The Kia Carnival minivan, or “Life Utility Vehicle” as the company calls it, has been updated for 2025 and now includes an available hybrid powertrain.

The Carnival is expected at dealerships this spring, while the Carnival Hybrid is expected this summer.

“The 2025 Carnival elevates the standard in its segment, emphasizing both function and luxuriousness in harmony,” said David Sherrard, director of strategic planning at Kia Canada, in a news release. “Enhancements to this model are giving customers an expansive list of options to meet their unique needs, be it powertrain, seating configuration and technologies for the utmost convenience.”

Interior

Second-row VIP captain’s chairs are available, as it was in past years, or customers can opt for an eight-passenger option with removable second-row bench seating.

The Carnival also features a 12.3-inch navigation screen and a digital gauge cluster up to 12.3 inches.

A digital, connected dashboard is the central hub for critical vehicle information. There’s also an available head-up display.

Over-the-air capable technology will deliver the latest software to the vehicle, supporting updates to infotainment and navigation systems.

The Kia Connect system allows for starting the engine remotely, adjusting the climate controls and view the vehicle’s status from a phone. Digital Key 2.0 allows drivers to use their smartphone as a virtual car key.

Hybrid

The new hybrid powertrain that is available features a 1.6 L turbocharged engine with 242 hp and 271 lb.-ft. of torque connected to a six-speed automatic transmission. The driver motor has an output of 54 kW, the highest of all Kia hybrid vehicles.

The hybrid also has Remote Smart Parking Assist as an available option, helping drivers park the vehicle with the touch of a button, from inside or outside of the vehicle.