The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid introduces a new hybrid powertrain to the popular minivan lineup, blending fuel efficiency with family-friendly features. This review compiles insights from CarExpert, covering its performance, features, and practicality to help you decide if it's the right choice for your needs.
8.5/10
CarExplore ScoreOverall Comparative Rating
Pricing
The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid is positioned as a premium choice within the Carnival lineup, with hybrid-specific features that enhance its appeal to eco-conscious families.
| Model | Price before on-road costs |
|---|---|
| 2025 Kia Carnival GT-Line HEV | $76,210 |
Specs Overview
- Engine: 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder with 132 kW and 265 Nm
- Electric Motor: 54 kW/304 Nm integrated motor
- Combined Power: 180 kW and 366 Nm
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front-wheel drive (FWD)
- Fuel Efficiency: 5.8 L/100km (combined)
- Towing Capacity: 750 kg (unbraked), 1000 kg (braked)
Key Features
Standard Features - Carnival S:
- 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, adaptive cruise control
- 12.3-inch touchscreen media system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Eight-speaker stereo, Kia Connect with OTA updates, smart key, push-button start
- Safety: AEB, lane assist, rear occupant alert, trailer stability assist
Sport Adds:
- 18-inch alloy wheels, electric folding mirrors, dual-zone climate control
- Wireless phone charger, leather steering wheel, auto window defog
Sport+ Adds:
- Surround-view camera, power tailgate, blind-spot view monitor, heated front seats
- Two-way lumbar adjustment for driver, rear AEB, highway driving assist 2
GT-Line Lite Adds:
- 19-inch alloy wheels, LED interior lighting, dual sunroof, chrome styling elements
GT-Line Adds:
- Unique 19-inch wheels (Hybrid only), dual projection LED headlights, heated steering wheel
- Ventilated front seats, 12-speaker Bose sound system, digital interior mirror with camera feed
Performance and Practicality
The Carnival Hybrid offers a combined power output of 180 kW and 366 Nm, making it the most powerful hybrid in Kia's lineup. It includes a 72-litre fuel tank and a fuel economy rating of 5.8 L/100 km. However, the hybrid model has reduced towing capacity compared to petrol and diesel variants, with a maximum braked capacity of 1000 kg.
Cargo space is generous, with 627 litres available with all seats up and up to 2827 litres when the third row is folded flat. The hybrid's kerb weight is 2334 kg, with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 2980 kg, allowing for a permissible payload of 646 kg.
Safety and Servicing
While the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid lacks an ANCAP safety rating, it comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane assist, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and more.
Service intervals for the hybrid are every 12 months or 10,000 km, with an average service cost of $656 per visit over seven years, potentially offsetting some of the fuel savings. The vehicle also comes with seven years of roadside assistance.
Pros/Cons
Pros:
Fuel Efficiency: Impressive fuel economy at 5.8 L/100 km
Generous Features: Advanced tech and comfort features across all trims
Spacious Interior: Ample cargo capacity and family-friendly seating configurations
Cons:
No ANCAP Rating: Could be a concern for some buyers
Higher Service Costs: Shorter service intervals and higher costs for the hybrid model
Combined Reviewers’ Opinion
Overall, CarExpert found the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid to be a practical and powerful choice for families, with a highly efficient hybrid powertrain, ample cargo space, and a range of tech and safety features. However, the lack of an ANCAP safety rating and relatively high servicing costs might be concerns for some buyers.
Reviewer’s Roundup
CarExpert
Summary: CarExpert praises the Carnival Hybrid for its powerful hybrid powertrain, spacious interior, and comprehensive tech features. They highlight the car's practicality for families but caution that the lack of an ANCAP rating and higher servicing costs could be drawbacks.
Pros:
- Powerful hybrid engine
- Spacious and well-equipped interior
Cons:
- No ANCAP safety rating
- Higher servicing costs
Rating: 8.5/10
Summary
The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid blends efficiency and practicality with a powerful hybrid powertrain and a wealth of features. While it excels in space, tech, and comfort, the lack of an ANCAP safety rating and potentially high servicing costs are considerations for buyers.
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