If you're looking for a family hauler that stands out, the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV and Toyota Sienna take very different design approaches. The Carnival leans into SUV styling with a bold front grille and a rugged stance, while the Sienna goes for a sleek, modern look with its hybrid-only setup.
Whether you prefer the tough, upscale vibe of the Carnival or the smooth, futuristic feel of the Sienna, both bring something unique to the table. Let’s dive into what sets them apart.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The 2025 Kia Carnival starts at $41,895 and goes up to $53,995.
- 2025 Toyota Sienna trims are priced from $40,635 to $57,595.
- The Carnival MPV is a bold minivan that mimics the look of an SUV.
Pricing and Value: 2025 Kia Carnival MPV vs. 2025 Toyota Sienna—Which One Offers More for Your Money?
The Carnival MPV is a brand new weapon in KIA’s arsenal, and a minivan with a decidedly SUV vibe. Its starting MSRPs are:
- LX: $37,895
- LXS: $39,895
- EX: $42,095
- SX: $46,995
- SX Prestige: $51,995
Changes took place to the Sienna’s interior only for ‘25. The Sienna receives an interior update for 2025. New materials and Advanced Rear Seat Reminder are now part of the picture, and the Sienna’s infotainment system a significant upgrade with a more powerful wireless charger and standard USB-C ports.
The Sienna’s starting MSRPs are:
- LE: $40,635
- XLE: $45,445
- XSE: $48,090
- Limited: $51,650
- Woodland: $51,875
- Platinum: $57,595
Performance and Efficiency: How the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV Stacks Up Against the Toyota Sienna
The Carnival MPV features a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder paired with 72-hp electric motor and front-wheel drive to generate 242 horsepower, slightly less than the gas-powered Carnival. A six-speed automatic is standard across all trims. The MPV gets 33 mpg combined, 34 mpg/city, and 31 mpg/highway.
The Sienna’s engine, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors, combines 245 horsepower. All-wheel drive is available for all trims—there’s a third electric motor to drive Sienna’s rear wheels. It gets 36 mpg/city and highway.
Exterior Styling: The Kia Carnival and Toyota Sienna’s Features
While the Sienna is modern and sleek, the Kia has created a minivan to bridge the gap between a family vehicle and rugged SUV. The gas-powered Carnival has been around since 2022, but the automaker added an even more rugged feel thanks to a wider grille and sculpted lighting.
Interior Space and Comfort: Which Minivan Offers More for Families?
The Carnival Hybrid's cabin is modern, welcoming, and spacious. A large center console features ample small-item storage. Buyers have the option of a dual-screen infotainment system, giving them easy access to the minivan’s connectivity controls.
An available panoramic sunroof sits over the second row, allowing the kids fresh air on any journey. The middle seat in the second row Hybrid can be removed for more space.
The Sienna’s interior is also spacious with plenty of storage throughout the cabin. Unfortunately, however, the second-row seats are not removable, but can slide about 25 inches forward.
Final Verdict: Should You Choose the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV or the 2025 Toyota Sienna?
When it comes down to it, the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV offers a more dynamic SUV-like design and is more affordable than the Toyota Sienna. The Carnival is the clear winner for those looking for great value without compromising on features. If you're interested in experiencing it for yourself, contact us today!