The South Korean automaker Kia has debuted the ‘Carnival HEV’, an updated version of its Carnival MPV with a new hybrid drivetrain. The model debuted globally at the ongoing Chicago Auto Show after being spotted for the first time in October of last year.Later this year, the facelifted Carnival HEV will be offered in US and other international markets. It’s unclear, though, if Kia will introduce the MPV in India.
Kia has formally unveiled the 2025 Carnival Hybrid, which combines state-of-the-art technology with improved performance. After the new generation Carnival made a successful global debut last year, Kia has now unveiled the Carnival HEV version. Expectations are high for Kia to introduce the new Carnival generation soon, even though its arrival in the Indian market is still uncertain, according to HT Auto.
Engine
It has a 72-bhp electric motor and a 1.6-liter turbo-hybrid engine for power. In contrast, the combined power output is about 242 bhp and 367 Nm of torque. Torque can also be applied instantly rather than gradually while waiting for the turbocharger to spool up thanks to the electric motor. The gearbox is an automatic six-speed unit in the interim.
Features
A 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that can be paired with an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a rotary shifter, two 14.6-inch entertainment screens for backseat passengers, a computerised rearview mirror system, Digital Key 2 for connecting smart devices, and a redesigned dashboard and centre console with fewer physical buttons are some of the features found inside the cabin.
Aerodynamic efficiency is improved by 17-inch wheels with an innovative design that improves airflow around the car. Moreover, paddle shifters with three selectable levels allow drivers to fine-tune the regenerative braking system for a customised driving experience. Special features like E-Handling, E-Ride, and E-Evasive Handling Assist are designed to improve emergency steering control, smooth out bumps, and increase vehicle responsiveness, respectively.
Along with evasive steering assist (FCA-ESA), the 2025 Carnival Hybrid features an upgraded suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Junction Crossing (FCA-JC), Lane-change Oncoming (FCA-LO), and Lane-change Side (FCA-LS). Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (N-SCC) enhance safety and convenience for both drivers and passengers.
Variants
Four trim levels will be offered for the Kia Carnival HEV: LSX, EX, SX, and SX Prestige. The LSX version comes in second place and the top trim level is the SX Prestige.
Pricing
The popular sub-compact SUV, the Kia Sonet, saw its official launch last month as the 2024 edition by Kia Motors India. The starting price of the entry-level HTE variant, which comes with a five-speed manual gearbox and a 1.2-liter petrol engine, is 8 lakh (ex-showroom).
