Drivers seeking an MPV now have an exciting new option: the facelifted Kia Carnival Hybrid.
Three years after its original fourth-generation debut, the new Carnival offers substantial upgrades in exterior styling, cabin features, and, most notably, its drivetrain.
Gone is the 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine of the original; you’ll instead find a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 54kW electric motor and a new 6-speed automatic transmission. This transition to a petrol-electric hybrid promises better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
The new turbo-hybrid powertrain delivers more punch than its predecessor, boasting a system output of 241bhp (up by 43bhp) and 366Nm of torque. This boost in power translates to a quicker 0-100 km/h sprint, achieved in just 9.3 seconds (1.4 seconds faster than the previous diesel model).Â
Kia also promises enhanced comfort and stability with its advanced hybrid technology. The new ‘E-Ride’ system uses the electric motor to reduce forward and backwards rocking motions. Meanwhile, the ‘E-Handling’ feature aids cornering performance by adjusting power delivery for improved stability.
With an official fuel consumption rate of 15.4 km/litre, this impressive efficiency is supported by the car’s aerodynamic updates. The new 19-inch Hybrid Electric Vehicle-specific rims, featuring a blocky pattern, have been optimised for better airflow.
Additionally, active air flaps on the lower bumper, similar to those on the fully electric Kia EV9, automatically adjust to reduce drag and improve fuel economy.
The Carnival Hybrid’s refreshed exterior maintains its ‘Grand Utility Vehicle’ identity, now with slimmer head and taillight signatures and a reshaped ‘Tiger Nose’ grille.
Despite a slight increase in height (now 1,785mm), it remains practical for navigating carparks with 1.8m height limits.
Inside, the Carnival Hybrid continues to shine with its generous space, particularly in the boot, which offers a substantial 627 litres even with all three rows of seats in place.
This space is complemented by an unchanged wheelbase of 3,090mm, ensuring ample room for passengers across all three rows.
Like the old model, the Carnival Hybrid comes in both 8-seater and 7-seater configurations. The latter, ideal for a more luxurious experience, features reclinable ‘Relaxation Seats’ in the second row – complete with footrests, ventilation, and multi-directional sliding capabilities.
The cabin now boasts a sophisticated three two-tone interior colour scheme (like the Navy/Misty Gray combination pictured above).
The upgraded dashboard integrates two 12.3-inch screens, an LCD touch panel for volume and climate controls, a head-up display, and a shift-by-wire rotary gear selector.
The Kia Carnival Hybrid is now available for purchase, starting at $269,999 (including COE) for the eight-seater variant.
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