Minivans are known for being practical family vehicles, but they often lack the cool factor that SUVs have. However, Kia has changed the game with the 2025 Carnival. This minivan has SUV-inspired styling that helps it blend in with three-row crossovers, making it a cool option for suburban families. The V-6 engine provides smooth power and decent fuel economy, making it great for road trips and running errands around town.
The 2025 Carnival has received some updates to its exterior and interior, including a revised grille, headlamps, taillamps, wheels, and lower body panels. Inside, the center console has been redesigned, and the climate control panel is now mounted on the dashboard. The infotainment system has been upgraded to include a more robust voice assistant and a new lane-centering feature has been added to the adaptive cruise control system.
The Carnival is offered in five trim levels, with prices ranging from $37,895 to $51,995. The EX trim is recommended as it offers a good balance of features and price, including a power-operated rear liftgate, an in-cabin intercom, and a voice-control system for rear-seat passengers. The Carnival is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 287 horsepower and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is not available, but the front-wheel drive layout and snow tires provide excellent winter traction.
In terms of fuel economy, the Carnival is rated at 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined by the EPA. In real-world testing, it achieved 28 mpg on the highway. The interior of the Carnival is modern and spacious, with plenty of storage options and optional features like reclining second-row seats with pop-up footrests. The cargo space is ample, with the ability to fit 14 carry-on suitcases behind the third row and 48 total with all seats folded.
The infotainment system in the Carnival includes a standard 12.0-inch screen or optional dual 12.3-inch displays. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and there are seven USB ports and two power outlets throughout the cabin. Safety features include automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Kia offers a generous warranty of five years or 60,000 miles for the limited warranty and 10 years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain warranty.
Overall, the 2025 Kia Carnival is a stylish and practical minivan with SUV-like design elements that make it stand out from the crowd. Its comfortable interior, smooth ride, and advanced features make it a great option for families looking for a versatile and reliable vehicle.