Auto Guide
2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid
New Expert recommended

Review and specifications

2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid

The Carnival minivan is refreshed for 2025, with updated styling, high-tech interior features, and a new optional hybrid version powered by a 242-hp turbocharged, four-cylinder hybrid engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. The standard engine is a 287-hp V6 with an eight-speed automatic. The freshened Carnival looks a bit more SUV-like, with a front that reminds of the Telluride and extends accent lighting across part of the grille. The standard digital instrument display can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch screen that blends with the 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment system advances to Kia's latest technology, including multi-zone 'Hey Kia' voice recognition. Other available features include a color head-up display and a video rearview mirror--by feeding the mirror display with a camera behind the vehicle, it can provide a view without interference from headrests and passengers.

Market value
$41,390
Fuel
Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
8
View listings Find dealers
Model year 2026
Owner rating Not rated
Reliability 4/5
Data updated June 4, 2026

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Hybrid
Body style
minivan
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Minivans 3-row
Generation began
2025

Pricing

Original MSRP range
$41,390 - $53,490

Ratings

Road test score
86/100
Reliability
4/5
Expert recommendation
Recommended

Fuel economy

EPA city
34 MPG
EPA highway
31 MPG
EPA combined
33 MPG
Tested city
26 MPG
Tested highway
34 MPG
Tested overall
31 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,275
Cruising range
580 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.3 sec
0-60 mph
8.5 sec
60-0 mph braking
136 ft
Avoidance speed
49.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
203 in
Width
79 in
Height
69 in
Wheelbase
122 in
Weight
4,850 lb
Maximum load
1,325 lb
Towing capacity
2,500 lb

Interior

Seating
8 people
Front head room
6 in
Front leg room
42 in
Rear head room
3.5 in
Rear leg room
33 in
Cargo volume
72 cu ft
Luggage
5+1+0

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
6/10
Greenhouse gas score
6/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Kia

<p>For almost any modern vehicle category, there’s a Kia that’s worth considering buying. Among competitive small and midsized sedans, Kia sells the K4 and K5. For small and midsized SUVs, models like the Sportage and Sorento are competitive with nice interiors, good ride comfort, and appropriately powerful engines. Fuel economy across the brand is generally good, but hybrid and plug-in hybrid options are available for even more miles per gallon. Plug-in hybrid options have a useful all-electric driving range. Kia EVs are generally competent, but buyers need to be attentive to reliability. Many new and used Kias earn our recommendation.</p><p><br/></p>

Vehicle ID: 36944 First published: December 4, 2025 Updated: June 4, 2026

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.

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