2025 Kia Carnival MPV
Kia’s minivan – er, MPV – has certainly attracted a number of families since its debut for 2022. They did so by incorporating some SUV elements onto a people mover that offers a lot of space for up to eight passengers.
For 2025, Kia updated the Carnival with its latest design elements to bring it in line with the rest of the lineup. Will these updates attract families to its charms?
The basis of the overall design is to be as sharp as Kia’s new logo. A new front clip incorporates elements from the EV9 electric SUV, with vertical lighting units, additional LED lighting, and a large grille area. The front end seems to be more boxier and flatter than the previous year’s model.
The rear end receives a new “rounder” shape with an extended LED taillight strip that runs along the edge of the rear fenders onto the liftgate. The side profile is a mix of minivan and SUV, which is why the Carnival is distinctive. It continues to be the sharpest looking vehicle in its class.
This 3-D effect on the satin chrome trim of the C-pillar and the 19-inch black finished wheels raises the profile of the SX Prestige tester. They provide the finishing touch on this bold interpretation of this family-oriented people mover.
When you step behind the wheel, there is a new curved panel that houses the two 12.3-inch screens. The one in front of the driver is fully digital and customizable. The other is for the infotainment touchscreen. The center console remains, but there is a new rotary shifter for the transmission.
Kia states that the Carnival has the best-in-class passenger room, with 168 cubic feet of space. It also has a best-in-class maximum cargo space at 145.1 cubic feet. For the cargo hold to expand, the third-row seats fold down to the bumper for better loading of a large number of suitcases or a run to a home improvement store.
There is plenty of space for adult passengers in the second- and third-row. Access to the third row is through a sliding mechanism that also tilts the second-row seatbacks forward. The SX Prestige wears leather seating across all three rows.
Another new element for the 2025 Carnival is the option for a hybrid driveline. The system takes a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor. Combined, this puts down 242 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. This system runs only the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission
We experienced an average of 30.7 MPG for fuel economy.
The ride quality is smooth. The suspension absorbs bad road surfaces without complaint. Families will enjoy a nice time inside the Carnival. Handling exposed as soft side when it came to cornering and evasive maneuvers.
Steering is also on the soft side with a good on-center feel. The turning radius was good overall. The brakes are fine, with solid stops in normal and panic situations. Pedal feel was fine with decent response to the wheels.
For 2025, you can choose from nine Carnival MPVs, including four hybrids. Pricing starts from $36,500. Tour 2025 Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige tester came to a sticker price of $54,490.
Whether you call them minivans or MPVs, the Carnival is up against some stiff family hauler competition. The Kia’s competitive set includes the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Voyager and Pacifica.
This is a Minivan or MPV that hits different. It is certainly a standout among the minivan crowd. That is the best way to describe the 2025 Kia Carnival. If you and your family want to stand and earn great fuel economy, this is your vehicle.
Credits: CarSoup Editors
