2025 Kia Carnival: A Facelift Inspired by EV9 and Sorento

It doesn’t seem like long ago that the fourth-generation Kia Carnival hit the market with a dramatic and futuristic design unlike any other MPV available at the time. However, it’s been almost four years, and Kia is already working on a facelift of the minivan with styling elements inspired by the all-electric EV9 and the recently updated 2024 Sorento.

Headlight and Grille Upgrades

The most obvious difference between the 2025 Carnival and the outgoing model will be the headlights. The new Carnival will feature headlights with a similar shape to those found on the new Sorento. These headlights consist of LED stripes running horizontally across the base of the hood and LED stripes running vertically down the flanks. The main headlamps are then positioned vertically. Kia’s designers have also created a new grille for the Carnival, giving it a refreshed and modern look.

Sneak Peek at the Styling Changes

We had our first opportunity to see the new Carnival testing under heavy camouflage earlier this year. Recently, Korean YouTuber channel Shorts Car stumbled across a camouflaged 2025 Carnival in a parking garage. This prototype has slightly less body cladding than some we’ve seen in the past, allowing us to get a decent look at some of the key styling changes. The side profile and overall shape of the new Carnival remain the same, but alterations continue at the rear where a set of new taillights are visible.

Interior Updates

While the exterior changes are more apparent, the interior updates are still somewhat of a mystery. Unfortunately, a black sheet covers the entire dashboard of this prototype, making it difficult to see any significant changes. However, we do expect the new Carnival to receive the same slim touchscreen display for important HVAC and media controls as found in other Kia models. Additionally, Kia has redesigned the center console and switched to a rotary gear selector surrounded by piano black plastic, adding a touch of sophistication to the cabin.

Powertrain Possibilities

Powertrain details for the 2025 Kia Carnival are yet to be confirmed. However, it is expected that the 3.5-liter V6 engine sold with the Carnival in the U.S. will continue to be offered. There is also speculation that an electrified version could be added to the lineup, possibly using the same basic 1.6-liter hybrid setup as either the Sorento Hybrid or Sorento Plug-In Hybrid. Kia has been making significant strides in electrification, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see an eco-friendly option for the new Carnival.

Conclusion

The 2025 Kia Carnival facelift is set to bring a fresh and modern look to the popular minivan. With styling cues borrowed from the EV9 and the updated Sorento, the new Carnival will undoubtedly turn heads on the road. While specific details about the interior and powertrain options are still under wraps, Kia’s commitment to innovation and design excellence suggests that the new Carnival will offer an enhanced driving experience for families and individuals alike. Stay tuned for more updates as Kia prepares to unveil the 2025 Carnival in the near future.