Though the Kia Carnival entered the U.S. in 2022, the hybrid wasn’t introduced until the 2025 model year. The minivan segment is small, and the Carnival’s key rivals are the Toyota Sienna, the Chrysler Pacifica, and the Honda Odyssey. Since the Pacifica dropped its plug-in hybrid model after 2026, the only other hybrid minivan available for this model year is the Sienna. The 2027 Kia Carnival Hybrid has four trims: LXS, EX, SX, and SX Prestige.
2027 Kia Carnival Hybrid Pricing, Specs, and Release Date
- What’s New for the 2027 Kia Carnival Hybrid
- Design
- Powertrain
- Interior
- Technology
- Safety
- Pricing and Release Date
- Further Research
What’s New for the 2027 Kia Carnival Hybrid
Changes for 2027 are minimal because the Kia Carnival Hybrid was only introduced in 2025. New for this model year, second-row captain’s chairs are available on EX and SX trims, and there is a new Iceberg Green paint color. Additionally, the Dark Edition Package has been expanded to the EX trim. It’s also worth noting that the rear-seat entertainment system is now exclusively on the Hybrid SX Prestige models equipped with the optional VIP Lounge Seats.
Design
The Kia Carnival Hybrid sets itself apart in the design arena because it doesn’t immediately scream minivan. It has more SUV-like proportions and an athletic stance, and all models have standard distinctive LED daytime running lights that help the Carnival stand out in a crowd. Standard wheels are 17 inches, while 19-inch wheels in various finishes are available. The Dark Edition Package, available from the EX trim and standard on the SX Prestige, includes Dark Edition body styling and 19-inch alloy wheels with a gloss-black finish.
Powertrain
The 2027 Carnival Hybrid is equipped with Kia’s 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo hybrid powertrain that delivers 242 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. There is also a gas-only version of the Carnival available, which we cover separately. The Carnival Hybrid is front-wheel-drive only, so those looking for a hybrid with all-wheel drive will want to check out the Toyota Sienna. The EPA estimates that the Carnival Hybrid will get 34 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. It can tow up to 2,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Interior
Unlike the gas model, the 2027 Carnival Hybrid doesn’t have the base LX trim, so standard seating surfaces are synthetic leather, and it comes standard with eight-passenger seating. The SX Prestige has leather seats, while captain’s chairs are available starting from the EX trim. For those who want to get fancy, the SX Prestige offers an available rear-seat entertainment package and second-row VIP Lounge Seats with a comfort headrest, power leg extension, and heated and ventilated seats. The Carnival Hybrid does offer a dual power sunroof, but it's only available on the SX and SX Prestige trims. The 2027 Carnival Hybrid has 40.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row, and a maximum cargo capacity of 145.1 cubic feet. The third-row seats can be stowed under the floor.
Technology
Standard tech features include a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, second- and third-row USB ports, power-sliding rear doors, a Wi-Fi hotspot (subscription required), tri-zone automatic climate control, and a six-speaker audio system. Available features include a 12-speaker Bose audio system, rear-seat voice recognition, a wireless phone charger, a power tailgate, a digital rear-view mirror, a smart key, a dual 12.3-inch screen panoramic display, ambient lighting, heated-and-ventilated first and second rows, a head-up display, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a surround-view camera. Parent-friendly tech features such as an in-cabin camera and an intercom are found on the EX trim or higher.
