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Car and Driver
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview Kia offers this hybrid version of its Carnival minivan alongside a gas-only van powered by a V-6. Although the Carnival Hybrid is slightly down on power compared to the V-6 model, it's able to accelerate just as quickly and doesn't feel lacking for oomph on the road. Your reward for buying the slightly more expensive hybrid version is improved fuel efficiency—we saw 29 mpg with the hybrid in our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, compared to 28 with the V-6. The Carnival Hybrid goes up against Toyota's all-hybrid Sienna lineup as well as the plug-in hybrid version of the Chrysler Pacifica. The Carnival siblings remain among our favorites in a strong crop of minivans. What's New for 2026? A year after its introduction, there are no major changes to the Carnival Hybrid. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Kia Carnival Hybrid is expected to start around $43,000 and go up to $55,000 depending on the trim and options. LXS $43,000 (est) EX $45,000 (est) SX $50,000 (est) SX Prestige $55,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k $90k The Carnival Hybrid is offered in four trims, starting with the entry-level LXS and topping out at the loaded SX Prestige. We think the EX represents the best value because it comes with extra features, including a power tailgate, a wireless smartphone charger, a larger infotainment touchscreen, and 19-inch wheels. Engine, Transmission, and Performance All Carnival Hybrids come with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that's augmented by a 72-hp electric motor to drive the front wheels. This combination amounts to 242 horsepower, which is slightly less than the nonhybrid Carnival's 287-hp V-6 engine provides. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. In our test drive, we found the Carnival Hybrid to be as powerful, refined, and pleasant to drive as the standard model. The ride is smooth, the cabin is quiet, and handling is secure. The hybrid has different settings for the regenerative braking system that can slow the car at varying levels when you lift off the brake. But we found that, on downhill stretches, selecting the higher levels fill the battery, causing the regeneration to shut off. 0–60-MPH Times In our testing, the Carnival Hybrid got to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds, tying the 2025 Carnival V-6 nonhybrid we tested. View Exterior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA rates the Carnival Hybrid at 33 mpg combined, 34 mpg city, and 31 mpg highway, a significant boost over the nonhybrid model. In our real-world 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, the Carnival Hybrid achieved 29 mpg, slightly below its official rating. For more information about the Carnival Hybrid's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Carnival Hybrid's dashboard and front-seat area are both modern and accommodating. A large center console offers plenty of small-item storage, while an optional dual-screen infotainment system with a digital gauge display gives you easy access to the van's connectivity features. The upscale SX Prestige trim comes with leather upholstery and can be ordered with reclining second-row seats that have pop-up footrests. While these provide a relaxing way for passengers to while away the hours on a long road trip, they cannot be removed or stowed in the floor as in rival minivans, which limits the Carnival's maximum cargo space and versatility. A panoramic sunroof is optional and provides a large opening over the second row so the kids can get some fresh air. In our testing, we fit 14 carry-on suitcases behind the third row of seats and a whopping 48 in total with all seats folded. That's a ton of cargo space, but it should be noted that both the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid and Honda Odyssey proved slightly more spacious. View Interior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity While a single 8.0-inch infotainment screen is standard, dual 12.3-inch displays that stretch across two-thirds of the Carnival Hybrid's dashboard are optional, with one serving as a digital gauge display and the other performing infotainment duties. A voice assistant is integrated into the infotainment software and occupants can verbally ask the car to perform tasks such as opening a window, adjusting the climate control, or navigating to a destination. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard. Seven USB ports dot the Carnival's cabin; two other power outlets are also included. A rear-seat entertainment system is optional starting on the SX trim and features two 14.6-inch displays that provide access to streaming services. The system is Bluetooth-enabled for headphones, so the kids can watch Bluey and Paw Patrol while you drive in peace. A 12-speaker Bose stereo is available but limited to the top-spec SX Prestige trim. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Kia offers many standard driver-assistance features, including lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and blind-spot monitoring, all of which help the Carnival compete with the Pacifica Hybrid, the Sienna Hybrid, and the Honda Odyssey. For more information about the Carnival's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Kia's warranty trumps its rivals', with a powertrain policy that spans 10 years or 100,000 miles. Unlike the Sienna, though, the Carnival Hybrid doesn't come with any complimentary scheduled maintenance. Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid SX Prestige Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, front-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door van PRICE Base/As Tested: $53,995/$56,760 Options: Rear Seat Entertainment package, $2500; carpeted floor mats, $265; SX Prestige Seat package, $0 POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline-4, 178 hp, 195 lb-ft + AC motor, 74 hp, 224 lb-ft (combined output: 242 hp, 271 lb-ft); 1.2-kWh (C/D est) lithium-ion battery pack Transmission: 6-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 12.8-in vented disc/12.8-in disc Tires: Continental CrossContact RX 235/55R-19 105H M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 121.7 in Length: 203.0 in Width: 78.5 in Height: 69.9 in Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 61/56/43 ft3 Cargo Volume, behind F/M/R: –/87/40 ft3 Curb Weight: 4985 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 7.8 sec 1/4-Mile: 16.1 sec @ 87 mph 100 mph: 25.0 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 9.3 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.7 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 6.0 sec Top Speed (C/D est): 115 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 180 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.80 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 29 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 29 mpg 75-mph Highway Range: 550 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 33/34/31 mpg More Features and Specs
