Feb 21, 2024
Kia Carnival Exterior

The 2025 Kia Carnival MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) aims to redefine versatility and sophistication within the family vehicle segment. With a sleek design, impressive passenger and cargo space, and an all-new turbo-hybrid powertrain, this MPV does just that. Dealers are excited to welcome this new model year into its showrooms in the summer of 2024 (anticipated arrival). Read on to learn more about its features and contact Jeff Belzer’s Kia for more information on arrivals and availability.



Sophisticated Design

The Kia Carnival truly does have the stylistic aspects of an SUV. The front end is similar to a Telluride or Sorento in shape and style. The rest of the body boasts a clean, chiseled appearance, which is typically not seen when looking at MPVs. Other MPVs are more curved and rounded, with functionality taking precedence over design. With the Kia Carnival, they aimed to change that. Along with the sharp, sleek lines, this vehicle has a unique front fascia and grille design. This is paired with the available contoured skid plate to create a seamless design. All in all, this exterior redesign differentiates itself even further from other MVPs in the market, and all of us at Jeff Belzer’s have to say: we like the elevation. 


Sleek Interior

Moving to the inside of the vehicle, you will experience comfort and luxury alike. The Carnival boasts best-in-class passenger and cargo space (1). With 145.1 cubic feet of cargo room behind the first row, you will have plenty of room for friends, family, and belongings. This MPV can seat 7 or 8, depending on which version you want. The “Slide Flex” seating features a sliding second row center seat, which can slide up so that the front passenger can have easy access. And don’t worry! The removable second row and fold-in-floor third-row seats have continued on to the 2025 model year. This is a game changer for families. 

On the dashboard, you will see ambient lighting across the whole thing along with a minimalist center fascia design. There is a vast center console with two cupholders designed to accommodate larger cups and beverages. Depending on the trim level, you will enjoy premium seating with intricate stitching. There is an optional VIP Lounge Seat package available. In this package, the second row has a “relaxation mode,” which includes reclining seats with a leg extension (2). We are excited to try this feature out! 


Hybrid Power

To elevate the Carnival and provide an eco-conscious option, Kia is offering a hybrid option. It will have a 1.6-liter turbo-hybrid engine alongside a 54kW motor and 6-speed automatic transmission. This offers 242 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. To compare, the standard engine in the Carnival is a 3.5-liter V6 GDI engine. This offers 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The goal of the hybrid option is to improve fuel economy without compromising performance or comfort. The Carnival HEV comes with aerodynamic 17-inch wheels, which are exclusive to the HEV option. Let’s check out some other exclusive features to the HEV: 

  • E-Handling: improves responsiveness and agility of vehicle when entering or exiting a corner 
  • E-Ride: specially tuned shocks absorb the jolt of a bump, creating a smoother ride 
  • E-Evasive Handling Assist: helps control the vehicle during emergency steering to maximize evasion 
  • E-VMC (Electrification-Vehicle Motion Control): adjusts regenerative braking with a three-level deceleration control

Technology and Connectivity

The 2025 Kia Carnival comes standard with seven USB-C ports, two power outlets, and two 115V inverters, ensuring that all devices stay charged in every row. There is a panoramic display with a 12.3-inch cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display (3). You have the option of adding a full-color heads-up display (4) so that you can see your speed, RPM, speeding limit, and more in your line of sight while driving. These options are also customizable so that you can display what is relevant to you. While driving, you can say “Hey Kia” with a request such as adjusting the climate control and the vehicle will automatically do it for you. These new technologies and advancements help make the Carnival a desired MPV in the market. 

Kia believes that it is important to be and stay connected inside the vehicle to create seamless experiences. The 2025 Carnival will now offer the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC). Based on your usage and needs, the vehicle will organize frquently used apps into a Quick Controls menu. It also processes over-the-air updates (5) more efficiently. Rear passengers can utilize the Connected Car Rear Cockpit (ccRC) Entertainment System. This features two 14.6-inch screens which can stream content from various platforms. You can also mirror from other devices using an HDMI port or connect their Bluetooth headsets. Kia has also made the Digital Key 2.0 available on the 2025 Carnival. This allows you to use a smart device or an NFC-enabled smart card as “keys” to unlock, lock, and drive your vehicle.


Safety as Priority

As always, safety is the number one priority when designing Kia vehicles. The Advanced Driver Assistance System comes standard with all new Kias. This includes the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (6), which alerts the driver if a potential collision is imminent and can automatically apply the brakes to avoid a collision. Other ADAS features include available Junction Crossing, Lange-change Oncoming, Lange-change Side, Evasive Steering Assist, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (7), and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (8). New to the 2025 Carnival is the Highway Driving Assist. This system keeps a certain distance between you and the car in front of you, keeps your vehicle within the lines on the road, and assists in lane changes.


As we conclude our journey through the 2025 Kia Carnival, it’s evident that Kia has set a new benchmark for MPVs. With its hybrid powertrain, sophisticated design, and innovative features, the 2025 Carnival offers a glimpse into the future of versatile and eco-friendly mobility. Whether you’re seeking efficiency, style, or functionality, the Carnival delivers on all fronts. Be sure to contact us for all updates and information surrounding the 2025 Kia Carnival. Jeff Belzer’s Kia has been the #1 Volume Kia Dealer in Minnesota since 2017. We are dedicated to our customers and would love to help you take it for a test drive when it arrives in the summer! Take a look at our current Kia Carnival inventory here.


Disclaimers: 

(1) Best-in-class passenger and cargo space: Comparison based on publicly available data regarding passenger and cargo space in Mid-Size MPVs as of January 2024. Mid-Size MPV class as defined by Kia segmentation. 

(2) Reclining seat and/or elevating footrest can reduce the effectiveness of the safety restraint system and may lead to additional injury in an accident. 

(3) Distracted driving can result in the loss of vehicle control. When operating a vehicle, never use a vehicle system that takes your focus away from safe vehicle operation. 

(4) Failure to pay attention to travel conditions and vehicle operation could result in loss of vehicle control. Always drive safely and use caution. 

(5) Over-the-Air features and updates may require an additional cost and may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Kia Connect subscription is required and Kia Connect terms and conditions apply 

(6) When engaged, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist is not a substitute for safe driving and may not detect all objects in front of vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution. 

(7) When engaged, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC) is not a substitute for safe driving and cruise-control procedures. This is not an auto-pilot feature. It may not detect every object around the vehicle. Always drive safely and use caution. 

(8) Intelligent Speed Limit Assist is not a substitute for safe driving and may only function under certain conditions. Always drive safely and use caution.