The Kia Carnival has been a game-changer in the minivan market, combining practicality with luxury, making it an ideal choice for families who want both comfort and style. With the 2024 Kia Carnival already making waves, the 2025 model promises some exciting updates.
Whether you’re a current Kia Carnival owner or considering purchasing one, you might be wondering: What has changed from 2024 to 2025? Is it worth upgrading? Let’s break it down, comparing the two models and highlighting what’s new, what’s the same, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
Before we dive into the details, don’t forget to check out Kia 417’s new inventory and new car specials for amazing deals on the latest models. If you’re ready to take the next step, you can always contact us to schedule a test drive!
Overview of the Kia Carnival
The Kia Carnival has quickly become one of the most sought-after minivans on the market. Known for its bold design, ample interior space, and high-tech features, the Carnival caters to families who need more than just a functional vehicle.
It’s versatile, stylish, and equipped with the latest tech and safety features. Both the 2024 and 2025 models continue to offer the spacious cabin, luxurious features, and high-performance engine that the Kia Carnival is known for, but let’s take a closer look at the key differences and similarities.
2024 Kia Carnival: A Quick Recap
The 2024 Kia Carnival offered a complete redesign with the following standout features:
Powerful Engine Options: The 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 290 horsepower (216 kW), with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Interior Comfort: Available seating for up to 8 passengers, with premium materials, configurable seating, and a high-tech infotainment system.
Tech Features: Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch touch screen, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Safety Features: Kia’s Drive Wise safety suite, which includes lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Cargo Space: A generous 1,110 liters (39.2 cubic feet) of space behind the second row, expanding to 2,100 liters (74.1 cubic feet) with the seats folded.
The 2024 Carnival was a hit for its design, practicality, and tech features, but the 2025 model brings some exciting updates that may just push it to the next level.
The 2025 Kia Carnival introduces several enhancements, while still maintaining the core features that make the model so popular. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new for the 2025 version.
1. Updated Design
Exterior: While the overall design remains bold and distinctive, the 2025 Carnival brings a few subtle exterior tweaks, including revised front and rear bumpers, and a new set of wheel designs. The grille has been refined, giving it a more streamlined, modern look.
Interior Upgrades: The 2025 model brings improved materials to the cabin, offering higher-quality upholstery and updated finishes. New tech features, like a larger digital gauge cluster and additional ambient lighting options, make the interior feel even more luxurious.
2. Enhanced Technology
Infotainment System: The 2025 Carnival comes with an upgraded 12.3-inch touch screen that features faster processing, smoother navigation, and a more intuitive user interface. It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which was previously only available with wired connections.
Driver Assistance Technology: Kia has added even more advanced safety and driver-assistance features. The 2025 model now comes standard with enhanced adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, and a surround-view camera system, making parking and navigating tight spaces easier.
3. More Powerful Engine Option
Hybrid Option: The 2025 Carnival introduces a hybrid powertrain option for the first time. The hybrid version combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering an impressive 227 horsepower (169 kW) while improving fuel efficiency. The hybrid model also features a slightly more advanced power distribution system to optimize performance.
Standard V6: The 3.5-liter V6 engine continues to power the majority of the Carnival models. While the 2025 V6 engine is nearly identical to the 2024 version in terms of performance, it has been slightly tweaked for better fuel economy, achieving up to 11.2 L/100 km (21 mpg) in the city and 8.4 L/100 km (28 mpg) on the highway.
4. Improved Seating Configuration
Second-Row Captain’s Chairs: For 2025, the Carnival adds an option for a second-row bench seat, which can be swapped for the captain’s chairs for more individualized comfort. This option is perfect for families who need to configure their space differently for each trip.
More Cargo Space: The 2025 Carnival offers slightly more space behind the third row, increasing the cargo volume to 1,200 liters (42.3 cubic feet). With the second- and third-row seats folded down, the total capacity expands to 2,400 liters (84.8 cubic feet), giving you even more room for luggage and gear.
5. Price Increase
The 2025 Kia Carnival comes with a price increase compared to the 2024 model, reflecting the added features, enhanced tech, and hybrid option. The base price for the 2025 model starts around CAD $44,000 (USD $32,000), while the fully-loaded version can go up to CAD $55,000 (USD $40,000).
Now that we know what has changed for the 2025 Carnival, let’s dive into a more detailed comparison between the two models. Below is a table highlighting the key differences and similarities.
Feature
2024 Kia Carnival
2025 Kia Carnival
Engine
3.5L V6 (290 hp)
3.5L V6 (290 hp), Hybrid (227 hp)
Transmission
8-speed automatic
8-speed automatic, Hybrid CVT
Fuel Economy (V6)
11.2 L/100 km (21 mpg) city, 8.4 L/100 km (28 mpg) highway
11.1 L/100 km (21.2 mpg) city, 8.3 L/100 km (28.2 mpg) highway
Cargo Space
1,110L (39.2 cu ft) with 2nd row up
1,200L (42.3 cu ft) with 2nd row up
Max Cargo Space
2,100L (74.1 cu ft)
2,400L (84.8 cu ft)
Infotainment
12.3-inch touch screen, wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
12.3-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Safety Features
Kia Drive Wise suite, rearview camera, forward collision warning
Enhanced Drive Wise suite, surround-view camera, traffic jam assist
Seating Configuration
7-8 passengers, captain’s chairs option
7-8 passengers, captain’s chairs or bench option
Price (Base Model)
CAD $42,000 (USD $31,000)
CAD $44,000 (USD $32,000)
Performance and Engine Options
Both the 2024 and 2025 Kia Carnivals offer the same standard 3.5L V6 engine, but the new hybrid engine option in the 2025 model gives buyers a more fuel-efficient alternative without compromising power. The hybrid engine, paired with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), offers smooth acceleration and better fuel economy in urban settings.
