for weekend camping trips or hauling gear for fall activities. The Telluride’s well-tuned suspension delivers a composed ride over various terrains, from city streets to backcountry roads, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful drive through the fall foliage.

Luxury Meets Utility in the X-Line and X-Pro

The off-road-oriented X-Line and X-Pro trims offer a unique blend of ruggedness and refined luxury, making them well-suited for the active autumn season. Both trims come with standard Terracotta-colored leather upholstery, lending an earthy elegance that complements fall’s rich tones. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides essential vehicle information at a glance, so you can stay focused on the road while staying informed.

The X-Line trim boasts distinctive black exterior accents and a self-leveling rear suspension, giving it a sleek yet capable look that turns heads in any setting. For even greater off-road prowess, the X-Pro trim adds all-terrain tires and a 110-volt inverter in the cargo area, ideal for tailgating or powering outdoor equipment on autumn adventures.

Technology That Keeps You Connected

Inside the Telluride, drivers and passengers alike are treated to an array of high-tech features. A 12.3-inch touchscreen comes standard, providing seamless access to navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. For families with busy schedules, the Telluride’s advanced connectivity options make it easy to stay in touch, find your way, and entertain the whole crew.

In higher trims, the Telluride offers features like a head-up display, Harman Kardon premium audio system, and Kia’s Digital Key 2 Touch, which lets you use your smartphone as a key. Whether you’re rushing between activities or setting off on a weekend getaway, the Telluride has everything needed to keep up with a busy lifestyle.

The Perfect Companion for a Busy Autumn 

Fall brings a sense of renewed excitement, from back-to-school routines to fall festivals and spontaneous weekend trips. The 2025 Kia Telluride, with its spacious interior, ample cargo room, and comfortable seating, is well-prepared to handle it all. With room for up to eight passengers, there’s plenty of space for carpooling, pumpkin picking, or packing up for a scenic drive through the countryside.

The Telluride is more than just a vehicle—it’s a trusted companion for every adventure, big or small. Halloween Night at Grant’s Farm provides the opportunity to hop on a haunted tram ride with the Headless Horseman, enjoy enchanting magic shows at the amphitheater, and join the monster mash at the lively courtyard dance party. This fall, experience all the Kia Telluride has to offer at Jim Butler Kia of St. Louis and discover why this SUV continues to earn its place as a family favorite year after year.

Get Wired For Wow-Level Performance: Kia is Eyeing an Electric Stinger GT Successor!

Get ready to electrify your drive—Kia is gearing up to replace the iconic Stinger GT with a next-gen electric successor that promises to redefine performance!In 2024, we have officially emerged as a trailblazer in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering some of the most impressive and sought-after EVs available today. With cutting-edge technology, striking design, and exhilarating performance, Kia is now a brand that commands attention.

As the electric revolution accelerates, Kia isn’t just keeping pace; they are leading the charge! A recent report from Autocar in the UK reveals that Kia’s lineup of EVs is set to expand even further. The exciting part here at Jim Butler Kia of St Louis? There's talk of a potential new model that could replace the beloved Kia Stinger sport sedan. While the Stinger made a name for itself with its stylish performance, the idea of an electric successor opens the door to an exciting new chapter for Kia.

This upcoming model is designed to uphold Kia’s reputation for creating thrilling, performance-oriented vehicles while reinforcing their commitment to sustainability. During a recent interview with British media at the Car of the Year test, Kia’s president, Ho-sung Song, shared valuable insights. He highlighted the immediate goal of launching an electric replacement for the popular and affordable Picanto city car, along with several other electrifying projects in the pipeline.

Song also hinted at discussions about a potential “brand-building” vehicle that could serve as a halo car for Kia, similar to the role the Stinger GT once played. Although the Stinger is no longer in production, its legacy inspires a new electric model that reflects Kia's dedication to performance and innovation in this exciting era.

“The type of model we’re considering is currently under study,” Song noted. “We are exploring what kind of vehicle can help elevate the brand. This is what we're focusing on right now.”

The Kia Stinger GT made its debut in 2018, marking a pivotal moment for the brand. It showcased that Kia could deliver more than just practical daily drivers. With its rear-wheel-drive setup and powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, the Stinger GT captured the spirit of iconic sedans and ushered in a bold new era for Kia. It quickly earned the respect of driving enthusiasts, placing Kia firmly in the performance vehicle category.

Even though the Stinger GT was discontinued in 2023, its influence persists, supported by a dedicated fanbase and a robust aftermarket presence that keeps its spirit alive. As Kia continues to evolve its electrification strategy, the potential for a new halo model signals that the essence of the Stinger could be revived, bringing the brand back into the spotlight.

This exciting new EV could continue the performance legacy set by the Stinger GT while showcasing Kia’s innovative approach in the electric vehicle landscape. Over the years, Kia has consistently refined its craft, and the results are impressive. The EV6 GT, for instance, has recently been recognized as Road & Track's inaugural Performance Electric Car of the Year, solidifying its place as one of the most thrilling electric vehicles on the market.

This recognition is significant in today’s competitive electric vehicle landscape. At the heart of Kia’s success is the advanced E-GMP platform, which also underpins high-performance models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. The Ioniq 5 N has received widespread acclaim, not only for its remarkable 641 horsepower but also for its dynamic and engaging driving experience. It proves that electric vehicles can deliver the same level of excitement as traditional combustion-engine cars.

Now, the thought of channeling that kind of performance into a sleek, halo-style electric vehicle, reminiscent of the beloved Stinger sedan, is incredibly exciting. Just imagine the bold design and precise handling of a Stinger-inspired electric car, paired with the power and technology of Kia’s latest EV innovations.

This is the kind of vehicle that could elevate Kia even further, captivating both car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. The vision of a sporty, high-performance electric sedan offers a tantalizing glimpse into Kia’s future, and automotive fans are eagerly watching to see what comes next!