The Carnival is among the few minivans still for sale, but it carries on with fresh styling, an updated infotainment system, and an available hybrid version.
The standard 287-hp V6 and eight-speed automatic is a hearty powertrain; it delivered 21 mpg overall in our tests.
The hybrid uses the same 1.6-liter turbo and six-speed automatic from the Sportage and Sorento hybrids; it's a responsive powertrain and capable of powering the Carnival on electric power alone at low speeds.
It returned 31 mpg overall in our tests.
The Carnival's ride is firm and composed, and handling is secure but short on agility.
Like all minivans, the interior is extremely roomy and versatile.
The digital instrument display is relatively straightforward, but the dual climate/audio panel, now prevalent in all Kia models, is silly and distracting to use.
Available features include a color head-up display.
Kia's replacement for the Sedona minivan brings major upgrades in terms of active safety, amenities, and connectivity.
The Carnival is powered by a punchy 290-hp V6 that has lots of power in reserve, mated to a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic.
Its 21 mpg overall is similar to other V6 competitors, but no match for the Toyota Sienna hybrid.
Unlike the Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica, the Carnival isn't available with AWD.
The ride is comfortable and handling is secure but not agile.
Controls are easy to use.
High-end versions come with a lounge-like reclining feature for the second row.
The midsection of the second row can handily slide fore and aft, but owners have to remove the heavy second-row seats for maximum cargo capacity.
Standard active safety features include FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, and RCTW.
For 2025, the Carnival received a refresh which included mild interior and exterior styling updates, and standard adaptive cruise control.
A new hybrid version powered by a 242-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder hybrid engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission was also introduced.
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