Key Points
- Cars.com editors liked the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid’s hybrid powertrain, smooth driving experience, plentiful tech and interior accommodations.
- However, we found the hybrid powertrain could benefit from having more power and that the third row wasn’t particularly comfortable.
The Kia Carnival launched for the 2022 model year, replacing the Sedona and offering the relatively few remaining minivan buyers a stylish, well-equipped and attractively priced alternative to the Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna. For 2025, a freshened Carnival arrives bringing a new hybrid powertrain and other updates.
Related: 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid Review: Excellence in Efficiency
The hybrid powertrain brings big gains in fuel efficiency compared to the standard, more powerful V-6 engine. Other updates include revised front and rear styling, a refreshed interior and added tech features. What hasn’t changed, though, is that the Carnival remains a family-friendly choice that’s long on value, especially as a hybrid. (The Carnival continues for 2026 with no major changes.)
Cars.com’s West Coast Bureau Chief Conner Golden attended the launch event to get our first crack at the new Carnival, finding the updates largely a net positive. (Cars.com pays for its own lodging and travel when attending such manufacturer-sponsored events.) Tap the link above to read his expert review; for a quicker look, read on for four things we like about the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid and two things we do not.
What Do We Like About the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid?
1. Frugal Hybrid
The new hybrid powertrain adds to the Carnival’s value equation with dramatically increased fuel economy. Combining a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and 1.49-kilowatt-hour battery, the hybrid is good for an EPA-estimated 34/31/33 mpg city/highway/combined. That’s a big improvement over the 3.5-liter V-6, which is rated at 18/26/21 mpg.
2. Smooth Operator
With a total of 242 horsepower, the hybrid gives up about 45 hp compared to the V-6, but it gets a slight boost in torque to 271 pounds-feet. The result is a smooth, refined driving experience with enough grunt for around-town driving. Steering response is controlled and appropriate for the category, and easy-to-modulate regenerative brakes add to the relaxed feel. The Carnival uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission rather than a continuously variable automatic as found with many hybrids, which helps reduce noise levels.
3. Friendly Tech
A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system is standard, while a second 12.3-inch screen housing a configurable instrument cluster is available. Both are clear and easy to use, with straightforward menus and vivid graphics. There’s also a touch panel that does double duty and allows you to toggle between the climate and audio controls; it also shares physical controls for both. Passengers should find it easy to stay connected and powered up, too, with USB ports for all seating positions and an available three-prong power outlet.
4. Minivan Magic
The truth is, nothing beats a minivan for growing families or hauling cargo, and the Carnival is no exception even if it’s slightly smaller overall than a Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna. There’s plenty of room in the first and second rows, and even the third row is large enough for adults. The available second-row captain’s chairs with power leg rests add to the upscale ambiance and are complemented by the attractive white and navy leather upholstery in our top-trim SX test vehicle. Additionally, an optional panoramic moonroof lends an open, airy feel.
Read More About the Kia Carnival:
- How Much Is the 2026 Kia Carnival?
- How Do Car Seats Fit in a 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid?
- 2025 Kia Carnival Up Close: Now Hybrid in Another Way
- Minivan Crash Tests: Front-Seat Safety Improves, Backseat Safety Declines
- Research the Kia Carnival Hybrid
What Do We Dislike About the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid?
1. Hybrid Hiccups
As much as we appreciate the hybrid powertrain’s improved fuel economy, it’s important to note the loss in power compared to the V-6, particularly in a large vehicle intended to haul lots of people and gear. With only two people aboard, our tested Carnival Hybrid had just enough power left in reserve for merging and passing. Also, hypermilers will be disappointed to learn that unlike with many hybrids, the Carnival Hybrid cannot be driven any distance on electric power alone.
2. Third-Row Issues
The Carnival’s third row has adequate legroom for adults willing to make the climb, but accommodations are not without fault. The third row’s seat cushion is stiff and uneven, making it less desirable for adults on longer trips.
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