Car and Driver
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Kia Carnival Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview Despite an undeniable practicality, the minivan continues to suffer the stigma of being, well, a minivan. The 2026 Kia Carnival slips under that judgmental radar thanks to its almost SUV-like styling. It's all minivan inside, however, delivering ample interior space and limo-like comfort while retaining 40 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row. And it manages to fit all that into a package with an overall length nearly two feet shorter than a Chevy Suburban's. A 287-hp V-6 engine provides adequate acceleration and helps the Carnival return respectable fuel efficiency with highway mileage in the mid-to-upper 20s. Though the Chrysler Pacifica and the Honda Odyssey may offer a bit more overall interior space, neither can match the Carnival's comparatively rugged exterior. What's New for 2026? After a mild refresh for 2025, the 2026 Kia Carnival carries over virtually unchanged. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Kia Carnival is expected to start around $39,000 and go up to $53,000 depending on the trim and options. LX $39,000 (est) LXS $41,000 (est) EX $43,000 (est) SX $48,000 (est) SX Prestige $53,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k The Carnival is offered in five trim levels ranging from the value-oriented LX to the deluxe SX Prestige, but the EX represents the sweet spot between features and price. The EX trim comes with several convenience features that help to justify the cost of upgrading, including a power-operated rear liftgate, an in-cabin intercom, and a voice-control system that allows rear-seat passengers to provide commands to the Carnival's infotainment system. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The Carnival is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 churning out a healthy 287 horsepower; an eight-speed automatic transmission is standard. All-wheel drive is not on the menu, as the Carnival is offered as a front-wheel-drive model only. Kia also offers the Carnival Hybrid, which gets a 242-hp turbocharged hybrid powertrain, but we review that model separately. We're impressed by the Carnival's well-balanced ride and handling, which is smooth when cruising but still composed in corners. 0–60-MPH Times The refined V-6 engine provides sprightly acceleration and powered the Carnival to 60 mph in 7.0 seconds at our test track. View Exterior Photos Kia Towing and Payload Capacity The Kia Carnival is rated to tow up to 3500 pounds when properly equipped. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Carnival yet, but the 2025 model earned ratings of 18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. We tested a Carnival on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, and it returned 28 mpg highway—2 mpg higher than its EPA rating. For more information about the Carnival's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The Carnival's dashboard and front-seat area are both modern and accommodating. A large center console offers plenty of small-item storage, while an optional Mercedes-style dual-screen infotainment system with a digital gauge display gives you easy access to the van's connectivity features. The upscale SX Prestige trim comes with leather upholstery and can be ordered with reclining second-row seats that have pop-up footrests. While these "VIP Seats" provide a relaxing way for passengers to while away the hours on a long road trip, they, unfortunately, cannot be removed or stowed in the floor as in rival minivans, which limits the Carnival's maximum cargo space. A panoramic sunroof is optional and provides a large opening over the second row so the kids can get some fresh air. In our testing, we fit 14 carry-on suitcases behind the third row of seats and a whopping 48 in total with all seats folded. That's a ton of cargo space, but it should be noted that both the Pacifica and Odyssey proved slightly more spacious. View Interior Photos Kia Infotainment and Connectivity While a single 12.0-inch infotainment screen is standard, dual 12.3-inch displays that stretch across two-thirds of the Carnival's dashboard are optional, with one serving as a digital gauge display and the other performing infotainment duties. A voice assistant is integrated into the infotainment software and occupants can verbally ask the car to perform tasks such as opening a window, adjusting the climate control, or navigating to a destination. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard. Seven USB ports dot the Carnival's cabin and there are two regular power outlets provided too. A rear-seat entertainment system adds two 14.6-inch monitors in the rear, allowing passengers to stream content while on the go; a 12-speaker Bose stereo is also available. