Kia Carnival 2025
Pros
Sleek, SUV-inspired styling elevates overall look
Exceptionally spacious interior for passengers and cargo
Robust safety features with strong warranty coverage
Cons
No AWD option – only comes in FWD
Fuel efficiency trails behind hybrid competitors
Lounge seats limit cargo space and flexibility

Kia Carnival 2025

Starting MSRP*
$36,800
See Best Offers

Our Verdict

The 2025 Kia Carnival combines bold SUV-inspired styling with minivan practicality, offering a roomy, tech-filled cabin and smooth V6 power – but its fuel economy is merely average.

Best For

Big familiesAmple Cargo Space

Not Ideal For

Urban solo commutersoff-road enthusiasts.
Pros
Sleek, SUV-inspired styling elevates overall look
Exceptionally spacious interior for passengers and cargo
Robust safety features with strong warranty coverage
Cons
No AWD option – only comes in FWD
Fuel efficiency trails behind hybrid competitors
Lounge seats limit cargo space and flexibility

Car Specifications

Trim
Engine
Horsepower
MPG (City/Hwy)
Seating Capacity
Cargo Capacity (cu. ft.)
Transmission
MSRP
Car Type
About Image

About The Kia Carnival 2025

The Kia Carnival is a roomy, family-friendly minivan with bold SUV-like styling. It replaces the Kia Sedona (the brand’s previous minivan) and offers sliding doors, a sleek design, and seating for up to eight. Inside, it’s upscale and tech-forward, with best-in-class space for passengers and cargo.

Available lounge-style second-row seats add comfort for longer trips. It’s a practical minivan that feels more modern and refined than most.

Book a Test Drive Now
What It Costs to Drive
The 2025 Kia Carnival's annual ownership costs:
Yearly
Monthly
Avg. Yearly Cost
$4,100–$5,600
Fuel
$1,800–$2,200
Insurance
$1,600–$2,300
Maintenance
$700–$1,100
Avg. Yearly Cost
$4,100–$5,600
Fuel
$1,800–$2,200
Insurance
$1,600–$2,300
Maintenance
$700–$1,100
Assumptions: Based on average U.S. driver (12,000 miles/year, fuel price ~$3.75/gal, good driving record).

Trims, Features & Pricing

LX

  • Value Packed Starter
  • Starting~$36,800

The LX offers excellent value for budget-conscious families. It includes 7-passenger seating, tri-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity, and advanced safety features. Power sliding doors make it practical, and its V6 delivers smooth acceleration. Ideal for those wanting essential features and generous space without a luxury price tag.

LXS

  • Flexible Seating Upgrade
  • Starting~$38,800

The LXS adds an 8-passenger setup with a removable second-row middle seat, heated front seats, and SynTex upholstery. Families needing flexible seating will appreciate its layout. With the same infotainment and safety as the LX, the LXS builds comfort into practicality for a modest increase in price.

EX

  • Most Family-Friendly
  • Starting~$41,000

EX trim strikes the perfect balance with standout family features. It adds Passenger View camera, in-cabin intercom, power liftgate, wireless charging, and ventilated front seats. With upgraded tech and seating convenience, it's the smart pick for buyers who value modern features without splurging on top-tier luxury.

SX

  • High-Tech Cruiser
  • Starting~$45,900

The SX includes dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays, Highway Driving Assist 2, adaptive cruise control, and ambient lighting. Exterior upgrades add stylish wheels and blacked-out trim. It’s best for tech-savvy families who want a premium driving experience packed with driver aids and futuristic interfaces.

SX Prestige

  • Premium Comfort
  • Starting~$50,900

SX Prestige adds real leather, VIP Lounge Seats (heated/ventilated), a head-up display, and a 12-speaker Bose system. Designed for ultimate comfort, it transforms road trips into luxury experiences. Ideal for families who prioritize top-end refinement and are willing to sacrifice a little cargo flexibility.

Recommended Trim by AutosMarket

EX Trim Recommended

  • Best balance of comfort, price, and safety
  • Includes family must-haves like cabin camera and intercom
  • Offers power tailgate, heated/ventilated seats
  • More affordable than SX with nearly all top features
  • Strong resale value and practicality for growing families
View Best Deals
Recommended Trim Image

A Review From Every Angle

GOOD

4.5/5

1. Exterior

4.5 / 5.0

Stylish minivan with SUV attitude

The Carnival’s SUV-like styling stands out, with bold LED lighting, a sculpted grille, and hidden sliding door tracks.

