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The 2026 Kia Carnival still checks all the boxes if you're looking for a minivan that doesn't feel like a minivan but gets the job done just the same. While Kia didn’t overhaul much this year, you now get both gas and hybrid options across a full trim lineup. Here are the latest features in the 2026 Carnival so far.
Key Takeaways
- There are no big changes for 2026, but the Carnival lineup now includes both gas and hybrid powertrains across multiple trims.
- The hybrid delivers better mileage, while the V6 gas engine offers more power and towing capacity.
- Interior space and tech remain top-notch, with up to eight seats, premium infotainment, and tons of cargo room.
2026 Kia Carnival Trims and Pricing
There’s a Carnival for just about every budget. The gas version comes in LX, LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige trims, starting at $38,245 and climbing to $52,525. The hybrid lineup skips the base LX but mirrors the rest, starting at $42,425 and topping out at $54,525 for the SX Prestige. Both versions come with front-wheel drive only. Prices are effective as of August 18, 2025.
Carnival Engine Options, Performance and Fuel Economy
The standard gas model uses a 3.5-liter V6 that cranks out 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It mates with an eight-speed automatic. The hybrid setup swaps in a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder paired with an electric motor, for a combined 242 horsepower.
If fuel efficiency is high on your list, the hybrid clearly wins here. It’s rated at 33 mpg combined—breaking down to 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The gas model delivers up to 21 mpg combined (18 city/26 highway), which is about average for a three-row van of this size.
Towing and Cargo Capability in the Kia Carnival
Need to tow a trailer or small boat? Stick with the gas version, which is rated for up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. On the cargo side, the Carnival offers 40.2 cubic feet behind the third row and a total of 145.1 cubic feet with all rows folded.
The Carnival Offers Comfortable and Flexible Seating Options
The Carnival's seating configurations are seven or eight passengers. Third-row legroom is solid at 35.6 inches, and even the second row offers adult-friendly space. The cabin also manages to feel upscale, with quality materials and clever design touches throughout.
Modern Tech and Entertainment in the 2026 Carnival
All Carnival models come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Base trims get a 4.2-inch instrument cluster and six speakers, while the EX adds wireless charging and eight speakers. The SX upgrades to a digital 12.3-inch cluster and adds power outlets, while the SX Prestige gets a 12-speaker Bose setup that sounds as good as it looks. There's also an optional $2,500 dual-screen rear entertainment system on the SX Prestige, which the kids will certainly love!
Should You Test Drive the 2026 Kia Carnival?
Of course you should! With both gas and hybrid options, premium features, and unmatched space, this minivan still nails what families want most. Whether you're hauling gear, passengers, or both, the Carnival delivers with less compromise and more comfort than just about anything else out there. Contact our Alan Jay Kia showroom today, so you are the first to know when it arrives!