The V6 continues to provide strong performance, offering 290 horsepower (216 kW) that powers the minivan through both city streets and highways with ease. It remains the best option for those who prioritize power and towing capacity, as it can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,588 kg).
Technology and Connectivity
The 2025 Carnival introduces significant upgrades in its infotainment system. The upgraded wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are a welcome change for those who no longer want to fumble with cables. Additionally, the 12.3-inch touchscreen remains the centerpiece of the Carnival’s tech interface, offering a bright, easy-to-use display for navigation, media, and climate control.
The 2025 model also brings new driver-assistance technologies, including enhanced adaptive cruise control, surround-view camera, and traffic jam assist. These features work in tandem to make the driving experience more comfortable and safer.
Improved Rear Entertainment System with Streaming Apps
Interior Comfort and Space
The Carnival has always been known for its spacious interior, and the 2025 model takes it a step further with more flexible seating configurations and an increase in cargo space. Whether you’re looking to transport passengers or haul gear, the 2025 Carnival has you covered.
Safety: Hands-Free Driving & New Driver Assist Features
Both the 2024 and 2025 Kia Carnival come with Kia Drive Wise, but the 2025 version introduces a more advanced hands-free highway driving assist system, making long road trips smoother than ever.
New Safety Features in the 2025 Kia Carnival:
Level 2+ Hands-Free Highway Driving (Available in select trims)
Enhanced Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance
Adaptive Cruise Control with AI-Based Speed Adjustment
Safety-conscious buyers should definitely consider the 2025 model for these upgrades.
Price and Value
While the 2025 Kia Carnival does come with a higher price tag than the 2024 model, it also brings several upgrades, including the new hybrid powertrain and additional tech features. For families who value fuel efficiency and advanced tech, the extra cost might be well worth it.
Fuel Economy Comparison
If you’re considering the hybrid version, the 2025 Carnival is the better choice for those who want to cut down on fuel consumption. Here’s a comparison of the fuel economy between the two models:
2024 Kia Carnival V6: 11.2 L/100 km (21 mpg) city, 8.4 L/100 km (28 mpg) highway.
2025 Kia Carnival V6: 11.1 L/100 km (21.2 mpg) city, 8.3 L/100 km (28.2 mpg) highway.
2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid: 6.8 L/100 km (34.5 mpg) city, 7.5 L/100 km (31.4 mpg) highway.
Conclusion: Is the 2025 Kia Carnival Worth the Upgrade?
Reasons to Buy the 2024 Kia Carnival:
More Affordable – Lower starting price and better discounts
Same V6 Engine – No major power differences between models
Available Now – No waiting required
Proven Reliability – The 2024 model has been tested and reviewed
Reasons to Buy the 2025 Kia Carnival:
Hybrid Option – Save on fuel and reduce emissions
Bigger Infotainment Screen – 14.5-inch display available
Better Safety Features – Hands-free driving & AI cruise control
The 2025 Kia Carnival brings a lot to the table, especially with the introduction of the hybrid engine and the additional tech features. If you’re looking for a more fuel-efficient, tech-forward minivan, the 2025 model is a great choice. However, if you already own a 2024 Kia Carnival, the differences are not vast enough to warrant an immediate upgrade unless you’re particularly interested in the hybrid option or the added tech features.
For those who are in the market for a new minivan, the 2025 Kia Carnival offers excellent value, combining advanced features, performance, and versatility at a competitive price.
Interested in the 2024 or 2025 Kia Carnival? Check out our new inventory and new car specials at Kia 417 for the best deals. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information and to schedule a test drive today!
1. When will the 2025 Kia Carnival be available in Canada and the U.S.?
The 2025 Kia Carnival is expected to arrive in late 2024. Check with Kia 417 for pre-order details.
2. Does the 2025 Kia Carnival come in AWD?
No, both the 2024 and 2025 Kia Carnival models are front-wheel drive (FWD) only.
3. Is the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid worth it?
If fuel efficiency is a priority, the hybrid model is an excellent choice, offering nearly 50% better fuel economy than the standard V6.
4. What is the towing capacity of the Kia Carnival?
Both the 2024 and 2025 Kia Carnival can tow up to 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), making them great for light trailers and small boats.
5. What are the major differences between the 2024 and 2025 Kia Carnival?
The biggest updates include a hybrid powertrain option, an enhanced infotainment system, a slightly larger cargo space, and improved safety features in the 2025 model.
