The new Kia Carnival will be launched in India in the coming months and it will be a radical departure compared to the previous model
The facelifted version of the Kia Carnival made its global debut late last year and it was introduced in the United States in early 2025. It will launch in the coming months in India and it has already been spotted testing multiple times. The South Korean auto major has now revealed prices for the latest Carnival in the US and compared to the old model, it sees a hike of around USD 3,000 (Rs. 2.50 lakh approximately).
The prices start at USD 36,500 (Rs. 30.50 lakh) for the base Carnival LX variant featuring a vertically positioned LED headlamp cluster, larger front grille section, tinted windows, 17-inch alloy wheels and power sliding rear doors amongst others. The cabin gains an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
It is accompanied by a six-speaker audio, triple zone automatic climate control, cloth seat upholstery, a 4.20-inch instrument cluster, etc. The premium MPV also boasts assistive tech like Forward Collision Avoidance, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Lane Following Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Safe Exit Assist and High Beam Assist.
The top-spec 2024 Kia Carnival SX Prestige starts at USD 50,600 (Rs. 42.29 lakh) and it comes with black finished 19-inch alloy wheels, powered tailgate, dual pane sunroof, sporty dark accents, etc. It is more upmarket with the presence of a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch console, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, leather and faux wooden trims, a digital rearview mirror, wireless charger, a 12-speaker Bose audio and much more.
One of the key highlights is the presence of VIP lounge seats in the second row with heating and ventilation alongside one-touch relaxation mode. The enhanced safety technology enables Highway Driving Assist 2, a Surround View Monitor, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor connected by an in-car camera and intercom system.
As for the performance, a 3.5L V6 engine produces 291 PS and 352 Nm, and is mated to an eight-speed AT. The more fuel efficient 1.6L turbo mill with twin e-motors and a 1.49 kWh Li-ion battery enable a combined power output of 245 PS and 367 Nm. The hybrid Carnival starts at USD 40,500 (Rs. 33.85 lakh) in the LXS trim (EX and SX are the other two trims).
In India, the fourth generation Carnival will make its way for the first time in the coming months. Thus, compared to the old version, which was discontinued last year, it is a significant upgrade both inside and out. However, the familiar 2.2L four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine will likely continue producing a maximum power output of 200 PS and 440 Nm, paired with an eight-speed AT. It will likely hit local assembly lines and will compete with mid- and high-end variants of the Toyota Innova Hycross.
