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2026 Kia Carnival - The SUV-Inspired Minivan You Didn’t Know You Needed! Full Review & Trims

2026 Kia Carnival - This isn’t your typical minivan. It’s a bold, SUV-inspired people mover with luxury-level tech, advanced safety, and tons of flexibility for families. Let’s dive into what makes the 2026 Carnival stand out in the world of 3-row vehicles.

EXTERIOR DESIGN

The 2026 Kia Carnival continues to defy the minivan stereotype with aggressive, SUV-like styling:

  • Bold tiger-nose grille, sculpted LED headlights, and vertical DRLs
  • Optional two-tone paint and dark chrome trim for a premium look
  • Clean side profile with hidden sliding door tracks for a sleek SUV vibe
  • New wheel designs and exterior color choices like Panthera Metal, Snow White Pearl, and Silky Silver
  • Available roof rails, 19-inch wheels, and blacked-out accents on higher trims

This isn’t a minivan that blends in; the Carnival demands attention.

INTERIOR & TECH

Inside, the 2026 Carnival brings comfort and innovation for drivers and passengers alike:

  • Available dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays for cluster and infotainment
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (wired on larger screens)
  • Optional VIP Lounge Seating with leg extensions, ventilation, and heating in the second row
  • Power sliding doors and Smart Power Liftgate for easy access
  • Cabin can seat up to 8 passengers, with flexible configurations and up to 145.1 cu ft of cargo space with seats folded
  • Available rear-seat entertainment system, voice control, and ambient lighting

It’s a living room on wheels, perfect for road trips, carpools, or daily commutes.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

The 2026 Carnival is powered by a dependable and capable V6:

  • 3.5L V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque
  • Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Front-wheel drive is standard across all trims
  • Smooth ride quality with precise steering for confident driving
  • Estimated fuel economy: 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway

The Carnival isn’t a performance vehicle, but it delivers quiet, comfortable cruising and plenty of passing power.

SAFETY & DRIVER ASSISTANCE

Safety is where the Carnival really shines, especially for families:

  • Standard Kia Drive Wise safety suite includes:
    • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
    • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance
    • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
    • Lane Keeping Assist and Smart Cruise Control
  • Optional features:
    • 360-degree Surround View Monitor
    • Highway Driving Assist
    • Rear Occupant Alert with Ultrasonic Sensors
    • Safe Exit Assist and Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist

These features make the Carnival one of the safest family movers on the road.

TRIMS & PRICING

The 2026 Carnival comes in multiple trims to suit every family’s needs:

  1. LX – 8-passenger layout, power sliding doors, modern safety (~$34,500)
  2. LXS – Adds more driver assist tech, upgraded interior features (~$36,000)
  3. EX – Dual screens, wireless charging, power liftgate (~$39,500)
  4. SX – Bose® audio, ventilated seats, larger wheels (~$43,000)
  5. SX Prestige – VIP lounge seats, premium interior, full feature suite (~$47,000)

All trims come with Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, unmatched in the segment.

The 2026 Kia Carnival MPV is proof that minivans can be bold, stylish, and loaded with tech. It offers luxury-SUV space and refinement, with the everyday practicality families need. If you’re tired of boring vans and want something that stands out while delivering comfort, safety, and value, the Carnival is your move.

 

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