By Kia has officially taken the wraps off the much-anticipated Carnival facelift, showcasing a refreshed and sleek design for this family-friendly minivan. The updated model features a host of exterior and mechanical enhancements, making it an exciting prospect for those in search of a versatile people-mover. One of the most noticeable changes in the 2025 Carnival is the fully redesigned headlights and taillights. They now sport a distinct layout resembling the letter “T,” giving the Carnival a unique and eye-catching appearance. Additionally, the front grille comes with different patterns tailored to each trim level, offering a touch of individuality to each variant.
Kia has also introduced a new trim level called “Gravity,” characterized by dark metallic accents that enhance the minivan’s visual appeal. The front bumper has been revamped for a cleaner design by eliminating the separate fog lights. At the rear, the license plate indentation has been lowered on the tailgate, resulting in a smoother overall look. The tailgate handle has been cleverly concealed, contributing to the Carnival’s modern aesthetic. The Kia badge has been repositioned slightly lower on the rear light bar, a design choice consistent with the 2025 K5. Notably, the lower lights in the rear bumper appear narrower than before, while the metallic trim extends further than on the pre-facelift model.
While interior images are yet to be revealed, reports from Korea suggest that the Carnival will feature curved screens and fingerprint recognition technology, similar to the updated K5 sedan. However, one of the most significant changes is expected under the hood, with the Carnival likely to receive a hybrid powertrain. This powerplant would combine a turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, providing an electrified setup akin to the Sorento. Although specific output figures remain undisclosed, this hybrid system in the Sorento delivers a combined 227 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The full reveal of the 2025 Kia Carnival is expected in the coming weeks. While the Carnival has already entered the 2024 model year in the United States, this mid-cycle update is likely to be available with the 2025 model year, offering buyers an enhanced and stylish minivan option.
