2025 Kia Carnival front and side view

What’s new for the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV?

New technology, performance, and safety features 

The 2025 Kia Carnival MPV is setting a new standard for family-friendly vehicles with its blend of high-tech advancements, enhanced versatility, and impressive fuel efficiency. What’s new for the 2025 Kia Carnival MPV? Here at Matt Castrucci Kia in Dayton, OH, we’re thrilled to offer this exciting update on new technology, performance, and safety features. Here’s a look at what’s new and improved in the 2025 Kia Carnival. 



Enhanced Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) 

The 2025 Kia Carnival offers the next-generation Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC), an advanced operating system that makes driving easier and more intuitive. With faster processing and higher display quality, the ccNC system now features Quick Controls, allowing drivers to easily access commonly used settings with a simple swipe. Additionally, over-the-air (OTA) updates keep the software current without a visit to the dealership. 


Rear Cockpit Entertainment System for passengers 

Rear passengers can enjoy the newly available Connected Car Rear Cockpit (ccRC) Rear Entertainment System. This in-house-designed system includes dual 14.6-inch full-HD monitors, offering streaming capabilities from popular platforms. Passengers can connect Bluetooth headsets or link external devices via an HDMI port, providing options for everyone to enjoy their own entertainment. Future OTA updates mean this entertainment system is always evolving, with new content and features available over time. 


2025 Kia Carnival MPV front view on a road
2025 Kia Carnival MPV rear seats

Digital Key 2.0 for added convenience 

Digital Key 2.0 brings added convenience and security to the Carnival. With ultrawideband technology, compatible smartphones or NFC-enabled cards can now function as virtual keys. This feature lets drivers lock, unlock, and start the Carnival easily, and they can easily share digital keys with friends or family members via text message. 



A hybrid powertrain for increased efficiency 

For the first time, Kia introduces a hybrid option for the Carnival, featuring a 1.6-liter turbo-hybrid engine paired with a 54kW motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers a powerful 242 horsepower and 271 lb.-ft. of torque, along with an impressive EPA estimated 34 city/31 highway/33 combined MPG. With a towing capacity of up to 2,500 pounds, the Carnival Hybrid combines fuel efficiency and functionality to meet the needs of today’s families. 

Exclusive features for the Carnival Hybrid include: 

  • E-Vehicle Motion Control (E-VMC): This feature provides adjustable regenerative braking for enhanced efficiency. 
  • E-Handling: This feature improves responsiveness for smoother cornering. 
  • E-Ride and E-Evasive Handling Assist: These systems help manage comfort over bumpy roads and assist in emergency steering situations. 

Updated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) 

Key enhancements include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with new features like: 

  • Junction Crossing (FCA-JC) 
  • Lane-change Oncoming (FCA-LO) 
  • Lane-change Side (FCA-LS) 
  • Evasive Steering Assist (FCA-ESA) 

Additionally, the 2025 Carnival offers Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), which first appeared on the EV6. This system helps maintain safe distances, stay within lane markers, and even assists in lane changes on certain highways, adding convenience to long drives.