Refreshed Design and Enhanced Features

The 2025 Kia Carnival US Version was unveiled at the 2024 Chicago Auto Show, presenting an updated design that bridges the gap between an SUV and a family minivan. The exterior adopts Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy, featuring a bold front grille and cube-like headlamps complemented by signature amber Star Map daytime running lights. At the rear, clean lines, repositioned license plate housing, and refined Star Map taillights create a polished look. Alloy wheel options range from 17 to 19 inches, with the Carnival Dark Edition offering darker accents for a sportier aesthetic.

The 2025 Kia Carnival US Version features a refreshed design, blending bold SUV-like styling with minivan functionality, including a sculptural front grille, cube-like headlamps, and Star Map daytime running lights.
The rear design includes repositioned license plate housing, refined Star Map taillights, and black cladding with a wide, contoured skid plate for a polished and modern appearance.
Interior upgrades include a panoramic dual-display setup combining a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and infotainment screen, ambient lighting, and improved storage solutions like Slide-Flex seating for versatile configurations.
The Carnival offers class-leading cargo space of 145.1 cubic feet, with removable second-row seats (except in SX Prestige trims) and fold-in-floor third-row seats for added flexibility.
Advanced technology includes Kia’s next-generation Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC), dual 14.6-inch rear entertainment monitors, over-the-air updates, and Digital Key 2.0 for smartphone-based locking, unlocking, and driving.
A hybrid option debuts with a 1.6-liter turbo engine and a 54kW electric motor, delivering 242 horsepower, improved fuel efficiency, and features like regenerative braking and E-Handling for responsive driving.
The standard engine, a 3.5-liter V6, generates 287 horsepower and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for front-wheel drive performance.
Safety is enhanced with updated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Highway Driving Assist 2, and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist.
The Carnival Dark Edition adds sporty design elements like blacked-out exterior accents, roof rails, and skid plates, appealing to drivers seeking a bold aesthetic.

A Spacious and Functional Interior

The interior combines futuristic elements with practical functionality, designed for families and multi-purpose use. Ambient lighting spans the dashboard, while dual digital displays—a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen—integrate into a single panel for a modern appearance. The cabin offers seven USB-C ports, dual power outlets, and optional features like a full-color head-up display and Full Display Mirror. VIP Lounge Seats in the second row include a relaxation mode, adding luxury to passenger comfort. With Slide-Flex seating and fold-in-floor third-row seats, the Carnival maintains its class-leading 145.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

Connected Technology for Modern Needs

The 2025 Carnival introduces Kia’s next-generation Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC), offering faster processing, over-the-air updates, and Quick Controls for ease of use. Rear passengers can enjoy dual 14.6-inch high-definition monitors with Bluetooth and HDMI connectivity. Digital Key 2.0 enables locking, unlocking, and driving using a smartphone or NFC-enabled smart card, with the convenience of sharing digital keys via text.

Performance and New Hybrid Powertrain

The standard 3.5-liter V6 engine generates 287 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. For 2025, a hybrid option is available featuring a 1.6-liter turbo engine and a 54kW electric motor, delivering 242 horsepower and 271 lb.-ft. of torque. Hybrid-specific upgrades include E-Handling for improved responsiveness, E-Ride for smoother rides over bumps, and regenerative braking with three adjustable deceleration levels.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The Carnival’s ADAS suite now includes updated features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Crossing, Lane-change Oncoming, and Evasive Steering Assist. The available Highway Driving Assist 2 system helps maintain lane positioning and assists in lane changes on highways. Additional safety features include Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist.

Optimized for Versatility

The 2025 Kia Carnival US Version prioritizes versatility with its family-friendly design, advanced in-car technology, and hybrid powertrain. Its combination of space, safety, and technology ensures it caters to a wide range of drivers, making it a top contender in the minivan segment.

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