2026 Kia Carnival: A Rising Star

Kia hit a home run by replacing the Sedona with the Carnival, whose popularity has only continued to grow since it hit the market. It looks great, offers an impressive level of equipment, and is among the most affordable models in its class. In short, it delivers a combination of features that make it very appealing — even more so than many SUVs currently available on the market.

Despite being a relatively new addition to Kia's lineup, the Carnival received a small update for 2025, featuring a more serious and modern-looking front end. Interior changes are more subtle but just as welcome. The Korean automaker's minivan also gets new interior and exterior finish options. For 2026, the main changes revolve around slight adjustments to the available option packages.

Trims and Pricing

The 2026 Kia Carnival has a starting price of $41,495 before freight and PDI fees, which brings the total to $44,566.50. That's quite reasonable considering the level of equipment and versatility this minivan offers. However, if you're looking for more features, there are several other versions available. After the base LX model, the LX+ trim adds features like a smart power tailgate and power sliding doors — both of which are hard to live without once you've tried them. The LX+ starts at $48,066.50. Next up are the EX and EX+ trims, priced at $50,966.50 and $52,966.50 respectively. For a more luxurious finish, the SX and SX+ trims are offered at $55,966.50 and $57,966.50.

Kia also offers a hybrid powertrain on the LX+, EX, SX, and SX+ trims, with prices ranging from $50,612.50 to $60,512.50.

Category and Competition

Just when we thought the minivan segment was fading away, it's experienced a bit of a resurgence in recent years. That's actually what motivated Volkswagen to launch the ID. Buzz. Granted, that's a very different — and much more expensive — vehicle than the Kia Carnival. The Korean automaker's minivan remains one of the most affordable options in its category. But that doesn't mean it offers less — quite the opposite, in fact.

Rivals: Chrysler Grand Caravan, Chrysler Pacifica, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Design and Technology

There are many reasons why I love the Kia Carnival, and its design is definitely at the top of the list. In my younger adult life, I often said I'd never drive a minivan, and at the time, the segment had little to offer besides practicality and affordability. Today, things have changed. The Carnival turns heads wherever it goes and still delivers on functionality. Kia has done an excellent job with the design, especially when it comes to the range of colors available for this minivan.

The cabin is versatile, comfortable, and undeniably upscale. The second-row reclining seats offer a relaxing experience you won't find elsewhere. The dashboard design is a bit plain, but that's in line with current market trends. The infotainment system is smooth and enjoyable to use, and the driver-assistance technologies are effective without being intrusive.

Performance

The 2026 Kia Carnival offers two powertrain options, starting with a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 engine that delivers 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. There's also a hybrid version, featuring a more complex setup that combines a 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a total output of 242 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enables the Carnival to achieve an average fuel consumption of just 6.8 L/100 km in the city and 7.5 L/100 km on the highway — excellent numbers for a vehicle of this size.

Weak Points

The Carnival lineup still lacks an all-wheel-drive version.

Strong Points

It's a practical, enjoyable, and very stylish minivan. The Kia Carnival offers excellent value for money, and the hybrid version is especially appealing.

Signature Element

The Kia Carnival is priced to appeal to most modern small and large families, without compromising on anything.

Final Word

The Kia Carnival isn't just interesting because it's a minivan. It offers so many features and options that you'll want it for those reasons alone. I continue to believe the Carnival is one of the best minivans currently available on the market.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier