The much-anticipated 2025 Kia Carnival has finally hit the showrooms with its attractive price range and impressive features. The Carnival is available in five distinct trim levels, ranging from the value-oriented LX to the luxurious SX Prestige. With a starting price of $37,895 for the LX trim and a top price of $51,995 for the SX Prestige, there is a Kia Carnival model to suit every budget and preference.
The Carnival's true strength lies within. Its interior space dwarfs even the most spacious three-row SUVs, offering a level of family-friendly comfort that's truly impressive. While the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey still reign supreme in terms of outright volume, the Carnival offers a compelling alternative. Opt for the second-row lounge chairs and you'll find plush seating that's perfect for long road trips. However, the inability to remove these chairs limits the Carnival's cargo-hauling potential.
Kia, ever the innovator, decided to freshen up the Carnival's design for the 2025 model year. The updated grille, headlamps, taillamps, wheels, and lower body panels draw inspiration from the EV9 electric crossover, further blurring the lines between minivan and SUV. Inside, the center console has received a minor makeover, with a dedicated climate control panel now gracing the dashboard. The infotainment system has also been updated with a newer interface, including a more robust voice assistant that can tackle a wider range of tasks. A new lane-centering feature, coupled with adaptive cruise control, further enhances the Carnival's highway prowess.
Under the hood, the 2025 Kia Carnival is powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that delivers a healthy 287 horsepower, providing ample power for all driving situations. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth and responsive shifting. All-wheel drive is not available, as the Carnival is offered only as a front-wheel-drive model. This should not be a concern for most buyers, however, as the Carnival offers excellent ride and handling that is smooth when cruising while remaining composed in corners.
For those looking for greater fuel efficiency, Kia also offers the Carnival Hybrid, which comes with a 242-hp turbocharged hybrid powertrain. However, this model is reviewed separately.
The Carnival's interior is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear-seat passengers. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, with soft-touch surfaces and premium stitching. The Carnival's cabin is also well-appointed, with several standard features such as a large touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera.
The Carnival is also packed with safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a blind-spot monitor. These features, along with the Carnival's solid construction and advanced safety technologies, make it one of the safest vehicles in its class.
In conclusion, the 2025 Kia Carnival is an impressive vehicle that offers a well-balanced ride and handling, a spacious and comfortable cabin, and a long list of features. With its attractive price and five distinct trim levels, there is a Kia Carnival model to suit every budget and preference. The EX trim, in particular, offers an excellent balance between price and features, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a well-equipped and comfortable family vehicle. Whether you're looking for value, luxury, or a mix of both, the Kia Carnival has something for everyone.
Music by Robertothenice from Pixabay
Photographer Frank Markus Feb 08, 2024 By KIA