2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid

Van · 1.6L I4 Turbo Hybrid · FWD

80/100

AutoVault's overall score, weighted for what a van is actually for — performance, technology, comfort, reliability, safety and value.

Specifications

Engine	1.6L I4 Turbo Hybrid
Horsepower	242 hp
Torque	258 lb-ft
0–60 mph	7.5 sec
Top speed	115 mph
Drivetrain	FWD
Seats	7
Combined MPG	31 mpg (33 city / 30 hwy)
Range	530 miles
MSRP	$41,700
Body style	Van

The verdict

What's good

Sips fuel for such a big van
Quiet, smooth around-town driving
Spacious cabin with clever seat folding
Long warranty backs the new hybrid system

What's not

No all-wheel-drive option offered
Slower than the gas V6 version
New hybrid setup is unproven long-term
Costs more upfront than gas model

The engine

Smartstream

1.6L Turbo I4 Hybrid

A turbocharged four paired with an electric motor for smooth, torque-forward family-hauler acceleration, prioritizing seamless low-speed response and efficiency over engine drama.

Built on the Hyundai-Kia Smartstream G1.6 T-GDI, the same Gamma-derived turbo four used across the group; in hybrid form it's been produced since 2020 and shared between the Sportage, Sorento, Carnival, and Santa Fe.

Unlike many rivals' CVT-based hybrids, this Kia system mounts the electric motor in line with a conventional 6-speed automatic for a more traditional, geared driving feel.
The Carnival Hybrid pairs the small 1.6 turbo with a roughly 19-gallon tank for close to 600 miles of range, replacing a thirstier V6.
The underlying 1.6 turbo is the same CVVD-equipped Smartstream architecture that debuted Hyundai-Kia's continuously variable valve duration technology.

See the rest in AutoVault

The six sub-scores behind the 80 — performance, tech, comfort, reliability, safety and value
Market value today and year-by-year value history
All 5 trims with pricing
Studio photography — exterior, rear and interior
Side-by-side comparison with up to four cars

Open in AutoVault