  • Dark Edition package adds sporty flair
  • New amber "Star Map" DRLs grab attention
  • Rear redesign cleans up the tailgate
  • 17" to 19" alloy wheels based on trim
  • Feels upscale in any family driveway

2. Interior

4.5 / 5.0

Spacious, refined, and user-friendly

The cabin is airy and versatile, with space for up to eight.

  • Dual 12.3" screens on SX+ trims
  • Best-in-class rear legroom and third-row space
  • VIP lounge seats offer first-class comfort
  • Loads of cubbies, hooks, and ports
  • Slight learning curve for touch controls

3. Safety

4 / 5.0

Loaded with safety, minor crash concern

The Carnival features full driver assistance but scored poorly in one IIHS side test.

  • Standard: AEB, lane keep, blind spot, rear cross-traffic
  • Upgraded: Highway Driving Assist 2 (SX+)
  • IIHS: “Poor” in new side-impact test
  • NHTSA: 5-star rating overall
  • Great child-seat flexibility and rear occupant alerts
Banner

4. Fuel Economy

3.5 / 5.0

Average V6, new hybrid shines

The gas V6 is acceptable, but the new hybrid is a game-changer.

  • V6: 21 MPG combined
  • Hybrid: 33 MPG combined (FWD only)
  • Hybrid offers ~$700 yearly fuel savings
  • Large tank gives strong range
  • No plug-in version offered

5. Tech & Infotainment

4.5 / 5.0

Family-focused tech, rich features

Kia’s tech is class-leading and parent-friendly.

  • Standard 12.3" touchscreen with nav & wireless CarPlay
  • Cabin camera/intercom from EX up
  • Digital rearview mirror, Bose audio, HUD in Prestige
  • 6 USB-C ports + household outlets
  • Climate/volume touch bar less intuitive

6. Performance & Handling

4 / 5.0

Confident ride, smooth and capable

Drives more like a crossover than a van.

  • V6: 287 hp, 8-speed auto
  • Responsive in city and highway merging
  • Light steering, minimal body roll
  • Smooth, quiet, and composed ride
  • Lacks AWD and sporty punch, but very refined

What's New From Last Year?

  • All-new hybrid trim option with 33 MPG combined
  • Redesigned front grille, DRLs, and taillights
  • New panoramic dual-screen dashboard with 12.3" displays
  • Added voice-command features ("Hey Kia") for A/C, seat controls
  • Available VIP Lounge seats now include heating and ventilation
  • Enhanced safety tech with Highway Driving Assist 2
  • USB-C ports in all three rows
  • Refined interior materials and updated ambient lighting
View Local Dealerships
New from Last Year Image
Cars Similar to the Kia Carnival
The Kia Carnival competes with top family haulers like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna—here’s how they compare across performance, tech, comfort, and more.
2025 Kia Carnival
2025 Honda Odyssey
2025 Toyota Sienna
Feature2025 Kia Carnival2025 Honda Odyssey2025 Toyota Sienna
Performance
Smooth V6; confident handling
Sporty steering feel; responsive V6
Hybrid-only; less power but efficient
Tech & Interior
Dual 12.3” displays, cabin camera & intercom
Basic tech setup; aging interface
Clean design; lacks Carnival’s screen richness
Practicality
Best-in-class cargo (145.1 cu ft); flexible seating
Magic Slide seats; slightly less cargo space
Hybrid fuel economy; AWD available
Comfort & Space
Reclining VIP seats; upscale materials
Comfortable and reliable
Quiet ride; captain’s chairs in 7-seat setup
Who’s it for
Families wanting luxury + space + tech
Buyers seeking a smooth ride and Honda durability
Efficiency-focused families and snowbelt drivers
Best Choice For
  • Modern tech Flexibility
  • Comfort
  • Engaging drive
  • Strong resale value
  • Fuel savings
  • All-weather versatility
Shop Local Offers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 Carnival available as a hybrid?
Yes, the new Carnival Hybrid delivers 33 MPG combined.
Does the Carnival come with AWD?
No. All trims are FWD only.
How many seats does it have?
7 or 8, depending on trim and seating configuration.
Is there a rear-seat entertainment system?
Not built-in, but USB-C ports and power outlets support device use.
Can it tow a trailer?
Yes – up to 3,500 lbs with the V6; 2,500 lbs for the hybrid.
What is the warranty coverage?
5-year/60k-mile basic + 10-year/100k-mile powertrain warranty.
Is it a good family vehicle?
Absolutely – spacious, safe, tech-rich, and road-trip ready.