The 2025 Kia Carnival has a sleeker look and a hybrid model.

Kia Carnival gets hybrid powertrain option, updated looks and some new tech to compete in the minivan segment

Kia today officially unveiled the North American version of the 2025 Carnival at the Chicago Auto Show, following its debut in South Korea last fall. The minivan will go on sale this summer with more advanced technology, a refreshed look, and a new hybrid powertrain.

The most notable changes to the Fiesta are at the front, where the minivan aspires to be a crossover with a wider grille, less chrome trim, and amber daytime running lights (DRLs), bringing its design closer to the Sorento.

Under the hood, the Fiesta’s reliable 3.5-liter V6 GDI engine returns, producing 287 hp (214 kW / 290 PS) and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque, which, oddly, is three horses less than last year. While it’s an unusual change, it’s by no means the most meaningful one.

The real news comes with the hybrid powertrain option. This option is based on a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 54 kW electric motor and a six-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain will produce 242 hp (180 kW / 245 PS) and 271 lb-ft (367 Nm) of torque.

To improve efficiency, the car will feature aerodynamic 17-inch wheels, Eco/Smart modes, and regenerative braking. Unfortunately, the automaker has not yet revealed what fuel economy the hybrid powertrain will achieve.

Read: 2025 Kia Carnival launched in Korea, new 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid with 242 hp

Inside the vehicle, Kia has made some subtle changes. The Carnival still comes with (optional) dual 12.3-inch displays that serve as the instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen. However, the structure holding them has been simplified, as has the smaller display that helps the driver control the climate. Between the driver and passenger, the gearshift lever has been replaced by a knob.

Like all popular models, the Carnival also comes with a voice assistant that can open the windows or change the cabin temperature. Kia’s assistant cleverly changes the genre by distinguishing between first- and second-row passengers and responding to their requests accordingly, which is especially important for SX Prestige models equipped with the VIP Lounge Seat package.

Speaking of second-row passengers, they also get Kia’s new rear entertainment system. The system fits on a 14.6-inch display, allowing passengers to stream Full HD content from the hot hatch. They can also pair Bluetooth headphones to the system and use the screen to mirror content from external devices via an HDMI cable.

Owners can also open the vehicle via their smartphone using the Digital Key 2. Once the minivan is started, drivers will be assisted by the latest technology, including standard forward collision avoidance. Newly available features include intersection, oncoming lane change, lateral lane change and evasive steering assist, all of which can help avoid accidents.

The 2025 Kia Carnival will go on sale this summer. The standard Carnival will be available in LX, LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige trims, while the Carnival HEV will be available in LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige trims.