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Kia offers many standard driver-assistance features, including lane-keeping assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and blind-spot monitoring, all of which help the Carnival compete with the Pacifica, the Sienna, and the Honda Odyssey. For more information about the Carnival's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features are likely to include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Kia's warranty trumps its rivals, with a powertrain policy that spans 10 years or 100,000 miles. Unlike the Sienna, though, the Carnival doesn't come with any complimentary scheduled maintenance. Limited warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2022 Kia Carnival VEHICLE TYPE front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door van PRICE AS TESTED $42,770 (base price: $33,275) ENGINE TYPE DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection Displacement 212 in3, 3470 cm3 Power 290 hp @ 6400 rpm Torque 262 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm TRANSMISSION 8-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension (F/R): struts/multilink Brakes (F/R): 12.8-in vented disc/12.8-inch disc Tires: Continental CrossContact RX, 235/55R-19 101H M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 121.7 in Length: 203.0 in Width: 78.5 in Height: 68.5 in Passenger volume: 167 ft3 Cargo volume: 40 ft3 Curb weight: 4644 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 7.0 sec 100 mph: 17.8 sec Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 7.4 sec Top gear, 30–50 mph: 3.5 sec Top gear, 50–70 mph: 5.0 sec 1/4 mile: 15.3 sec @ 93 mph Top speed (governor limited): 118 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 173 ft Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.82 g Standing-start accel times omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/city/highway: 22/19/26 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Forbes
31-03-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Everything You Need To Know About The Kia Sorento
The Kia Sorento is a mid-size three-row crossover in its fourth generation. It was first launched with the 2023 model and it's improving with age; it's now better than ever. Kia added the X-Pro trim to the Sorento for model year 2024, a good match for those who like their compact SUVs with a side of adventure. In the midsize SUV category, the Sorento competes with vehicles from its sister company, Hyundai, like the Palisade and the Santa Fe. Mazda's CX-90 is a sleek competitor with a gorgeous interior, but its infotainment setup doesn't match Kia's. Here's all the information you need to know about the Kia Sorento's trim levels and how to choose the right one for you. Kia Sorento SX-Prestige X-Pro Kia The Kia Sorento is available in LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige trims; the X-Line is available on EX and above and X-Pro on SX Prestige. Hybrid and plug-in Sorento models are also available, but not with the X-Pro option. Starting in the base LX model, the Sorento includes LED headlights, a six-speaker audio system, a nicely-sized 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also standard is a host of driver-assist features like rear automatic braking, intersection collision mitigation, blind spot warning, forward collision warning, and cruise control. Note that the base Sorento uses a physical key; upgrade to the S model for a push-button start. The S also adds a power-adjustable, heated driver's seat and heated passenger seat, roof rails, dual climate control, parking sensors in the front and rear, an integrated digital navigation system, and a wireless charging pad. Next is the EX, which gets a big horsepower upgrade, a hands-free liftgate, captain's chairs in the middle (reducing total seating to six), and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. Lane centering is also added to this trim. You can choose the X-Line package to the EX trim that includes all-wheel drive and and a sunroof and enhances the appearance of the exterior. If you don't choose the X-Line EX package, you get the panoramic sunroof as part of the SX level. You also get a 360-degree camera and enhanced driver-assist features along with heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery. In the SX Prestige at the top of the line, the front seats are both heated and ventilated, and you'll also enjoy the addition of a 115-volt household-style power outlet and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. For further enhancements to the exterior, choose the X-Line SX-P package or the X-Pro for all-terrain tires wrapped around 17-inch wheels. Kia Sorento SX-Prestige X-Pro Kia The Kia Sorento starts with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. I prefer the upgraded power, starting at the EX trim, to 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. That extra 100 hp makes the difference when you need to pass or when navigating varied terrain during a camping adventure. Only the X-Pro gets the benefit of 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Plus, the maximum towing capacity is 4,000 pounds, which is 500 more than the rest of the trims can handle. While 4,000 pounds might not compare to the 7,500 pounds a larger SUV can tow, the Sorento still has plenty of power to tow a small trailer, a boat, or a couple of snowmobiles. Kia Sorento SX-Prestige X-Pro Kia The Kia Sorento's interior is comfortable and well executed at this price point. Sure, the materials are livable in the base levels, but the leather upholstery in the upper trims is impressively soft and plush. You'll get seating for seven as standard, or pare down to six with the optional captain's chairs in the second row. There's a total of 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, plenty to carry a family and carry-on luggage for a weekend trip. That stretches to 38.5 cubic feet if you fold down the third row, or you can meet in the middle with the 60/40-split folding bench seat. Just the two of you? Open up the entire 75.5 cubic feet with both rows folded down. Small storage is on the paltry side, so if you have a family who loves to snack, you might want to bring some containers or buy an after-market behind-the-seat organizer. Kia Sorento SX-Prestige X-Pro Kia Kia sprinkles USB ports generously throughout the cabin, so passengers can't complain about that. Apple CarPlay connected quickly for me, and I like that it has the wireless option. Music is a must for me, and I appreciated the upgraded 12-speaker Bose sound system in the SX Prestige X-Pro trim. Steering wheel audio controls are easy to use, and setting favorite stations is a breeze. I don't love the dash controls, which alternate between climate and audio; it's too easy to think you're adjusting the volume and you're actually turning up the heat. If you're in the market for a three-row SUV that can handle a variety of terrains, the Kia Sorento X-Pro is your best bet. But if your travels keep you on paved roads, you'll be just as happy in the EX.
