2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid: Complete Buyer's Guide

Kia is about to reshape the Canadian minivan segment with its first-ever Carnival Hybrid. Arriving in early 2025, this electrified variant combines a 242-horsepower hybrid powertrain with combined fuel efficiency ratings of 7.2L/100 km. Starting at $46,545, the 2025 Carnival Hybrid delivers the practicality Canadian families expect while addressing the growing demand for fuel-efficient family transportation.

Powertrain Performance and Efficiency

The Carnival Hybrid introduces an innovative powertrain that balances performance with efficiency. At its heart is a 1.6L turbocharged engine working in concert with an electric motor, delivering a combined 242 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system features a 54kW drive motor—the most powerful in Kia's hybrid lineup—paired with a responsive 6-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel efficiency is a key advantage, with the Carnival Hybrid achieving impressive ratings of 6.9L/100 km in city driving, 7.6L/100 km on the highway, and 7.2L/100 km combined. Drivers can maximize efficiency through adjustable regenerative braking levels, which are controlled via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and allow for personalized energy recovery based on driving conditions.

Technology and Interior Features

The Carnival Hybrid showcases Kia's Connected Car Navigation Cockpit, which features a standard 12.3-inch panoramic navigation screen paired with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. This system serves as the central hub for vehicle information and entertainment functions and incorporates over-the-air update capability to continuously improve navigation and infotainment features.

Interior flexibility remains a strong point. The SX+ trim offers a choice between a seven-passenger configuration with VIP captain's chairs or an eight-passenger layout with removable second-row bench seating. Digital Key 2.0 enables smartphone-based vehicle access, while Kia Connect provides remote features, including engine start and climate control adjustment, through a mobile app.

Advanced Safety Technologies

Safety technology in the 2025 Carnival Hybrid includes comprehensive driver assistance features. Forward Collision Avoidance 2.0 incorporates junction crossing protection, lane-change collision prevention, and evasive steering assist. Highway Driving Assist 2 maintains vehicle spacing and positioning, with the ability to execute automated lane changes when conditions permit.

The system includes Smart Cruise Control that adapts to individual driving styles and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control for automated speed adjustment in various road conditions. Remote Smart Parking Assist, exclusive to the hybrid model, simplifies parking maneuvers by allowing drivers to park the vehicle while standing outside.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2025 Carnival Hybrid lineup includes three well-equipped trim levels. The LX+ HEV, priced at $46,545, provides essential features and hybrid efficiency. The mid-range EX HEV, priced at $49,445, adds additional comfort and technology features. The range-topping SX+ HEV, priced at $56,445, delivers the full suite of available features and can be specified with a distinctive dark edition package.

Each trim level includes the efficient hybrid powertrain, comprehensive safety features, and Kia's Connected Car Navigation Cockpit. The 2025 Carnival Hybrid will arrive at Canadian dealerships in early 2025, offering families a compelling combination of efficiency, technology, and versatility.

To learn more about the 2025 Kia Carnival HEV, visit Kia.ca