2025 Kia Carnival: Release date, Price, Specs, Pros & Cons

Kia is set to introduce a refreshed version of their popular minivan, the Carnival. While it has been unveiled in its home market, the United States can expect to see it as a 2025 model. This updated version of the Carnival now resembles Kia’s lineup of electric vehicles, even though a fully electric Carnival release is not on the immediate horizon. 

The 2025 Carnival is expected to retain its 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, despite announcing a hybridized 1.6-liter turbo option in Korea. This move aims to position the Carnival as a more competitive choice against the Toyota Sienna Hybrid, which has the added advantage of optional all-wheel drive, a feature currently absent in the Carnival. Get its release date, price, and features. 

2025 Kia Carnival Redesign

Anticipation surrounds the potential launch of a redesigned model for the Kia Carnival, yet as of now, concrete details regarding the new model remain undisclosed. The company has not officially communicated any information about the redesign of the Kia Carnival. 

The initial iteration of this luxury SUV was introduced in 2018, followed by the release of its second generation in 2023. Presently, the latest generation is available in the market, offering consumers a blend of performance and luxury.

What Sets It Apart From its Rivals?

The 2025 Kia Carnival faces competition from other minivans in the market, including the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica, and Volkswagen Multivan. While each competitor offers its own set of features and strengths, the Carnival sets itself apart with its modern design, upscale interior, and advanced technology. 

Compared to the Toyota Sienna, known for its hybrid powertrain, the Carnival offers a more stylish exterior and a more luxurious cabin experience. While the Honda Odyssey boasts a reputation for reliability and family-friendliness, the Carnival stands out with its sleeker design and more advanced infotainment system.

2025 Kia Carnival Release date

The company has not confirmed the official release date for the 2025 Kia Carnival. However, according to reports from various media sources, there is speculation that the 2025 Carnival might be made available in the latter part of 2024. Currently, there is no information about the booking date. We will keep you informed with updates if the company releases any details regarding the launch date of the upcoming Kia Carnival.

2025 Kia Carnival Price

If you are interested in the pricing for the 2025 Kia Carnival, we apologize for the unavailability of precise information at this time, as the company has not yet revealed pricing details. However, as a reference point, the 2024 Kia Carnival is offered in five distinct trims, with prices spanning from approximately $33,200 to $46,300. Using this as a reference, we can offer an estimated conjecture concerning the pricing and trim options for the 2025 model year.

Trims	Price (est.)
LX	$34,000
LX Seat Package	$36,000
EX	$40,000
SX	$43,000
SX Prestige	$47,000

Kia Carnival Interior And Cargo

While Kia has not released any images of the interior for the updated Carnival, it’s reasonable to assume that, given the extent of the exterior redesign, there may be some changes to the cabin. One potential area for improvement is the infotainment system, particularly in base models, which currently feature a 4.2-inch TFT LCD supervision meter cluster. It’s possible that Kia will enhance the materials used in the cabin, taking cues from the updated K5 sedan.

In terms of features, we can expect the continuation of standard and available options, such as eight-way power-adjustable front seats, a driver’s memory system, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row seats. The Kia Carnival is likely to be offered in both seven- and eight-seater configurations, with seating materials starting with cloth and progressing to artificial leather and genuine leather.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Unique and recognizable design
• Extensive features for the price point
• Comfortable seating
• Impressive warranty coverage

Cons

• Handling characteristics typical of a minivan
• Some technological features could use refinement

New Kia Carnival Exterior And Colors

• The exterior of The Kia Carnival received acclaim for its SUV-like design, departing from the traditional, boxy minivan look. In this updated version, Kia has drawn inspiration from its electric vehicle (EV) lineup, incorporating elements from its Opposites United design language.
• The most noticeable changes are found in the front of the vehicle, with the introduction of new vertically-shaped headlights that feature Signature Starmap Lighting for daytime running lights. The grille has been reshaped and now includes new black detailing, and the bumper and lower skid plate have also been modified. A character line runs along the side, visually connecting the corners of the new front and rear lighting clusters. Additionally, new alloy wheel designs similar to those on the EV9 have been introduced.
• The rear of the Carnival has also seen changes, with the taillights now sporting a new vertical shape that mirrors the design of the headlights. The placement of the license plate has been slightly adjusted to sit lower than before.
• Kia has also mentioned a new trim level called “Gravity” with specific design elements, including unique wheels, a distinctive grille, and blacked-out features such as the roof rack, C-pillar, door garnish, front and rear skid plates, and the tailgate. It is hoped that this trim will be available in other markets as well.

Kia Carnival Engine And Performance

The Kia Carnival models sold in the USA are not expected to undergo any significant engine changes. Therefore, the naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine will continue to power the vehicle. This V6 engine produces 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD). Based on past independent tests, the Carnival is capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in a little over seven seconds, which is more than sufficient for a family-oriented minivan.

The Carnival boasts a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, matching the capabilities of the Sienna and Odyssey. It’s worth noting that the appeal of the Carnival could be enhanced if it offered an optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system and a hybrid powertrain. In Kia’s domestic market, a 1.6-liter turbo hybrid powertrain has been announced for the Carnival.

Comfortable and Smooth Ride

The Mitsubishi Outlander offers a comfortable and smooth ride, making it a suitable choice for various road surfaces. The front seats are well-padded and provide a high level of comfort, even during extended road trips. One notable feature is the availability of climate controls for rear passengers, which is a relatively rare offering in this vehicle class. The heated seats in the Outlander can become pleasantly warm, especially when set to the highest setting.

FAQs

When will the 2025 Kia Carnival be available in the USA?

While an official release date hasn’t been confirmed, it’s anticipated that the 2025 GMC Terrain will be available in the USA by mid-2025.

What are the key competitors for the 2025 Kia Carnival?

The Kia Carnival competes with minivans such as the Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, and Honda Odyssey, which offer features like hybrid technology and all-wheel drive that the Carnival currently lacks.

What Will the 2025 Kia Carnival Cost?

While specific figures haven’t been revealed, it’s anticipated that the starting price will be around $35,000, with fully-equipped models reaching close to $50,000.

Conclusion 

The 2025 Kia Carnival is a solid choice for those seeking a practical and well-equipped minivan with a unique design. However, it’s essential for potential buyers to consider their specific needs, especially regarding hybrid technology and all-wheel drive, before making a decision.

The 2025 Kia Carnival is set to continue the model’s tradition of providing a practical and stylish option in the minivan segment. It introduces several notable updates to its exterior design, drawing inspiration from Kia’s electric vehicle lineup, which gives it a more modern and SUV-like appearance.