On the 22nd, Kia Motors America (KA) held a media test drive event for Asian press, including this newspaper, showcasing the 2025 Kia Carnival Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) Hybrid in Irvine. The test drive covered approximately 144 miles, with 74 miles from Kia’s Irvine headquarters to Bolero Restaurant in Temecula, and another 70 miles from the restaurant back to Irvine via Lakeland Village. The event allowed participants to experience the vehicle’s driving performance, interior features, and advanced driver assistance systems. The model provided was the top-tier SX Prestige.

The exterior design boasts a near-complete overhaul, giving it a futuristic feel. The front features a bold, sculpted grille flanked by intricate cube-style headlights and amber-colored "signature starmap lighting" daytime running lights (DRL). The rear has a sleek, clean design, with the license plate housing moved to the lower part of the tailgate, adding a refined touch.

Inside, the panoramic curved display, similar to those in the latest electric vehicles like the Ioniq 6 and EV9, immediately caught the eye. The 12.3-inch fully digital cluster provides a wealth of driving information, including hybrid performance and navigation, all accessible via touchscreen. For tech-savvy passengers, the interior features six standard USB-C ports, two power outlets, and two 115V inverters, perfect for charging multiple devices simultaneously.

In summary, the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid combines the benefits of an eco-friendly vehicle with the spaciousness required by families or drivers who prefer full-size SUVs. It offers robust SUV-like design with a cargo space comparable to a full-size van, boasting a best-in-class 145.1 cubic feet of storage. The 8-seater interior exceeded expectations, providing ample space even in the third row. Kia’s "Slide-Flex" seating in the 8-seater allows the second-row center seat to slide, making it more convenient for parents traveling with young children.

The 2025 Carnival Hybrid is powered by a 1.6-liter turbo hybrid engine paired with a 54kW motor. Combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it delivers 242 horsepower, 271 lb-ft of torque, and a towing capacity of 2,500 pounds. With a real-world fuel economy of 30 mpg, it’s as economical as it is powerful. Whether driving at low speeds, starting up, or cruising on the freeway, the Carnival offers a quiet and stable ride.

The vehicle also comes with an impressive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Activating the smart cruise control on the steering wheel allows the car to drive for about two minutes without needing to touch the wheel or gas pedal. The forward collision avoidance system (FCAA) is standard, detecting cars and pedestrians in front of the vehicle and intervening with braking when necessary. The Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), first introduced in the EV6, is also featured in the Carnival, offering distance maintenance, lane-keeping, and lane-changing assist on specific highways.

The Carnival HEV also comes equipped with "E-Handling," which enhances agility when changing lanes or entering and exiting curves. Combined with specialized suspension tuning, the vehicle easily handles rough surfaces with its "E-Ride" system. For emergency maneuvers, the "E-Handling Assist" provides additional stability. The 17-inch aerodynamic wheels further improve fuel efficiency in the hybrid model.

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid (HEV) is available in four trims: LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The gas engine models come in five trims: LX, LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. Prices range from $40,500 for the LXS to $52,600 for the SX Prestige.

— Written and photographed by Hongyong Park, Irvine

<Hongyong Park>