The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 33 mpg combined, while the base gas model offers 21 mpg combined. The Carnival Hybrid is priced at $2,000 more than a comparably equipped gas-only version. In comparison, the Toyota Sienna, equipped with a standard hybrid powertrain, leads the segment with 36 mpg combined.
This week, the EPA reported that the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid achieves an estimated 33 mpg combined. As Kia’s initial hybrid powertrain introduced in its minivan lineup, renamed from Sedona for the 2022 model year, it falls short of the Toyota Sienna’s impressive efficiency. The Sienna, featuring a standard hybrid system comprising a 245-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two motors, boasts a combined rating of 36 mpg. Additionally, Sienna offers an all-wheel drive option with a third motor—available for an extra $2,000—that still reaches 35 mpg combined.
The true leader in hybrid technology, Toyota has been refining its hybrid systems for nearly a quarter-century and provides hybrid variants across most of its popular models.
The new hybrid model of the 2025 Kia Carnival integrates a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 54-kW electric motor, delivering combined outputs of 242 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. Similar to the hybrid offerings found in the Kia Sorento and Sportage, this powertrain is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and operates solely with front-wheel drive. It features 17-inch wheels designed for aerodynamic efficiency, as well as active grille shutters.
The starting price for the 2025 Kia Carnival hybrid, which comes in the LXS grade, is $41,895, including a $1,395 destination charge. This is $2,000 more than the V-6 LXS variant.
The EPA has rated the hybrid at 34 mpg city, 31 highway, and a combined 33 mpg. The gasoline-powered Carnival continues with its standard 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This model comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission that powers only the front wheels, achieving fuel economy ratings of 18/26/21 mpg.
While the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna offer all-wheel drive options, the Pacifica plug-in hybrid adds the benefit of 32 miles of electric range, equating to about 82 mpg when utilizing both gas and electric power.
Currently, the Honda Odyssey stands out as the only minivan without a hybrid option. It is equipped with a 280-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, yielding 19/28/22 mpg.
The 2025 Carnival is available in five trim levels: LX, LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The hybrid powertrain can be found in every trim except the base LX model. All Carnival models come equipped with advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, active lane-keeping assistance, and blind-spot monitoring.
Convenience features include power sliding doors, a 12.3-inch touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside six USB ports. The vehicle is fitted with 18-inch wheels.
The Hybrid EX trim is priced at $44,095 and, like its gasoline counterpart, includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an in-cabin camera with intercom capabilities, and a voice recognition system that manages climate control, window adjustments, navigation, and media functions.
The Hybrid SX model is priced at $48,995, while the Hybrid SX Prestige represents the top tier at $53,995.
Orders for the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid minivan are now being accepted.
Image Source: joebarthez / Shutterstock